Chilblains: remedies and prevention to avoid them

Chilblains are a skin irritation caused by intense cold , especially humid cold, and perhaps by a poor predisposition to tolerate it. This is why the first natural remedy against this discomfort, which may not always be easy to manage, involves protection from the cold , especially for those most exposed to it.

Wear gloves , cover up well, avoid cold water, and eat plenty of foods containing vitamin D: these are the simple and essential rules for preventing chilblains. Then there are natural remedies that focus on treatment, and this is where massages and compresses come in. Always use products that aren't chemical-based.

Olive oil

Massage with olive oil to stimulate circulation in the affected areas of the body. Olive oil is highly recommended due to its hydrating and soothing properties. Apply gently, using a circular massage. The best time to do this is in the evening, before bed.

Sage

Chili pepper, especially cayenne pepper, can promote and improve circulation. Use the powdered form and apply it to affected areas of the body. Avoid using it on chapped or injured skin to avoid further irritation and inflammation.

Hot and cold water

Fill two basins: one with hot water and the other with cold water. Immerse your hands or feet in the hot basin for about 2-3 minutes, then in the cold basin for 30-40 seconds. Repeat this process about three times, for at least a week.

Decoction with walnut leaves

Pour the dried walnut leaves into about 500 ml of boiling water, leave to infuse for at least 10-15 minutes, filter and use the decoction to make warm compresses on the parts of the body affected by chilblains.

Lemon juice

Use it to massage the affected areas of the body. Lemon is a natural antiseptic and is considered one of the most effective remedies for chilblains. It should be used to moisturize the affected areas of the body, and the results should be quite rapid.

Potatoes and onions

Rub potato slices on your hands or feet: the starch can soothe irritation. The same goes for onion slices. In both cases, the positive effect is due to the enzymes and natural starches, which have a dual effect—soothing and decongestant—on the skin. The application should be allowed to act for about 30 minutes before rinsing with warm water.

Celery decoction

Use whole celery, including the roots. Boil it in 1 liter of water for about 45 minutes, turn off the heat, and as soon as the celery decoction is lukewarm, pour it gradually over the painful areas.

Aloe

Aloe -based creams or gels can be a valuable aid for chilblains: apply a layer several times a day to reduce inflammation. These creams should be applied with a gentle circular massage for 15-20 minutes. Rinse with warm water afterward, and the discomfort of chilblains will have been completely absorbed.

Honey

Prevention

• It's important to stay warm, warm your body and avoid walking as much as possible if chilblains have affected your feet, so as not to make the situation worse.
• Do not rub the affected areas and do not expose them to heat sources such as stoves and heating pads: the lesions could worsen.
• If symptoms are severe, contact your doctor immediately or contact your nearest emergency room. In some cases, this condition may also require hospitalization.
• The best prevention against chilblains is to keep warm. Not just your feet, but your head and hands too. Using hat, gloves and suitable socks.
• Physical activity, especially outdoors, is also an excellent way to prevent chilblains. This is because it improves blood circulation and the body responds better to the cold.
• Avoid to smoke: cigarettes, on the other hand, have a negative effect on circulation.
• Remember that, statistically, young, tall, and thin women are more susceptible to frostbite. They have little fat to protect their bodies from the cold.

Read also:

• How to protect your legs from the cold
• Why do hands get cold?
• Remedies for cracked hands from the cold
• How to take care of your feet