Burns and Scalds First Aid

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Herbal First Aid for Burns

This guide covers natural first aid for minor burns. Seek medical attention for severe burns or burns on face, hands, feet, or joints.

Burn Degrees

First degree: Red, no blisters, heals 3-5 days — treat at home

Second degree: Blisters, very painful — small areas at home

Third degree: White/brown/black — seek immediate medical help

Immediate First Aid

  1. Cool with running water 10-20 minutes (not ice)
  2. Do not break blisters
  3. Do not apply butter or oil to fresh burns
  4. Cover loosely with non-stick bandage

Herbal Remedies

Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis)

  • First choice for minor burns
  • Cut fresh leaf, apply gel directly
  • Reapply several times daily
  • Actions: Cooling, moisturizing, speeds healing

Lavender Essential Oil (Lavandula angustifolia)

  • Can apply 1-2 drops directly to small burns
  • Or dilute in aloe gel
  • Actions: Antimicrobial, reduces pain, prevents scarring

Calendula (Calendula officinalis)

  • Use in later healing stages
  • Apply salve once skin has closed
  • Excellent for preventing scarring

Raw Honey

  • Apply thin layer to cooled burn
  • Cover with bandage
  • Change 1-2 times daily
  • Actions: Antimicrobial, speeds healing

Plantain (Plantago major)

  • Crush fresh leaves for poultice
  • Cooling and soothing

Sunburn Care

  • Aloe vera gel — apply frequently
  • Cool oatmeal or chamomile baths
  • Hydrate well
  • Coconut oil — after initial heat passes

When to Seek Help

  • Burns larger than your palm
  • Burns on sensitive areas
  • Signs of infection
  • Chemical or electrical burns

Quick Reference

  • Immediately: Cool water only
  • After cooling: Aloe, lavender
  • Healing stage: Calendula, comfrey salve
  • Preventing scars: Vitamin E, calendula
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