Impetigo is a bacterial skin ailment that most frequently affects toddlers and young children. That said, individuals of any age can contract impetigo through direct contact with an infected person or contaminated objects.
Impetigo is caused by the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes. The infection produces a rash characterized by raised, swollen, itchy, and oozing red lesions. These sores commonly appear around the mouth and nose, though they can develop on other parts of the body as well.
Most instances of impetigo are mild and can be controlled with a topical antibiotic. However, without treatment, the infection may worsen.
Home remedies for impetigo
Home treatments can help ease symptoms and support healing. They should be used alongside antibiotic therapy, not as a replacement for prescribed medication.
Many of these home measures involve over-the-counter products, supplements, or plant extracts. These items are not evaluated or regulated by the FDA, so the exact composition and potency can vary between brands. Purchase products only from trustworthy sources.
1. Aloe vera (Aloe barbadensis)
Aloe vera, a succulent plant originally from Africa, is a common component in skin moisturizers. Its properties may also be useful for skin infections such as impetigo.
A 2015 study evaluated an aloe-containing cream combined with neem oil and showed antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus in laboratory tests — a common impetigo-causing bacterium.
Aloe may also relieve the dryness and itching associated with impetigo.
How to use: Fresh aloe gel from a plant leaf applied directly to the skin is ideal. Alternatively, use a topical product that contains a high concentration of aloe extract.
2. Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla/Chamaemelum nobile)
Chamomile appears in many skincare formulations. It’s used for moisturizing and to reduce inflammation. A 2011 review noted its effects against Staphylococcus, among other therapeutic properties.
A 2014 animal study found chamomile helped fight skin infections in mice. However, there’s currently no solid evidence proving chamomile treats skin infections in humans.
How to use: Brew chamomile tea and use it as a gentle skin rinse, or press a cooled, used chamomile tea bag onto affected sores.
3. Garlic (Allium sativum)
Garlic has a long history of use against bacterial, viral, and fungal infections.
Garlic extracts may inhibit both bacterial strains responsible for impetigo. A 2011 study reported lab activity against Staphylococcus, and another study that year cited effects on Streptococcus strains.
How to use: Place the sliced, cut side of garlic on impetigo lesions — it may sting. You can also crush garlic cloves and apply the juice topically. Incorporating garlic into your diet is beneficial as well.
Avoid applying garlic to young children’s skin, as it can cause irritation.
4. Ginger (Zingiber officinale)
Ginger is a traditional root spice with several health-related uses.
Recent research has investigated its antimicrobial capabilities. A 2012 study found certain ginger constituents active against Staphylococcus.
How to use: Apply a ginger slice, cut side down, on impetigo sores — it may sting. You can also extract ginger juice and make a poultice for topical application. Adding ginger to your meals is another option.
Do not use ginger on very young children, as it may irritate the skin.
5. Grapefruit seed (Citrus x paradisi)
Grapefruit seed extract may assist in managing impetigo. A 2011 study of grapefruit peel extract demonstrated antimicrobial action against Staphylococcus.
How to use: Grapefruit seed is sold as a liquid extract or tincture. Dilute it with water before applying it to sores — undiluted alcohol-based extracts can burn open wounds.
6. Eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus)
Eucalyptus is another herbal option for skin care, commonly available as an essential oil. A 2014 rat study showed antimicrobial effects against Staphylococcus, and a 2016 lab study found inhibitory activity on Streptococcus pyogenes.
How to use: Use eucalyptus oil only externally. This essential oil has been reported as toxic if ingested, so do not swallow it. Dilute a few drops of eucalyptus oil in water (about two to three drops per ounce) and use as a topical wash on impetigo lesions.
Properly diluted eucalyptus oil is generally considered safe for topical use, though rare cases of contact dermatitis have been reported.
Do not use eucalyptus oil on very young children, as it may trigger skin irritation or dermatitis.
7. Neem (Azadiractha indica)
Neem is a tree native to India, related to mahogany. Oil extracted from neem is a well-known traditional skin remedy.
Neem is commonly applied to insect-related skin issues such as those caused by lice or fleas. It also appears effective against certain bacteria, including those that cause impetigo.
A 2011 study reported activity against Staphylococcus. A 2013 study showed similar effects against both bacteria responsible for impetigo.
How to use: Follow the manufacturer’s directions on the neem oil product label.
8. Honey
Honey, a sweet natural substance, has a long history of medicinal use, including antibacterial applications. Modern research supports some of these traditional uses.
A 2016 study highlighted honey’s antimicrobial activity, suggesting potential benefit for skin infections like impetigo, though human trials are lacking.
A 2012 lab study showed honey was effective against both Staphylococcus and Streptococcus.
How to use: Manuka honey and raw honey are often recommended. Apply a small amount directly to impetigo sores, leave it on for about 20 minutes, then rinse with warm water.
9. Tea tree (Melaleuca alternifolia)
Tea tree oil is among the most commonly used natural topical treatments today.
It has been proposed as a remedy for impetigo and other bacterial skin conditions in a comprehensive 2017 dissertation review.
How to use: Tea tree oil is typically sold as an essential oil. Dilute a few drops in water (two to three drops per ounce) and use the solution as a topical wash on affected areas.
Avoid using tea tree oil on infants and very young children, as it can cause dermatitis or skin irritation.
10. Turmeric (Curcuma longa)
Turmeric is widely known as a culinary spice from Asia, but it also has a history of anti-inflammatory use and displays antimicrobial effects, including activity against bacteria that cause impetigo.
A 2016 study found turmeric effective against both Staphylococcus and Streptococcus, outperforming certain other herbs.
How to use: Make a paste from turmeric powder and water and apply it as a poultice to impetigo lesions.
11. Usnea (Usnea barbata)
Usnea, a type of lichen, is less familiar but can be used topically for impetigo. Usnea extracts and tinctures are commercially available.
Research published in 2012 and 2013 reported activity of usnea against Staphylococcus and Streptococcus.
How to use: Combine a few drops of usnea tincture or extract with water and apply it topically to impetigo sores. Undiluted extracts can sting open wounds.
When to seek medical help
Although impetigo is seldom life-threatening, it can spread, become severe, or lead to complications if not treated appropriately with antibiotics.
These home remedies may provide symptom relief and help healing, but they should be used alongside antibiotics rather than instead of them — especially in children and infants. Follow your doctor’s guidance carefully.
Consult your healthcare provider before starting any home remedy. If your symptoms worsen or you develop additional skin irritation, stop the remedy and contact your doctor.
If signs of cellulitis or kidney issues appear, seek medical attention promptly. Though uncommon, serious complications from impetigo can occur. You should also see your doctor if impetigo progresses to ecthyma — deeper, pus-filled sores that can be painful.
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