There is no specific diet that can directly help heal cellulitis, as it is a bacterial infection that requires antibiotic treatment to resolve. However, a healthy diet can support the overall healing process and boost the immune system, which can help the body fight off infection.
It is important to consume a balanced diet that includes a variety of nutrient-dense foods to support the healing process. Here are some examples of foods that may be beneficial:
- Fruits and vegetables: These foods are high in vitamins and antioxidants, which can help boost the immune system and promote healing.
- lean protein: Eating lean protein such as fish, chicken, turkey, lean beef or legumes can help repair and rebuild damaged tissues.
- Whole grains: Whole grains like brown rice, quinoa, and whole wheat bread provide energy and help repair damaged tissues.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in foods like fish, flaxseed, and chia seeds, omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation and promote healing.
- Probiotics: Foods such as yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and other fermented foods contain beneficial bacteria that can help to support the gut microbiome and boost the immune system.
It’s also important to stay hydrated and avoid foods that can be detrimental such as processed foods, refined sugar and saturated fats.
Herbs
There are no scientific studies showing that any herbs treat cellulitis, but the following herbs may help strengthen the immune system and kill bacteria on the skin. Never put any herbal preparations on an open wound without asking your doctor first. Be sure to tell your doctor about any herbs you use, because some can interfere with taking antibiotics.
- Echinacea ( Echinacea spp. ). Used to strengthen the immune system. It may also be applied to the skin as a gel or cream containing 15% juice of the herb to treat inflammatory skin conditions. People with autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, or those who take drugs to suppress their immune systems, should not take echinacea. Some people can be allergice to Echinacea.
- Pycnogenol ( Pinus pinaster ). An extract of the bark of a particular type of pine tree, helps promote skin health. People with autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, or those who take drugs to suppress their immune systems, should not take Pycnogenol. High doses of Pycnogenol may increase the risk of bleeding in certain conditions.
- Thyme ( Thymus vulgaris ). Thyme may have antibacterial and antifungal properties, although there is no evidence that it helps treat cellulitis specifically. Thyme can increase the risk of bleeding. Ask your doctor before taking thyme if you take blood-thinning medications, such as warfarin (Coumadin) or aspirin, and never take oil of thyme, which can be toxic.
- Gotu kola ( Centella asiatica ). In a few studies, gotu kola seems to help wounds heal and reduce risk of infection. Gotu kola interacts with a number of medications, so be sure to ask your doctor before taking it. DO NOT take gotu kola if you experience anxiety or have high blood pressure. Gotu kola can interact with many medications that are processed by the liver, and may raise the risk of liver damage. Gotu kola can also interact with sedative medications, including clonazepam (Klonopin), lorazepam (Ativan), phenobarbital (Donnatal), and zolpidem (Ambien). To be safe, ask your doctor before taking gotu kola.
It is also important to note that if you have underlying health conditions that may affect your ability to consume certain types of foods, you should talk to your healthcare provider before making any significant changes to your diet.