Burns are common skin wounds that can range from slightly irritating, to deep 3rd degree burns that penetrate to the subcutaneous tissue. Minor burns can be caused by the sun or radiation therapy, scalding liquids or steam, fire, chemicals (ex. acids, alkalis, hair dyes, petroleum products, fabric detergents), or electricity.
The skin consists of three layers, the epidermis, dermis, and hypodermis. The severity of the burn is determined by the conductivity of the skin, the duration of contact, and temperature of the source. The injury leads to the body’s immune system releasing cytokines that induce both local and systemic inflammation. A superficial burn affects only the epidermis and is characterized by pain, erythema without blisters, capillary refill with pressure. Second degree burns enter the dermis, either partially or completely and characteristically have blisters. Third degree burns penetrate all the way down to the hypodermis, sometimes going to the muscle or bone.
There are many nutrients to repair skin, namely omega 3 fatty acids, vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin K, lysine, zinc, b vitamins (especially biotin and niacin). Deficiencies of any of these nutrients can lead to poor wound healing and skin repair. Ensuring adequate intake of these nutrients will support the injured through the regeneration process. (more…)
A lozenge is a slow-dissolving and mucilaginous method of preparing herbs. They are beneficial for sore throats, mouth, and upper respiratory tract because they soothe and coat mucus membranes. Herbs that are ideal to use in lozenges are expectorant, sedative, pain relieving, and antimicrobial. Honey is soothing and coating to mucus membranes, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and nutritive (containing vitamins, minerals, and enzymes). Honey best extracts water-soluble constituents (tannins, vitamins and minerals, mucilages, alkaloid salts, vitamins, polysaccharides), plus small amounts of waxes and resins. When taken internally, honey calms inflamed GI tract so it’s very fitting to be added to a lozenge!
