Summertime bumps and scrapes are practically a give for kids—but the best way to treat minor cuts might not be so clear. “Cleaning wounds with plain soap and water is the simple most important thing,” says Keri Marshall, a naturopathic doctor specializing in pediatrics in Bethesda, Maryland.
After washing the area and removing any debris, it’s usually best to skip ointments and bandages, which can trap moisture and promote bacterial growth (use a bandage for wounds bleeding more heavily).
Once the wound begins to clot or scab, apply a natural healing ointment two to three times a day. Look for ones with herbs that promote healing, like the natural antibacterial goldenseal, or plantain, which helps reduce inflammation. As the wound heals, watch for any redness, warmth, or tenderness around the scan that can indicate infection.
Reprinted from KIWI Magazine