You may have developed a lump underneath your skin that sort of feels like a trapped, squishy marble. It does not cause pain and never moves from its common location which can be on the arms, upper thighs, neck, torso or armpits. It is important to immediately see a doctor if you have any kind of lump to make sure it’s not a serious development. However, once you’ve been checked, you may be told you have a lipoma (lie-poh-mah).
A lipoma is a benign (non threatening, non cancerous) fatty deposit that develops inside a thin fibrous capsule usually just under the skin. Most people leave their lipoma alone as it usually stays one size and does not pose a problem. Some choose to get it medically removed or reduced simply because it is an aesthetic inconvenience, yet many lipomas end up growing back.
However, there are some potential homemade salves for lipoma treatment as an alternative to invasive injections and/or surgery. These are topical applications that over a week or so may show a significant reduction or complete disappearance of your lipoma.
Honey and Flour
This salve is actually recommended by some dermatologists. All it takes is some raw honey and whole grain flour. Use these two ingredients mixed in equal parts as a paste and generously apply to your lipoma. Cover with a secure bandage (closed on all sides) and leave on for 36 hours. After this time, uncover, wash and repeat five more times (8 days).
The honey acts as a natural anti-inflammatory while at the same time draws out toxins and enhances circulation as well as lymph detox. Many of those who have tried this technique found their lipoma to significantly decrease and eventually dissipate.
The Sage Savior
Known for its unique ability to attract fat cells, sage just may help your lipoma. Taken from The Earthwise Herbal: A Complete Guide to Old World Medicinal Plants, (Wood, M. 2008) this salve works to draw fat tissue out of its fibrous capsule.
Grind one teaspoon of sage, add 2-3 tablespoons of neem, flaxseed oil or cooled green tea and mix into a paste. Apply to your lipoma daily until you see results.
Curcumin
Turmeric is a powerful herb that contains anti-inflammatory compounds known as curcumin.
According to the renowned Dr. Weil,
“Turmeric contains more than two dozen anti-inflammatory compounds, including six different COX-2-inhibitors (the COX-2 enzyme promotes pain, swelling and inflammation; inhibitors selectively block that enzyme).”
This salve works well when turmeric powder is mixed with organic virgin olive oil into a paste. Spread over the lipoma daily immediately covering with a bandage to avoid staining clothes with turmeric’s strong yellow orange hue.
Fatty Cyst Prevention
Sometimes a lipoma is called a fatty cyst. There is no known cause and symptoms are minimal other than, in some cases, being unsightly. Lipomas are not caused by being overweight however some believe they are hereditary and/or caused by a diet.
If your family is prone to developing lipomas chances are you may be as well. Either way, by practicing specific adjustments in your lifestyle there is a chance you could prevent developing or spreading lipomas.
Talk to your doctor if you have developed a lump. If it is a lipoma, these salves are a good natural remedy.