What Are the Treatments for a Boil or Carbuncle?

Boils, or carbuncles, are infections within the skin and hair follicles that form pus-filled blisters on the surface of the skin. They are ordinarily caused by Staphylococcus aureus bacteria and can spread to other parts of the body and other people who come into contact with the infectious pus within the boil. The pus consists of bacteria, white blood cells and other decaying materials that harbor infections and must be treated promptly to prevent the spread of MRSA, a penicillin tolerant form of staph.

Home Treatment

• Treating boils at home should only be done in cases when the carbuncles are small and not causing any signs of serious infection. Never pop a boil, as this can push the infectious pus deeper into your skin, causing the infection to spread to other parts of your body. This can also cause deep tissue boils to occur, which often require surgery. To treat a boil at home, use a warm compress on the affected areas until the boil comes to a head. A clean washrag that has been warmed in hot saltwater and thoroughly rung out works well. The carbuncle should burst on its own, and will often release a foul-smelling mixture of yellowish to brownish discharge and blood. Continue with the warm compress for 5 to 7 days until the boil doesn't drain anymore. Apply an antibiotic cream to the boils in between soaking.

Medical Treatment

• Deep tissue boils, which are actually cysts or abscesses, will need a doctor's attention. These occasionally clear up with antibiotics, but sometimes require surgical draining.

Herbal Treatment

• There are a variety of herbal and homeopathic treatments for boils and other skin related infections. Onion may be boiled, mashed and applied to the area to help heal the infection. Garlic may be grated and mixed with olive oil, applied to the boil and covered with a sterile bandage. Grated carrot mixed with wheat germ oil is also a commonly recommended home remedy.