Burns are damage to the tissues that can result from exposure to extreme heat, chemicals, electricity or radiation. The degree of damage depends on the extension of the burns. It is a type of injury which can be highly variable in the terms of tissues, epidermal tissues, muscles, bones and blood vessels.

There are three types of burns:

• First degree

• Second degree &

• Third degree

The first degree represents the burns that damage only the outer layer of the skin. The second degree represents the burns that damage the outer layer and the layer beneath the skin. The third degree represents the damage to the deepest layer and the tissues underneath.

Symptoms

The symptoms of burns depend on the severity and extension of the burns. The burnt area may become swollen, tender and appear with blisters. The skin becomes charred and becomes red or black colored.

Burns can cause swelling, blistering and in more serious case, shock and even death.

Complications

The burnt skin is always prone to infection. So it is always important to check whether it is clean. The burnt area should be exposed to running water to reduce the intensity of the pain and also to see that it does not become susceptible to infection.

In case of severe and extensive burns, it may affect the bodily tissues and also the blood circulation, and in such case, it may require an emergency. The patient should be immediately hospitalized.

Prevention

One should always check to switch off the cylinder. The kids in the home should be prevented to go near the flammable items.

In case of festivals like Diwali, the elders should be around the children to prevent the risk of burns.

Treatment

Lotions, creams and sprays are used to provide temporary relief of pain due to minor burns.

In case of severe burns, the person requires hospitalization. In case of second and third degree burns and bacterial infection, oral antibiotics are also prescribed. In case of extensive burns and in case of a medical emergency, the burnt tissues are surgically removed and followed by grafting of skin. In case of sunburn there are lot many preventive measures to avoid it.

Ayurvedic treatment for burns

Ghee is an excellent and valuable remedy for burns. It can be used externally for inflammatory skin diseases and burns. Especially the Shatodhara ghrita is an excellent remedy for skin rashes and burns. This ghee is also easily absorbable by the skin.

However, for severe types of burns, where it is of third degree, it would not be helpful.

Aloe gel is also a valuable remedy for mild type of burns and skin inflammations.

Foods or supplement rich in proteins are also helpful in regaining the lost tissues.

Herbal pack for burns

• Amla Saar – 3 teaspoons with equal quantity of water after meals

• Kaishore guggulu – 2 tablets before meals with water

• Neem capsules – 2 capsules after meals with water