Chilblains or perniosis is a skin disorder that occurs in winter, causing red patches, itching, swelling and blisters on the fingers, toes, nose, and ears. It is often mistaken for frostbite because it occurs when an individual is exposed to cold weather conditions. Chilblains usually get better without treatment within 1-3 weeks, or as warm weather sets in, but it may also recur seasonally. Home remedies for chilblains can reduce annoying symptoms until it gets better with the weather.
10 Home Remedies to Relieve Chilblains
| Remedy |
Instruction |
| Cayenne Powder
|
Spread some cayenne powder over the swollen areas to enhance blood flow. However, do not apply cayenne powder if skin has ruptured. Cracked or open skin swellings may be treated with calendula ointment. |
| Turnip
|
Turnip is known to cure chilblains completely. Just soak affected areas for a few minutes in two liters of boiled water with finely chopped turnips. You can also rub freshly chopped turnips to the affected skin to heal the swelling. |
| Horseradish Root
|
These roots can be tied to the affected areas and left on for a few hours to heal the chilblains completely. |
| Onion Juice
|
Make some onion juice by crushing some onions and pressing it against a sieve. Apply the extracted juice to the affected skin. |
| Lemon Juice
|
Extract the juice of one-half lemon and rub this on affected fingers or toes. |
| Celery
|
Cook some celery stalks in half a liter of water for about half an hour. Soak affected areas in this infusion twice or thrice a day for best results. |
| Egg White Mixture
|
Combine equal amounts of egg white, flour, and honey and add some glycerin to the mixture. Apply as an ointment to affected parts. |
| Potato
|
Sprinkle some salt on a slice of potato and rub this on affected skin. |
| Black Peppercorn
|
Fry 50 g black peppercorn in 50 ml sesame oil. Use this to massage over affected areas. |
| Herb Oils
|
Peppermint, eucalyptus, and rosemary oils may be used to massage swollen parts. However, you must avoid applying these over abrasions. |
To learn how to relieve the symptoms of chilblains, see
Preventive Measures for Chilblains
1. Improve Diets
Chilblains may be caused by calcium deficiency. You can prevent this condition by including calcium-rich foods in the diet as well as those rich in healthy fatty acids such as nuts and seeds. Eat foods with plenty of vitamins for healthier skin.
2. Exercise
Exercise improves blood circulation to the extremities. Cardio exercises such as brisk walks, jogging, and bicycling increase blood circulation to the arms and feet especially during winter.
3. Quit Smoking
Cigarettes contain nicotine, which cause blood vessel constriction, making chilblains worse.
4. Keep Warm
The best way to prevent chilblains is to keep warm by limiting your exposure to low temperatures. Use layers of warm clothes. Keep the workplace and home comfortably warm. If you have to go outside in the cold, cover all body parts that may be exposed, such as the hands, feet, and face.
5. Take Care of the Feet
To ensure adequate circulation in the feet, avoid wearing tight-fitting shoes or boots. Moisturize the feet to prevent skin dryness and cracking. Diabetics should check their feet regularly because they are prone to infection, of which they may not be aware.