Herbal Remedies

• Herbs have long been recognized as natural healers for many health issues, including skin wounds. Aloe vera is soothing to skin, and also has anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. Buy only organic aloe vera gel to keep in your first-aid kit, and apply it generously on broken skin.
  
  Comfrey comes from a leaf and has also been a long-time treatment for skin sores. It contains a compound called allantoin, which is a cell proliferant that speeds the healing of skin tissue. There has been some controversy about comfrey and its safety when used internally, so only use comfrey externally as a poultice on the affected area.
  
  Calendula has bright orange blossoms that have long been used for their anti-inflammatory, astringent and antiseptic qualities. Calendula has been found to promote the growth of new skin as well as to inhibit bleeding. It is a gentle remedy that you can use on children as well as on sensitive skin. To concoct a salve, boil 1 oz. of the dried flowers or leaves with 1 oz. of lard. You can find calendula at many natural-foods stores or online through an herbalist.
  
  

Donated and Lab-Created Skin

• Sometimes wounds are large and serious enough that they may require more than at-home treatments. One technique that is increasingly available involves the use of donated skin or lab-created skin, which can induce your own skin to grow. Skin donations can come from such sources as a pig's pancreas or the foreskin of a baby. The collagen from the donated skin grafts to your tissue, allowing new skin to begin to grow.
  
  If you have developed a wound due to periphery artery disease, pressure ulcers or diabetes, this technique may be an option. There are increasing numbers of doctors skilled at managing skin wounds who can advise you.
  
  

Helpful Tips

• Avoid bacteria getting into the wound before applying any at-home remedies. Wash the wound gently to remove any debris and pat it dry. Apply a topical antibacterial ointment, such as Neosporin, and a clean dressing or Band-Aid to your wound. Check it often---at least once a day---put a fresh bandage on it. If there are any signs of excessive redness or pus, see your doctor.