How Does a Tea Bag Stop Bleeding?
Tea is more than a delicious beverage – it also has several surprising health benefits, one of which is its ability to help stop minor bleeding. Wondering how a tea bag can help? Here’s what you need to know:
How Does it Work?
A tea bag contains tannic acid, a natural astringent. When the warm, wet tea bag is applied to a cut or wound, this astringent helps constrict the blood vessels, slowing the bleeding and helping clotting to occur.
What Else Can Tea Bags Be Used For?
Tea bags are not just for stopping bleeding! Here are a few more ways that a tea bag can be used:
- Soothes eye irritation: the light tannic acid in the tea is able to help soothe eye irritation such as pink eyes, styes and even hay fever.
- Reduces puffiness: Applied cold, tea bags can help reduce puffiness around the eyes.
- Relieves burns: Cold tea bags can be applied to sooth a minor burn.
- Gets rid of smelly feet: Tea can help neutralize the bacteria that causes smelly feet.
Tips for Using Tea Bags to Stop Bleeding
- Make sure the tea bag is pre-soaked in very hot water for at least two minutes.
- Let the bag cool before applying to the cut or wound.
- Press gently to slow the bleeding.
- Change the tea bag every 10 minutes or so.
- If the bleeding does not stop, seek medical attention.
A tea bag is a simple and easy way to help stop minor bleeding. Used together with good hygiene and careful cleaning of the wound, it can help reduce the bleeding in no time!
