There are several ways to promote faster wound healing, including home remedies, over-the-counter (OTC) antibacterial ointments, and prescription drugs. Here are some options:
-
Home remedies: Most small wounds heal naturally with time, but home remedies such as aloe vera, honey, or turmeric paste may speed up the healing process. Aloe vera contains a substance that is rich in both vitamins and minerals, while honey has antibacterial properties. Turmeric paste contains curcumin, which has antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties.
-
OTC antibacterial ointments: A person can treat a wound with several OTC antibacterial ointments, which can help prevent infections and promote faster healing. Examples include Neosporin, Polysporin, and Bacitracin.
-
Prescription drugs: Researchers have discovered that a combination of two drugs already approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for different applications reduces wound healing time by one-quarter and significantly decreases scar tissue in mice and rats. The drugs are AMD3100 and tacrolimus. If the findings hold true in future human studies, the dual treatment could speed skin healing in people with skin ulcers, extensive burns, surgical wounds, and battlefield injuries.
-
Ceramic blankets: Researchers at the UCF College of Medicine have discovered a new technology to accelerate wound-healing using specially designed ceramics wrapped in a blanket. The ceramic blankets absorb energy from a subject that is wounded and transmits that energy as a novel emission that increases wound healing at the cellular level.
-
Wound healing ointments: Elastoplast Wound Healing Ointment is an ointment that supports and speeds up the natural healing of minor superficial wounds like cuts, abrasions, and scratches as well as first and smaller second-degree burns. It creates a breathable film that protects the wound from external influences while preventing the wound from drying out, which is clinically proven to promote faster wound healing and reduce the risk of scarring.
It is important to note that some nutritional supplements and herbal remedies may help wounds heal faster, although not all have good scientific studies behind them. If you are having surgery, do not take any herbs or supplements without your doctors supervision. Lower the dose or stop use when your wound has healed.
