"Keep it wet and warm. " A warm compress is the best way to treat a boil, but you have to keep it very wet and very warm," says John F. Romano, M.D., a dermatologist and clinical assistant professor of medicine at The New York Hospital--Cornell Medical Center in New York City. "It's not enough to wring out a washcloth and place it on the boil. You should leave the compress on for 10 to 15 minutes, but keep wetting it every few minutes to make sure the boil stays wet and warm." He suggests this 15-minute compress four or five times daily to bring the boil to a head, which leads to its draining and then healing.

Home remedies for boils include compresses of heated slices of tomato or raw onion, mashed garlic or the outer leaves of cabbage. Press these cut vegetables directly on the boil and see for yourself how well they work.

Advice from a GP, Co.Durham: The best way to deal with boils and abscesses is to prevent them occurring. Avoid getting tired and run down and make sure you eat a healthy, balanced diet. Drink plenty of water (around two litres per day), don't drink too much alcohol and take some exercise.

Home remedies for boils include compresses of heated slices of tomato or raw onion, mashed garlic or the outer leaves of cabbage. Press these cut vegetables directly on the boil and see for yourself how well they work. Place a warm tea bag of black tea directly on the boil for 15 minutes several times a day.