How to Get Rid of a Boil Fast: 16 Natural Remedies

Boils can be a real pain – both literally and figuratively. These painful, pus-filled bumps can pop up seemingly out of nowhere. It can cause discomfort, embarrassment, and disruption to your daily lives. While conventional treatments may provide relief, many people are turning to natural remedies to tackle boils more holistically and gently.

In this article, we’ll explore 16 effective natural remedies to help you get rid of a boil fast. Whether you’re dealing with a pesky boil on your skin or struggling with recurring boils, these time-tested natural remedies can help you find relief.

What Are Boils?

Boils (also called furuncles) are painful, pus-filled bumps that form under your skin when bacteria infect and inflame hair follicles. They typically start as red, tender spots that gradually fill with pus, becoming increasingly painful until they eventually rupture and drain.

When bacteria, usually Staphylococcus aureus, enter through a cut or break in your skin, they can infect a hair follicle, resulting in inflammation, redness, and the eventual formation of pus—your body’s natural response to fighting infection.

Common causes that might be affecting you include:

• Bacterial infections (particularly Staphylococcus aureus)
• Compromised immune system from stress or illness
• Poor hygiene or inability to clean properly
• Close contact with infected individuals
• Underlying health conditions like diabetes or immune disorders
• Friction or pressure on the skin from tight clothing
• Excessive sweating without proper cleansing
• Hormonal changes that affect skin condition

Recognizing Different Types of Boils

You might encounter several types of boils, each with distinct characteristics:

Single Furuncle: A standard boil that affects one hair follicle.

Carbuncle: A cluster of connected boils that form a more severe, deeper infection. These are more common if you have a weakened immune system.

Cystic Acne: Sometimes mistaken for boils, these deep, painful breakouts form when bacteria, oil, and dead skin cells become trapped in your pores.

Hidradenitis Suppurativa: A chronic condition causing recurrent boils in areas where your skin rubs together, such as armpits, groin, and under breasts.

16 Natural Remedies to Get Rid of a Boil

1. Warm Compresses: Your First Line of Defense

Applying warm, moist heat to your boils is one of the most effective natural treatments. Heat increases blood circulation to the affected area, bringing more infection-fighting white blood cells to combat bacteria. The warmth also helps soften your skin and encourages the boil to come to a head.

How you should apply it:

1. Soak a clean washcloth in warm (not hot) water
2. Gently press the cloth against your boil for 10-15 minutes
3. Repeat 3-4 times daily until the boil begins to drain

For optimal results, try to maintain a consistent temperature throughout the application. If the compress cools, rewarm it.

The consistent application of warm compresses can significantly reduce your healing time and provide immediate pain relief. Many people notice improvement within 24-48 hours of beginning this treatment.

2. Tea Tree Oil: Nature’s Antiseptic

Tea tree oil possesses powerful natural antibacterial and antiseptic properties. This makes it highly effective against the bacteria that cause boils.

Studies have shown that tea tree oil can effectively kill Staphylococcus aureus, the bacteria responsible for most boils. The oil penetrates your skin layers to deliver its antimicrobial compounds directly to the infection site. If you have sensitive skin, you might need to use a more diluted solution (1:15 ratio) to prevent irritation.

How you should use it:

1. Dilute tea tree oil with a carrier oil like coconut or olive oil (1 part tea tree oil to 9 parts carrier oil)
2. Apply the mixture directly to your boil using a cotton ball
3. Cover with a bandage and leave overnight
4. Rinse in the morning and repeat daily

3. Turmeric: Ancient Healing Spice

Turmeric contains curcumin, a compound with strong anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help fight your infection and reduce pain and swelling.

Internal use for your benefit:

1. Mix 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder with a glass of warm milk or water
2. Add honey to taste if desired
3. Drink twice daily

Topical application for direct relief:

1. Make a paste by mixing turmeric powder with water or coconut oil
2. Apply directly to your boil
3. Cover with a clean bandage
4. Leave for 1-2 hours before rinsing

Turmeric’s dual anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties make it especially valuable for treating your boils. Regular consumption may also boost your overall immune function, potentially preventing future boils.

For enhanced absorption, you can add a pinch of black pepper to turmeric drinks. Piperine (found in black pepper) increases curcumin bioavailability by up to 2000%.

4. Epsom Salt Soak: Drawing Out Infection

Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) helps draw out toxins and reduce inflammation while softening the skin around your boil.

How you should use it:

1. Dissolve 2 tablespoons of Epsom salt in warm water
2. Soak a clean washcloth in the solution
3. Apply as a compress to your affected area for 10-15 minutes
4. Repeat 3 times daily

For boils in areas that you can submerge (like hands or feet), consider a full soak for 15-20 minutes. The magnesium in Epsom salt also has natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the pain and swelling associated with your boil. The osmotic effect of the salt solution helps pull fluid and impurities from the infected area, potentially accelerating drainage.

