Bacon is a beloved food item that has been enjoyed for centuries. But did you know that bacon fat has been used for medicinal purposes?
From treating nosebleeds to luring out parasitic larvae, bacon fat has been used in various medical treatments.
In this article, we will explore the question of whether bacon fat can draw out infection. We will also look at other home remedies that have been used throughout history to treat boils and infections.
So, grab a slice of bacon and join us as we dive into the world of bacon fat and its potential healing properties.
Does Bacon Fat Draw Out Infection?
Bacon fat has been used as a home remedy for drawing out infection for many years. The high salt content of bacon is believed to induce swelling, which causes the blood vessels to constrict, slowing the flow of blood and helping clotting. This property makes bacon fat an effective tool for drawing out infection.
To use bacon fat to draw out infection, simply place a piece of bacon fat over the affected area and cover it with a bandage. Leave it on for several hours or overnight, and the infection should start to come to the surface.
While there is no scientific evidence to support the use of bacon fat for drawing out infection, many people swear by this home remedy. It is important to note that if the infection does not improve or gets worse, it is important to seek medical attention.
The History Of Using Bacon Fat For Medicinal Purposes
Bacon has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. In the early 1900s, bacon was used as a remedy for whooping cough. It was believed that the fat in bacon helped soothe the throat and ease coughing.
During World War I, bacon fat was used as a treatment for frostbite. The high fat content of bacon helped to insulate the skin and prevent further damage.
In the 1920s, bacon was used as a remedy for tuberculosis. It was believed that the high fat content of bacon helped to build up the strength of the patient and fight off the disease.
In more recent times, bacon has been used as a treatment for nosebleeds, scabies, and even to remove splinters. The high salt content of bacon is believed to induce swelling, which causes the blood vessels to constrict, slowing the flow of blood and helping clotting.
While there is no scientific evidence to support the use of bacon fat for medicinal purposes, it is clear that people have been using it for centuries to treat a variety of ailments. Whether it is effective or not remains to be seen, but one thing is certain – bacon will always hold a special place in our hearts (and our medicine cabinets).
How Bacon Fat Works To Draw Out Infection
Bacon fat works to draw out infection by creating a warm and moist environment that promotes healing. The high salt content in bacon fat helps to draw out excess fluid from the infected area, which can reduce swelling and inflammation. Additionally, the fat in bacon helps to soften and soothe the skin, making it easier for the infection to come to the surface.
When applied to the skin, bacon fat can also create a barrier that protects the affected area from further injury or rubbing. This can help to prevent the infection from spreading and can promote faster healing.
While bacon fat may not be a scientifically proven treatment for infection, it is a natural and low-cost option that many people find effective. However, it is important to note that not all infections are suitable for home remedies and may require medical attention. If you have a severe or persistent infection, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional before attempting any home remedies.
Scientific Evidence Supporting The Use Of Bacon Fat For Infections
Although there is no scientific research specifically on the use of bacon fat for drawing out infection, there are studies that suggest the potential benefits of using bacon fat as a base for topical treatments. One study from 1991 compared the effectiveness of a sulfur and salicylic acid cream using bacon fat as a base to a more modern cold cream version for treating scabies. While the cold cream was 100% effective and the bacon fat was only 88% effective, the authors noted that the bacon fat concoction was 238 times less expensive than the cheapest scabicidal medication in the US.
Another study from 2015 found that bacon fat could potentially be used to treat furuncular myiasis, an infection caused by insect larvae burrowing into human skin. The study suggested that placing a piece of raw bacon over the breathing hole of the larvae could entice them towards the bacon and block their air supply, making it easier to remove them from the skin. While this method is not widely used in medical practice, it does suggest that bacon fat may have some potential as a treatment for certain types of infections.
Other Home Remedies For Treating Boils And Infections
Apart from bacon fat, there are several other home remedies that can help in treating boils and infections. One such remedy is using cornmeal. The Aztecs used dried, powdered corn flour to create a poultice for boils, a remedy that is also used by the Cherokee Indians and the Appalachians. Cornmeal is absorptive, which makes it an effective treatment for boils. To make a cornmeal poultice, bring 1/2 cup of water to a boil in a pot and add cornmeal to make a thick paste. Apply the paste to the boil, cover it with a cloth, and repeat every one to two hours until the boil comes to a head and drains.
Another age-old treatment for boils is “cupping,” or applying suction to a boil by placing a cup or jar over the infected area. Boil a cup in a pot of water for a few minutes, then use tongs to take it out of the pot and let it cool down a bit before placing it over the boil. As the cup cools over the boil, the suction brings blood and circulation to the area. Blot and wash away any pus that comes out.
To treat boils and styes at home, dermatologists recommend making warm compresses. Soak a clean washcloth in hot water (not too hot, especially for children), then hold it to the affected area for 10 to 15 minutes. Do this three to four times daily until the boil or stye releases pus and heals. Never squeeze or pierce a boil or stye yourself as this can spread the infection.
Consider taking ibuprofen or acetaminophen if your boil or stye is painful. Make sure you read the directions on the packaging for the correct dose. Always keep the area clean and avoid touching or rubbing the boil or stye. If your boil bursts, cover it with a sterile bandage or gauze to prevent infection while it heals.
Most boils and styes heal on their own within one to three weeks. However, if the pain or swelling worsens after several days, another boil or stye appears, or you develop a fever or vision problems with the infection, see a board-certified dermatologist. While these home remedies may help ease pain and prevent infection from spreading, it is always important to seek medical attention if necessary.
Precautions And Risks Of Using Bacon Fat For Medicinal Purposes
It is important to exercise caution when using bacon fat for medicinal purposes. Bacon is a processed meat that often contains chemical preservatives, such as nitrates and nitrites, which can form cancer-causing compounds. The World Health Organization has classified bacon as a Group 1 carcinogen, which means it is known to cause cancer. Eating processed meats, including bacon, is linked to an increased risk of developing colon and stomach cancer, as well as prostate cancer, pancreatic cancer, and dying from all types of cancer.
While bacon fat itself does not contain high levels of sodium, excessive consumption of sodium can lead to increased blood pressure. It is important to monitor your sodium intake and limit your consumption of processed meats.
Additionally, while there are anecdotal reports of bacon fat being used to treat medical conditions such as nosebleeds, scabies, and infections, there is no scientific evidence to support these claims. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional before using bacon fat or any other home remedy for medicinal purposes.
