A cyst, what exactly is it?
Cysts are solid masses that form in the body and are filled with a variety of chemicals. There are numerous kinds. An epidermoid cyst, which develops directly under the skin, is the most typical form.
You could get aid from doctors or surgeons to get rid of this kind of cyst. One can only be successfully removed in this way. However, you can also test out some at-home treatments for your epidermoid cyst. These might assist in shrinking it, improving its look, or easing discomfort.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
✅ Some natural therapies can help with particular types or characteristics of cysts.
✅ Only a medical practitioner can remove a cyst in a way that has been shown to be effective.
✅ A cyst cannot be stopped from growing, however, it can be stopped from becoming infected.
✅ It’s time to see a doctor if your cyst exhibits symptoms of infection
Precautionary statement – Prior to talking about home cures, it’s crucial to go over a few key points:
- Never attempt to bust or remove a cyst at home. Infection risks are raised as a result. None of the methods on this page are known or proven to entirely eradicate cysts, and popping a cyst doesn’t guarantee that it will go forever. Science, however, indicates that they might assist in covert ways.
- Using these treatments properly carries little risk even though their efficacy has not yet been shown.
Keep in mind that you don’t always need to get your cyst removed if it isn’t bothering you.
Consult your doctor if the cyst bothers you cosmetically, becomes infected, hurts, or expands quickly.
Tea tree oil
Tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia) essential oil may, albeit indirectly, aid some cysts.
According to a reliable source of research, tea tree oil contains antibacterial properties. This means that while it is less potent and effective than synthetic substances, it still destroys bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other pathogens.
Ingrown hairs can lead to cysts in some cases. These develop when sebaceous gland infection results from improper hair follicle growth. As a result, a pus pocket is formed that may develop into a sebaceous cyst.
Tea tree oil has antibacterial properties that may assist it to combat bacterial infections brought on by ingrown hairs. It might lessen the likelihood of developing an ingrown hair cyst or lessen the severity of the cyst itself.
Be aware
In general, tea tree oil is not a known cyst treatment. Studies demonstrating its ability to treat or prevent cysts are currently lacking.
Additionally, tea tree oil is highly unlikely to treat all cyst types because not all cysts are brought on by ingrown hairs; yet, using it is risk-free and may help reduce the cyst.
How to use it.
- Use clean, warm, or hot water to dilute tea tree essential oil. Two to three drops per ounce of water constitute the dilution ratio.
- Use a clean towel to apply the mixture to the cyst directly multiple times per day.
Along with the aforementioned hot water compress therapy, tea tree oil applications are another option. Just mix the appropriate amount of essential oil into the hot water to dilute it.
Do not directly saturate the cyst or skin with undiluted tea tree essential oil. Burns, itchiness, or discomfort could result from this. Before using the oil topically, always dilute it.
Aloe vera
Aloe vera has been found to have both anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects. Both could be beneficial for cyst discomfort and inflammation.
Aloe vera may also aid in reducing or eliminating certain cysts brought on by bacteria or other infections.
Be aware
Aloe vera hasn’t been proven in trials to consistently clear cysts or lessen their visibility. Though further research is required to completely support this, it might be beneficial for reducing discomfort and pain.
How to use it.
Apply pure aloe vera gel, cream, or lotion as needed straight to an irritated or uncomfortable cyst, following the instructions on the packaging.
Select aloe goods only from reliable and trustworthy manufacturers. To ensure you are purchasing genuine aloe, it is advisable to review the contents list.
Witch hazel
A popular topical cleanser for acne is witch hazel. Its astringent and anti-inflammatory characteristics suggest that it might be able to treat acne.
Epidermoid cysts may also benefit from these qualities. The astringent tannins in witch hazel might aid in their reduction, and its anti-inflammatory properties might lessen pain.
Be aware
The ability of witch hazel to heal cysts has not yet been proven through empirical research. Getting rid of them won’t likely make a difference, but it might make you feel better.
How to use it.
- Apply witch hazel to a cotton ball.
- Use on the cyst region.
- Repeat as many times as you like during the day.
Witch hazel may cause responses in those with sensitive skin, however, this can be avoided by diluting witch hazel with water.
Turmeric
Although turmeric by itself won’t remove a cyst, the spice is known for its anti-inflammatory effects. A dependable source that could facilitate the healing process.
Be aware
Cysts cannot be cured with turmeric. Additionally, there is no assurance that it will stop or lessen swelling. Additionally, it might have no effect at all on some cyst forms.
How to use it.
Use fresh turmeric powder if at all possible.
- To make a paste, combine water and turmeric.
- Use it on the cyst as necessary.
Warning: Some people may experience skin responses with turmeric. Test it on a small area of skin other than your cyst before using it directly on your cyst.
