A variety of natural ingredients are used in the traditional treatment of boils. All of these fall under the category of Malay ethnomedicine, which continues to be practised today. The following provides a detailed explanation of each ingredient:

1. Ginger (Zingiber officinale)

Ginger is a warming spice commonly used to improve blood circulation. In the treatment of boils, ginger is believed to reduce inflammation and accelerate the maturation process. The compound gingerol in ginger possesses both anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, which help relieve pain and eliminate bacteria at the site of infection.

2. Slaked Lime

Slaked lime is a mineral substance traditionally mixed with areca nut and betel leaves in the practice of chewing betel. In the context of boil treatment, it is believed to dry out the boil quickly due to its hot and alkaline nature.

3. Betel Leaf (Piper betle)

Betel leaf is highly synonymous with traditional Malay medicine. Rich in phenolic compounds, it has antiseptic, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties. When crushed or pounded, the leaf can be applied directly to boils to inhibit bacterial growth and accelerate healing.

4. Neem Oil (Azadirachta indica)

Neem oil is extracted from the seeds or leaves of the neem tree. It is well known for its antiseptic, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. Commonly used in both Ayurvedic and traditional Malay medicine, neem oil, when applied to boils, helps reduce swelling, kill bacteria, and accelerate skin recovery.

5. Garlic (Allium sativum)

Garlic is a highly effective natural antibiotic. The allicin compound in garlic functions as a potent antibacterial and antifungal agent, making it a widely used remedy for skin infections, including boils.

6. Turmeric (Curcuma longa)

Turmeric is a primary ingredient in Malay ethnomedicine. The curcumin it contains acts as an anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and antibacterial agent. It is believed to reduce swelling and speed up the maturation of boils, making it easier for pus to be expelled.

7. Black Cumin Oil (Nigella sativa)

Commonly known as habbatus sauda, black cumin oil is obtained from the seeds of Nigella sativa. It contains thymoquinone, a compound with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, while also enhancing the immune system.

8. Cajuput Oil (Melaleuca cajuputi)

Cajuput oil is a traditional remedy well known for its warming effect on the body, its ability to relieve colds, and to reduce itchiness. It also has antiseptic and antibacterial properties. When applied to boils, cajuput oil helps reduce swelling and eliminates bacteria responsible for skin infections.

9. Mimosa Leaf (Mimosa pudica)

Mimosa, commonly known as the “touch-me-not plant,” possesses medicinal qualities that are not widely recognised in modern society. In traditional practice, the leaves are finely pounded and applied as a poultice on boils to reduce inflammation. It is believed to hasten the ripening of boils and alleviate pain.

10. Pure Honey

Pure honey is a natural substance renowned for its numerous health benefits. It possesses antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it effective in accelerating the healing process of wounds and skin infections.

Traditional treatments for boils require different preparation processes depending on the ingredients used. The following outlines the methods of preparation and application for each remedy:

1. Treatment with Ginger

• Take 2–3 slices of fresh ginger.

• Pound until fine or lightly heat over a flame until the juice is released.

• Apply directly onto the surface of the boil.

• It can also be mixed with a small amount of coconut oil to enhance effectiveness.

2. Treatment with Slaked Lime

• Take a small amount of slaked lime and dilute it with water.

• Mix until a thick paste forms.

• Apply a thin layer of the paste directly to the boil. Avoid applying too thickly, as this may irritate the skin.

• Leave until dry, then rinse with warm water.

3. Treatment with Betel Leaves

• Take 2–3 fresh betel leaves.

• Wash thoroughly and briefly wilt them over a low flame.

• Crush or pound until the juice is released.

• Place the leaf directly on the boil and wrap with a clean cloth.

• Replace the dressing every 3–4 hours.

4. Treatment with Neem Oil

• Take a few drops of pure neem oil.

• Apply evenly on the boil using a clean cotton pad.

• Repeat 2–3 times daily until swelling subsides.

• Alternatively, neem leaves can be finely pounded and applied as a poultice on the boil.

5. Treatment with Garlic

• Take 1–2 fresh garlic cloves.

• Crush until the juice is released.

• Place directly on the boil for 10–15 minutes. Avoid leaving it for too long, as garlic may irritate sensitive skin.

• Rinse with clean water. Repeat twice daily.

6. Treatment with Turmeric Root

• Take a piece of fresh turmeric root and wash it thoroughly.

• Pound or grind until smooth.

• Mix with a small amount of coconut oil or olive oil.

• Apply the poultice to the boil and cover it with a clean cloth.

• Repeat this process after each bath for optimal results.

7. Treatment with Black Cumin Oil

• To prepare black cumin oil traditionally, take a handful of black cumin seeds, dry roast them (without oil) to release their aroma, then pound or grind them until they are crushed. Wrap in a clean cloth and press to extract the oil. Store the oil in a dark glass bottle to maintain quality.

• For boil treatment: Take a few drops of the oil and apply it directly to the boil with a cotton pad.

• Gently massage the area while applying.

• It can also be mixed with pure honey before application.

• Use twice daily until the boil subsides.

8. Treatment with Cajuput Oil

• To prepare cajuput oil traditionally, collect fresh leaves and young twigs of the cajuput tree. Wilt them briefly under the sun to reduce excess moisture. Please place them in a large pot or traditional distiller and heat with steam until the oil vaporises. The vapour passes through pipes into a cooling chamber, where the oil separates from the water due to density differences. The cajuput oil floating on the surface is then collected and stored in bottles.

• For boil treatment: Place 3–4 drops of cajuput oil on a clean cotton pad.

• Apply directly onto the boil for several minutes.

• Repeat 2–3 times daily.

• This method helps reduce swelling and provides a warming effect at the site of the infection.

9. Treatment with Mimosa Leaves

• Pick several fresh mimosa leaves.

• Pound until fine.

• Apply the paste directly onto the boil.

• Leave for 20–30 minutes before rinsing off.

• Repeat daily until the boil matures and bursts.

10. Treatment with Pure Honey

• Take 1–2 teaspoons of pure honey.

• Apply directly onto the boil using a cotton pad or clean finger.

• Leave for 15–20 minutes, then rinse with warm water.

• Repeat daily to accelerate healing.

• In addition to topical application, pure honey may also be consumed to strengthen the immune system.