Home Remedies for Boils

ByJanis Updated

Boils are painful, pus-filled bumps that form when bacteria infect and inflame a hair follicle or oil gland. These skin infections are most common in areas that experience friction, sweating, or hair growth—such as the face, neck, armpits, shoulders, buttocks, and thighs.

While many boils resolve on their own, certain home remedies can help speed healing, reduce discomfort, and prevent complications. Understanding the signs of a boil, how to treat it at home, and when to seek medical attention can help you manage this common skin issue effectively and safely.

What Are Boils?

Boils, also called furuncles, begin as red, swollen lumps under the skin that feel tender or painful to the touch. Over a few days, the lump becomes larger, filled with pus, and develops a white or yellowish head. Eventually, the boil may rupture and drain on its own.

Common Characteristics

  • Red, swollen, and warm to the touch.
  • Pain that worsens as the boil grows.
  • Formation of a white or yellow “head”.
  • Drainage of pus or blood when the boil bursts.

In some cases, a group of boils cluster together to form a deeper, more severe infection known as a carbuncle. Carbuncles may cause fever, fatigue, or swollen lymph nodes, and they often need medical treatment.

What Causes Boils?

Boils are most often caused by Staphylococcus aureus, a type of bacteria that lives harmlessly on the skin but can enter through cuts, hair follicles, or sweat glands. Factors that increase the risk of developing boils include:

  • Poor hygiene
  • Shaving or friction from clothing
  • Excessive sweating
  • Diabetes or a weakened immune system
  • Close contact with someone who has a boil
  • Skin conditions like eczema or acne

At-Home Treatments for Boils

Most small boils can be treated at home. The goal is to encourage natural drainage, reduce pain, and prevent spreading. Below are some of the most effective home remedies:

1. Warm Compresses

Applying a warm compress is one of the best ways to encourage a boil to come to a head and drain.

How to Use

  • Soak a clean washcloth in warm (not hot) water.
  • Apply to the affected area for 15–20 minutes, 3–4 times a day.
  • Use a fresh cloth each time to avoid spreading bacteria.

Warmth increases blood flow to the area, promoting healing and bringing the infection to the surface.

2. Tea Tree Oil

Tea tree oil has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a popular remedy for skin infections.

How to Use

  • Mix a few drops of tea tree oil with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil.
  • Apply to the boil using a clean cotton swab 2–3 times a day.
  • Avoid using undiluted tea tree oil directly on the skin—it may cause irritation.

3. Turmeric Paste or Tea

Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial spice that may help the body fight infection and reduce swelling.

How to Use Topically

  • Mix turmeric powder with water or coconut oil to form a paste.
  • Apply to the boil and cover with a clean bandage.
  • Reapply twice daily until the boil heals.

How to Use Internally

  • Drink warm turmeric tea (1 teaspoon turmeric powder in hot water with lemon and honey) once or twice a day.

4. Garlic

Garlic has natural antibacterial compounds, such as allicin, which may help fight off the bacteria causing the boil.

How to Use

  • Crush a clove of garlic and mix with coconut oil.
  • Apply the mixture to the boil for 10–15 minutes.
  • Rinse off and repeat once daily.

Avoid using raw garlic directly on broken skin to prevent irritation or burns.

5. Epsom Salt Soak

Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) may help dry out the pus and encourage the boil to drain naturally.

How to Use

  • Dissolve Epsom salt in warm water and soak the affected area (if possible).
  • Alternatively, soak a washcloth in the solution and apply it as a compress.
  • Repeat several times per day.

Other Helpful Home Practices

  • Keep the area clean and covered with a sterile bandage to prevent contamination.
  • Avoid squeezing or popping a boil. This can worsen the infection and increase the risk of scarring.
  • Wash your hands regularly, especially after touching or treating the boil.
  • Launder bedding, towels, and clothes in hot water to reduce the spread of bacteria.

When to See a Doctor

While most boils heal within a week or two with home care, there are situations that call for medical attention. Seek medical help if:

  • The boil is larger than 2 inches across.
  • It lasts longer than 10 days without improvement.
  • Pain is severe or getting worse.
  • You have a fever or swollen lymph nodes.
  • Multiple boils form (possible carbuncle).
  • You have recurring boils.
  • There are signs of spreading infection (red streaks, warm skin, or pus that smells foul).

Your doctor may need to drain the boil in a sterile environment or prescribe antibiotics if the infection is deep or spreading.

Can Boils Be Prevented?

Preventive habits can reduce your risk of developing boils:

  • Practice good personal hygiene.
  • Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
  • Avoid sharing razors, towels, or clothing.
  • Treat any cuts, scrapes, or insect bites promptly.
  • Manage health conditions like diabetes.
  • Use antibacterial body wash if prone to recurrent infections.

Health Writer

Janis's areas of expertise include nutrition, exercise, stress management, and mental health. She is passionate about educating and empowering people to take control of their health and make positive changes that can last a lifetime. Janis believes that small, sustainable changes are the key to long-term success, and she works with her clients to develop personalized plans that fit their individual needs and lifestyles.