Impetigo is an infection of the skin caused by either a streptococcal bacteria, or occasionally Staphylococcus aureus. The face is most commonly involved, but other exposed areas can be involved as well. Typically it involves children and is highly contagious. The characteristic appearance is one of multiple tiny pus-filled blisters which break readily, leading to a larger, more wide spread eruption forming the characteristic honey-colored crusts.. Itching is common and scratching may spread the infection.

Actions indicated for the processes behind this disease

Topical medications:

Anti-microbials are, of course, the key successful clearing of the infection, but work best topically.
Vulneraries may be helpful after the infection has cleared to ensure no discoloration or scarring of the skin occurs.
Anti-Puritics may, in theory, be helpful. In light of the infective organism being present on the skin, the itching may not be stopped until the infection is cleared.
Anti-Inflammatory herbs may be helpful but the same comments are relevant.

Alteratives, Anti-microbials, Lymphatic Tonics, Diuretics, Hepatics: all of these may be appropriate internally for similar reasons to those given for eczema. They will not replace topical treatments. Such internal support of general health, elimination and immune response is not always necessary, but is indicated in a generally `sickly' child.
Nervines may be called for if the child is experiencing much distress. However, it is usually the parents who benefit from taking the nervines!

Commiphora mol-mol
Hydrastis canadensis --- --- --- equal parts of tincture.

• Remove the crusts gently with a warm wet washcloth, as the bacteria live underneath the crusts and will continue to multiply until the crusts are removed.
• Apply the tincture or ointment.
• The crusts should be removed and the ointment applied several times a day. This is important because if the lesion becomes too big and is not controlled the child may develop systemic complications.