Burns and Herbs for Pets

Often enough we do not think about our furry friends getting burnt in the summer months and the tar on the roads and pavements can be very hot, also with fair animals like white cats and dogs they can get sun burned.

With light skin animals the same care needs to be taken as you would with your children, sun lotion should be applied to ears and the lighter parts of the body like top of nose.

If the pads become red and soar there are a few things you can do,?do not?apply butter or oil this will make the situation worse and can be a vet visit.

Second degree burns are more painful and can cause main tissue and nerve damage, herbs are a natural treatment for burns and can be used as a compress also cool down with a flannel wash and a suitable shampoo.

Herbs can fight infection, aid in the repair of the skin and help prevent the formation of scar tissue they contain vitamins A, C and E as well as the trace mineral zinc especially helpful while the body is recovering.

With first and second degree always take great self-care cold water or ice pack for at least ten minutes if the burn is more serious then medical attention will be needed.

So, what are some of the Natural Herbs that can be used?

North Americans use?Plantain?which gives a soothing effect and can be useful for treating insect bites.

Lavender?this is considered by many aromatherapists as one of the premier remedies for burns, it is antiseptic and analgesic and can be applied to skin without dilution also helps with scar tissue and has a calming effect which soothes the nerves after injury.?

Aloe Vera?gel relieves pain and inflammation and speeds the healing process this has been used since ancient times and modern research support the effectiveness of this natural herbal remedy to treat burns including frostbite. Aloe contains enzymes, carboxypeptidase and bradykininase which relieves pain reduces inflammation and decrease redness and swelling.

It is also important antibacterial and antifungal properties that help to prevent infection.

Gotu Kola known as Centella Asiatica?highly valued in Ayurvedic medicine for its ability to rejuvenate the skin speeds the healing process and helps prevent scarring.

Oregon Grape Root?known as Mahonia Aquifolium can be very helpful in treating burns as it contains berberine proven to protect against bacteria viruses and fungi. Scientific research has shown that plants containing berberine stimulate the immune system and fight infection, the Oregon grape root is a strong antioxidant and contains tannins that ease inflammation, irritation and itching of the skin.

Slippery Elm?known as Ulmus Fulva has been used for centuries by Native Americans as herbal treatment for burns, wounds, boils, ulcers and other skin inflammations, is a mucilaginous demulcent, diuretic and anti-inflammatory that may be used as a topical treatment for inflammatory skin conditions.

Comfrey?known as Symphytum Officinale used in Chinese Traditional Medicine for over 2000 years common uses for this is a natural treatment for burns, sprains, broken bones and other wounds it promotes rapid healing of both skin lesions and bone breaks.

Calendula?known as officinalis also known as marigold, this has been used for many centuries for treatment of burns and other skin inflammations. This is an antiseptic and anti-inflammatory helping to promote healing and stimulating the production of the outer skin cells also good for acute dermatitis, mild skin burns like sunburn and windburn prevents blisters and scar tissue be aware can cause allergic reactions.