5. Apple Cider Vinegar: pH-Balancing Treatment

The acetic acid in apple cider vinegar creates an environment where bacteria struggle to survive while helping to dry out your boil and promote healing.

How you should apply it:

1. Dilute raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar with equal parts water
2. Soak a cotton ball in the solution
3. Apply directly to your boil for 10-15 minutes
4. Repeat 3-4 times daily

The natural acidity helps fight infection while pulling out impurities from your boil. Look for organic, unfiltered apple cider vinegar with “the mother” (strands of proteins, enzymes, and friendly bacteria) for maximum benefit.

This remedy may cause a slight stinging sensation when first applied, but this typically subsides quickly. If irritation persists, you should dilute the solution further.

6. Garlic: Nature’s Antibiotic

Garlic contains allicin, a powerful antimicrobial compound that can help fight the bacteria causing your boils.

Topical application for direct treatment:

1. Crush a few fresh garlic cloves to create a paste
2. Apply directly to your boil
3. Cover with a bandage
4. Leave for 20-30 minutes before rinsing
5. Repeat 2-3 times daily

Internal consumption to boost your immune response: Adding fresh garlic to your diet can help strengthen your immune system and fight infection from within. Aim for 2-3 cloves daily, either raw or lightly cooked, to preserve the active compounds.

Allicin is released when garlic is crushed and exposed to air, so prepare your garlic paste immediately before application for maximum potency. The strong antimicrobial properties can penetrate your skin to target the infection, while the anti-inflammatory compounds help reduce pain and swelling.

7. Onion: Inflammation-Fighting Power

Like garlic, onions contain antimicrobial compounds that help fight your infection. They also contain quercetin, which has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce your pain and swelling.

How you should use it:

1. Cut a thick slice of onion
2. Heat it slightly (warm, not hot)
3. Apply directly to your boil and secure with a bandage
4. Leave for 1 hour
5. Repeat 2-3 times daily

The heat helps release the beneficial compounds in the onion while providing the benefits of a warm compress. The sulfur compounds in onions have natural antibacterial properties and can help draw fluid from your boil.

While the smell might be off-putting, the healing properties make this remedy worth considering, especially for stubborn boils.

8. Castor Oil: Deep-Penetrating Treatment

Castor oil has natural anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It penetrates deep into your skin, helping to draw out infection.

How you should apply it:

1. Warm a small amount of castor oil
2. Soak a cotton ball in the warm oil
3. Apply directly to your boil
4. Cover with a clean bandage
5. Leave overnight and rinse in the morning
6. Repeat daily until your boil drains

Castor oil is particularly effective for helping to bring your boils to a head. The ricinoleic acid in castor oil increases blood flow to the affected area, accelerating the healing process. For enhanced results, add a drop of tea tree oil to your castor oil application for additional antimicrobial benefits.

9. Neem Oil: Traditional Healing Solution

Neem oil has been used in traditional medicine for centuries due to its potent antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory properties that can address your boil effectively.

How you should use it:

1. Dilute neem oil with a carrier oil like coconut oil (1:1 ratio)
2. Apply to your affected area using a cotton ball
3. Leave for 30 minutes to an hour
4. Rinse with warm water
5. Repeat 2-3 times daily

Neem’s natural antimicrobial compounds help combat the bacteria causing your infection. Its fatty acids and vitamin E content also support skin healing and may help prevent scarring after your boil has drained.

Note: The distinct smell of neem is strong, but this can be partially masked by adding a drop of lavender or tea tree oil to your mixture.

10. Echinacea: Immune-Boosting Herb

Echinacea is known for its immune-boosting and infection-fighting properties. It can be used both internally and externally for treating your boils.

Internal use for systemic support: Drink echinacea tea 2-3 times daily or take echinacea supplements as directed on the packaging to boost your immune response.

Topical application for direct treatment:

1. Brew a strong cup of echinacea tea
2. Allow to cool slightly
3. Soak a clean cloth in the tea
4. Apply a compress to your boil for 15 minutes
5. Repeat 3 times daily

Echinacea contains compounds that inhibit bacterial growth and reduce inflammation. Regular consumption during an active infection may help your body fight off the bacteria more effectively. For best results, use pure echinacea or echinacea-based products from reputable sources.

11. Coconut Oil: Antimicrobial Moisturizer

Virgin coconut oil contains lauric acid, which has antimicrobial properties that can help fight the bacteria causing your boils.

How you should apply it:

1. Warm a small amount of coconut oil until liquid
2. Apply directly to your boil using a cotton ball
3. Cover with a bandage
4. Reapply 3-4 times daily

Coconut oil also moisturizes your skin, potentially reducing scarring after the boil heals. The medium-chain fatty acids in coconut oil can penetrate the bacterial cell walls, disrupting their growth.

For sensitive areas, coconut oil is particularly useful as it’s gentle while still providing antimicrobial benefits. Use unrefined, virgin coconut oil for maximum therapeutic properties.

