The Top Ten Natural Scar Remedies

Many things can cause scars. Acne, accidents, illnesses, surgery…even some vaccinations leave scars behind. They are unsightly and can cause some serious problems under the right conditions. Daily viewing them can cause depression, and some scars can interfere with movement.

Addressing the scar is something that needs to be done. It’s not just for vanity; it can also be fore sanity and freedom of movement. What can you do, though? Quite a bit, actually.


1) Wound care: Taking care of a scar starts at the time of injury. Studies show that using antibiotics such as Neosporin can help reduce the appearance of scars. Natural antiseptics will help as well. Most wounds heal better if kept covered, though a few need air to heal faster. If the wound is gapping, it may need either stitches or steri-strips to hold it together. If this isn’t done, the scar will be much bigger and deeper.

2) Aloe Vera: Minor cuts, scrapes and burns respond well to the gel of this succulent. You can buy it already prepared or squeeze it out of the cactus like leaves. If you do use the plant itself, have some caution as it has sharp, spiny, cactus-like leaves.

3) Calendula: This plant is also called the pot marigold, and can be found in many flower gardens. It is actually a cousin to the garden marigold. The sap from the stems can be squeezed directly onto a wound, and the flowers can be made into an infusion. The plant will help disinfect the wound and speed healing.

4) Cucumber: Most spa patrons know that slices of this fruit can soothe tired eyes and reduce dark circles. A paste made of cucumber can be used as a mask for acne scars. Grind it up and rub it on the skin. Let it sit for twenty minutes, then rinse off. The juice or paste can be used on scars on other parts of the body.

5) Gotu Kola: This herb may reduce inflammation and encourage blood flow to the wound, scrape or burn. It can be used both internally and externally for this purpose. Internally, it may also help you stay calm while dealing with the injury. Be careful with it if you take medications that make your drowsy, as the herb can increase that effect.

6) Olive Oil: When I make oil extractions, the oil I use most frequently is extra virgin olive oil. It has healing properties of its own, and can help reduce inflammation. It may also help prevent infections, and it can help keep the skin moist.

7) Onion: While studies do not yet prove the usefulness of onion gel on scars, anecdotal evidence exists. In fact, in one study, the people who used onion gel felt that their scars had improved. Onions do have some antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. You can buy the gel, but many people use either a slice of onion or puree it and put that on the scar.

8) Tea Tree Oil: If you can stand the odor, tea tree oil could be useful. It can help keep the skin moisturized, reduce swelling and has antibacterial properties. It should not be used on an open wound, and should not be ingested, however.

9) Turmeric: While most people look to turmeric as a spice, a lot of studies are being done to learn its medicinal benefits. One of the many uses includes wound healing and scar reduction. It can be used both internally and externally. Make a paste and rub it on the scar.

10) Vitamin E: Many people swear by the use of Vitamin E oil on scars. While studies don’t yet support this use, the fact that it’s an oil can help keep skin moisturized, which is very important in reducing the appearance of scars.

source: buzzle.com