A warm compress
The most suggested and efficient at-home treatment for cyst draining or cyst shrinkage is simple to heat.
This is how it goes: Heat may cause the cyst’s fluids to thin out. This may speed up the process of fluid drainage into the lymphatic system in the event of epidermoid cysts that are liquid-filled. This system participates in the body’s fluid balance maintenance and infection defense.
Be aware
Despite the fact that this cure is frequently advised by doctors and reliable sources, there are currently no studies proving its efficacy. Additionally, there is no research to back the science underlying its operation.
Additionally, only a medical practitioner can permanently eliminate cysts; this procedure does not. Although there is no certainty that this treatment will drain a cyst or lessen its visibility, it might be worth a shot.
How to use it.
- Boiling water should not be used; warm or hot water should be used.
- Permit skin contact only after the water has cooled to a heated but bearable temperature.
- Apply the water-dampened clean cloth to the cyst for 20 to 30 minutes.
- Repeat several times daily.
Apple cider vinegar
The natural cure, apple cider vinegar is another one that is suggested. Cysts might benefit from it to a limited degree.
There are no studies demonstrating that cysts can be removed or reduced using apple cider vinegar.
However, apple cider vinegar has been proven to be fully effective as an antibacterial, just like tea tree oil. Acetic acid is to blame for this. Although it might not be as effective against some types of microorganisms at lower concentrations, it is nevertheless crucial to dilute it before applying it to your skin.
Be aware
There is no guarantee that apple cider vinegar will be effective in treating all cysts, including those brought on by bacteria. Since there are so few health hazards, it would still be worthwhile to give it a shot.
How to use it.
- Combine water and apple cider vinegar in a 1:1 ratio.
- Several times daily, apply this dilution directly to the cyst.
The hot water compress home treatment can be combined with the application of apple cider vinegar. Just mix the appropriate amount of hot water with apple cider vinegar to dilute it.
Never apply apple cider vinegar to the skin undiluted. Acetic acids have the potential to hurt, irritate, or burn.
Castor oil
In a similar way to apple cider vinegar or tea tree oil, castor oil (Ricinis communis) may be beneficial for cysts.
Castor oil is antimicrobial, according to research. It is notably effective at eliminating skin-dwelling bacteria that can result in cysts and acne.
Be aware
Cysts are not curable with castor oil, nor has it been demonstrated to lessen their appearance.
The sorts of cysts created by bacteria are the only ones that are likely to benefit, however, even those types are not guaranteed to do so.
How to use it.
Make sure you buy castor oil that is completely pure. Buy only from reputable companies with a proven track record.
- Apply a drop of castor oil on the cyst with your finger.
- Use as much more products as necessary. It’s advised to do this several times every day.
If you have a castor oil allergy or are pregnant, stay away from taking castor oil. Be advised that consuming it can result in diarrhea.
Honey
Despite the paucity of studies, some advocate using honey to treat cysts. But a 2017 assessment of Trusted It contains antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, according to study sources.
Be aware
To say that honey is a cyst therapy or removal requires more research. It can help with discomfort and cysts brought on by germs.
How to use it.
One approach is to combine honey, preferably raw and natural, with additional antibacterial herbs and substances to make a poultice. The mixture is then applied to the cyst, and you leave it on all night.
Alternatively, test out this easier method:
- Apply a small amount of pure honey to the cyst.
- Allow the honey to remain on the cyst for a few hours; a longer period of time may increase its efficacy.
- Remove the honey with water and reapply as needed.
Some commonly asked questions
Can a cyst be stopped from developing?
A cyst cannot be stopped from growing, however, it can be stopped from becoming infected. Avoiding squeezing, popping, prodding, or cutting it open.
Can a cyst get sick and spread an infection?
Yes. Bacteria can enter a wound if a cyst is uncovered and exposed to the elements. This can result in an infection.
When should a cyst be treated by a doctor?
It’s time to see a doctor if your cyst exhibits symptoms of infection. Infection symptoms include redness, swelling, soreness, warmth to the touch, and pus. Cysts may disappear on their own depending on the cyst’s kind. However, the majority of epidermoid cysts disappear on their own and don’t need to be treated by a specialist.
In conclusion
Some natural therapies can help with particular types or characteristics of cysts. Reputable sources tend to favor hot water compresses.
Perform a skin patch test before applying topical natural remedies: To test for an allergic reaction, apply a little amount to your forearm and wait 24 hours. Even if they are uncommon, they could occur.
Stop using a home cure right once if it produces discomfort, inflammation, or any other strange symptoms. Discuss cyst treatment instead with your doctor.
Keep in mind that only a medical practitioner can remove a cyst in a way that has been shown to be effective.