A general question about wound care and healing of minor skin abrasion?

a minor skin abrasion is slow to heal. i am male, 54 years old, ex-smoker. not a diabetic

There are a host of issues that can cause slow wound healing (diabetes you have already ruled out). High stress, protein deficiency or malabsorption and enzyme deficiency are a few. Poor circulation from smoking is another. However, slow wound healing can also be an indication of zinc deficiency. You may also have thinning hair, acne, an enlarged prostate and other symptoms associated with deficiency of this important mineral. The best synthetic supplement is effervescent zinc sulfate. 15 mg a day is the RDA for men. However, it is always best to get your nutrients from whole foods. Good zinc sources are oysters, pumpkin seeds, ginger, pecans and brazil nuts. Try getting more zinc as slow wound healing can indicate deficiency.

To help your wound heal, apply a few drops of organic lavender essential oil, followed by a 70% solution of DMSO and water. You can get pure DMSO online or at better health food stores. It is anti inflammatory and helps heal damaged tissues. It is a powerful antioxidant and penetrates deeply into the tissues. The lavender oil will increase the effects of the DMSO and wil help soothe and heal the skin. Once the would dries up and closes, you may use lavender oil mixed in extra vrigin coconut oil to continue the healing process and help the tissues heal. If you have questions or comments, please post them in my yahoo group Holistic Skin Care for more info.

Good Luck!
Carisa