Home Remedies For Chilblains

Chilblains are actually a mild form of frostbite and are painful, itchy swellings that generally occur on the hands, feet or ears in response to cold weather. They are usually the result of poor circulation, which can be aggravated by smoking

Home remedies for Chilblains

Whatever you do, resist the urge to put your feet on a radiator or a hot water bottle. Get the circulation going by rubbing the feet briskly with a towel.

As long as the skin is not cut or cracked, dust cayenne powder on the chilblains to stimulate blood circulation. If the skin is broken, rub in calendula ointment to promote healing.

One method is to chop up 450g (1 lb) of turnips in their skins. Boil in three litres (about 5 pints) of water till soft. Soak the affected part in the water while it is still hot but bearable, rubbing pieces of turnip over the inflamed surfaces. The salts and essential oils present in the turnip act as an astringent while also improving circulation.

Try fresh horseradish root, bandaged into place. Lemon, garlic or onion juice rubbed on the chilblains can be very effective, or bandage a piece of pithy lemon peel, garlic or onion in place overnight.

Celery is also a good remedy for chilblains. Simmer a bunch of stalks in a litre (1-3/4 pints) of water for an hour and then soak your feet in a bowl of the mixture for an hour. Make it as hot as you can stand it and try it first thing in the morning and before going to bed.