12. Oregano Oil: Potent Bacterial Fighter

Oregano oil contains carvacrol and thymol, compounds with powerful antibacterial properties that can address your boil infection.

How you should use it:

1. Dilute 2-3 drops of oregano oil with 1 tablespoon of carrier oil (like olive or coconut oil)
2. Apply to your boil using a cotton swab
3. Cover with a bandage
4. Apply 2-3 times daily

Due to its potency, always dilute oregano oil and test on a small patch of skin first to check for sensitivity. Studies have shown oregano oil to be effective against antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria, making it particularly valuable for recurring or stubborn boils. The warming sensation you might feel is normal and indicates increased blood flow to the area.

13. Proper Nutrition: Healing from Within

Supporting your body’s natural healing abilities through nutrition can help fight your infection and prevent future boils.

Focus on adding these to your diet:

• Foods rich in vitamin C (citrus fruits, bell peppers, berries) to boost your collagen production and immune function
• Zinc-containing foods (pumpkin seeds, legumes, whole grains) to support tissue repair and immune response
• Probiotic-rich foods (yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut) to maintain healthy skin flora and gut health
• Plenty of clean water to flush toxins from your system
• Anti-inflammatory foods (turmeric, ginger, fatty fish) to reduce inflammation around your boil
• Vitamin A-rich foods (sweet potatoes, carrots, leafy greens) for skin health
• Protein sources to support tissue repair and immune function

Avoiding processed foods and excess sugar can also help support your immune function. These dietary changes not only help with current boils but can prevent future occurrences by strengthening your body’s natural defenses.

14. Goldenseal: Traditional Healing Root

Goldenseal contains berberine, a compound with antimicrobial properties that can help fight your infection.

How you should use it:

1. Make a paste using goldenseal powder and water
2. Apply directly to your boil
3. Cover with a clean bandage
4. Leave for several hours or overnight
5. Rinse and repeat daily

Goldenseal has been used in traditional medicine for centuries to treat skin infections. Its active compounds have been shown to inhibit bacterial growth and reduce inflammation.

You can find goldenseal in health food stores as a powder or in prepared salves. For internal support, goldenseal tea or supplements can be taken according to package directions, but should not be used long-term or during pregnancy.

15. Proper Hygiene Practices: Prevention is Key

While not a remedy itself, proper hygiene is crucial for both treating your existing boils and preventing new ones.

Essential practices you should follow:

• Wash your hands thoroughly and frequently, especially before touching affected areas
• Keep your affected area clean using mild soap and water, avoiding harsh cleansers that might irritate your skin
• Change your bandages regularly, disposing of used ones properly
• Wash your clothes, bedding, and towels in hot water and dry thoroughly
• Don’t share your personal items like towels or razors
• Avoid squeezing or popping your boils, which can spread infection
• Shower daily, paying special attention to areas where you tend to develop boils
• Use antibacterial soap if you’re prone to recurrent boils
• Wear loose-fitting, breathable clothing to reduce friction and sweat buildup

These practices help manage your current infection while creating an environment that discourages new boil formation.

16. Calendula: Gentle Healing Herb

Calendula has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help reduce your pain and fight infection.

How you should use it:

1. Apply calendula ointment or cream directly to your boil
2. Cover with a clean bandage
3. Reapply 2-3 times daily

Alternatively, make a calendula compress by brewing strong calendula tea and applying it to your boil using a clean cloth. Calendula has been shown to promote tissue healing and reduce inflammation. So it is especially useful once your boil has begun to drain. It’s gentle enough for sensitive skin and can help minimize scarring as your boil heals.

The Healing Process of Your Boil

Knowing what to expect as your boil heals can help you monitor progress and determine if your natural treatments are working:

Initial Stage: You’ll notice redness, swelling, and tenderness as the infection begins.

Development Stage: Your boil will become more painful and fill with pus, forming a visible “head.”

Drainage Stage: With proper treatment, your boil will eventually rupture and drain. This is a positive sign of healing.

Healing Stage: After drainage, your pain should subside significantly, and the area will gradually heal from the inside out.

Most boils follow this progression over 7-14 days with proper care. If your boil doesn’t progress through these stages or worsens, consult a healthcare provider.

When Should You See a Doctor?

Plus, you need to know when medical attention is necessary:

• If your boil is extremely painful or large (larger than 2 inches)
• If boils occur frequently or don’t heal within two weeks
• If you develop a fever alongside your boils
• If boils appear on your face, spine, or groin area
• If you have diabetes or a weakened immune system
• If redness spreads or you see red lines extending from the boil
• If you experience dizziness, confusion, or a rapid heartbeat
• If the pain suddenly worsens rather than improves
• If you’ve been treating a boil for several days with no improvement

Remember, seeking medical help isn’t a sign of failure—sometimes infections require professional treatment to prevent serious complications.