Natural Remedies For Diabetic Wounds And Cuts

If you have diabetes, you probably already know that even the smallest cut, wound, or skin abrasion needs a lot of care and close monitoring. For various reasons, such as a weakened immune system, poor circulation, and nerve damage (neuropathy), cuts and wounds tend to heal much slower in most people living with diabetes.

Complications associated with the disease, for instance, neuropathy, increase the chance of infections in minor cuts or wounds. If not well taken care of, a small injury or cut can quickly turn into a serious situation that can be limb or life-threatening.  

For instance, a small cut on your foot can become infected and turn into a large foot ulcer, which may ultimately result in foot amputation. Research shows that diabetic foot ulcers affect about 15% of people living with diabetes, some of whom end up losing a limb. However, in the unfortunate event that you have a diabetic foot ulcer, a foot surgeon may be able to help you prevent amputation. 

Note, however, that while a minor cut or wound may be challenging to deal with when you have diabetes, with a little patience and some knowledge on how to take care of it, you can treat it and prevent infection. Below, we list some remedies for diabetic wounds and cuts to help you prevent serious complications until you can see your doctor.  

Remedies for Diabetic Wounds and Cuts

Manage Blood Sugar Level

Keeping blood sugar levels in check will help reduce the risk of infections from small cuts or wounds. High glucose levels can delay would healing and increase the risk of infections significantly. So be sure to eat diabetic-friendly foods (healthy meals), and don’t forget to take insulin and medicine as directed by a physician. You should also check your post-meal glucose levels several times every day. See your doctor immediately you notice a hike. 

Check and Clean Wounds/Cuts

Before starting any home treatment, clean cuts or wounds thoroughly. Cleaning with running water will remove as much bacteria, debris and dirt as possible and help reduce the risk of infections. Use cool water and mild soap when washing the affected area. Pat the area gently with a clean towel and then apply a good antiseptic cream. Cover the area with a bandage or sterile dressing. Be sure to change the dressing frequently, say, 2-3 times a day. When changing the dressing, check for any signs of infection. 

Apply Honey

Honey has several antioxidants that have been shown to accelerate wound healing. They stimulate tissue angiogenesis, regeneration, and fibroblast growth. The osmotic effects of pure honey have also been shown to keep wounds moist and clean. Honey also has anti-inflammatory features that reduce swelling and pain. Clean your cut and wound and carefully rub honey on it then dress the area. 

Use Turmeric

Turmeric is naturally an antibiotic and antiseptic agent. It is commonly used to treat minor cuts and wounds and prevent infections among diabetic people. Studies have shown that curcumin, a compound present in Turmeric, improves the process of wound healing by decreasing reactive-oxygen species and modulating collagen. If your cut or wound is bleeding, apply pure turmeric powder directly on it. To promote healing, mix half a tablespoon of turmeric powder with coconut oil and apply it on the affected area for 2-3 days. 

Use Aloe Vera

This is another great home remedy for wounds and cuts. It had anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and soothing properties. Aloe Vera gel also has phytochemicals that ease pain, increase moisture content, reduce inflammation, and ultimately promote healing. Extract Aloe Vera gel from a fresh leaf and apply it directly to the affected area. Allow it to dry and clean the area with some warm water. Pat the area dry with a clean towel and dress the area, Repeat several times daily until the wound heals. 

Coconut and Olive Oils

Coconut oil is very effective for healing wounds. It has amazing anti-inflammatory, moisturizing, and antibacterial properties. Olive oil also has these properties and packs a lot of omega-3 fatty acids, which are also excellent in reducing inflammation and speeding up wound healing. Studies have specifically pointed out olive oil’s palmitoleic and oleic acids as responsible for the wound-healing effects. Apply virgin coconut oil on your cut or wound and bandage it. Reapply the oil 2-3 times daily for several days until your wound heals.

Take your insulin and medicine as required and keep a keen eye on your sugar levels. This, combined with one or two of these remedies should help your wound to heal faster and prevent infection.

*Statements in this article reflect the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views or any implied endorsement of Wellness.com or its agents.