Burns and Scalds

At the outset, we would like to clarify that only the most minor and superficial burns can be treated at home using homoeopathic medicines. Burns that are deep or that Involve a large surface of the body are complex and serious medico-surgical problems that require urgent and skilled treatment in a modern hospital.

There are three great dangers in burns: the first is that of shock, both physical and mental; the second is that of serum-loss, enormous quantities of fluid;being poured out from the burnt surface, depleting the body of water salts and proteins; the third is that of sepsis which has caused many fatalities after apparent initial recovery.

Shock is inevitable following burns. A dose of Arnica­200 should be immediately given to counter shock. This may be followed by a dose of Aconite 200 if the victim seems unduly frightened. Thereafter, Cantharis 30 or Causticum 30 should be given every 10-15 minutes to relieve pain. The medicine should be discontinued once considerable pain-relief has been obtained but can be restarted if pain returns.

As external treatment, the affected part should be kept immersed in a bowl/bucket containing cold water to which are added a few drops of Urtica urens or Hypericum tincture. If that is not possible, cold compresses of Urtica urens or Hypericum lotion should be applied repeatedly till burning and pains lessen.

The person should be encouraged to consume a lot of fluids (e.g., water with sugar and salt) to replenish lost fluids.

Finally, the affected area should be dressed, using Urtica urens or Hypericum lotion, taking aseptic precautions. Blisters, if any, should never be punctured or broken because they afford a sterile covering to the affected area.