Splinters are mainly pieces of metal, glass, wood or any other matter which get caught beneath our skin. Splinters that are caught on the upper layer of the skin generally tend to be painless; it is only when they get embedded deep into the skin, that they cause a great amount of pain. It is important to get rid of splinters as they could lead to infections if ignored. The symptoms and signs of splinters are quite apparent. You will experience pain in the affected area along with the sensation of a foreign object being embedded in your skin. There could also be a tiny opening on the area of skin, where the splinter has pierced. Additionally the area could swell, bruise, bleed or cause severe pain. The affected area could stay sore for a few days after the splinter is removed.
Here are a few home remedies that you can implement to get rid of a splinter. Take an onion and peel off the outer layers. Place a few layers of the peeled skin on the affected area and then wrap it with a bandage or a clean piece of cloth for an hour or two. Onion contains anti-inflammatory properties which will help in pulling the splinter to the surface of the skin, after which you can pluck it out with a sterilized tweezer. Potatoes can also be used for this purpose. Chop a medium sized potato into thin slices. Place a slice on the embedded area for 15-20 minutes. This remedy is also known to draw the splinter to the surface. Again, use a sterilized tweezer to pull it out. Apply a few drops of castor oil onto the affected area, and then use a clean cloth or bandage to wrap the area. Leave the application on overnight. The castor oil will help in pulling the stubborn splinter to the surface.
Warm water is also an excellent remedy for getting rid of such obstinate splinters. Soak your foot in a bucket of warm water for 15-20 minutes. The temperature of the water will cause the splinter to expand, eventually making it pop out. The inner part of an egg shell can also help you in getting rid of splinters. Empty the contents of an egg into a bowl and then rub the inner part of the shell on the area for a few minutes. This will help the splinter slip out.