Living with hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) can be challenging. Many people with HS experience painful lesions and bursting abscesses. Some members of myHSteam have wondered if home remedies can improve their skin condition.

One myHSteam member shared that their great-grandmother encouraged their mother to eat raisins to treat their HS: “I’m wondering if there is something to these ‘old remedies.’ Has anyone tried eating raisins and seen results?”

Another replied, “I’m willing to try ANYTHING at this point! I’m getting some raisins tomorrow! 😅”

This article looks at the potential health benefits of raisins and whether they might help with HS symptoms.

Raisins and Their Benefits

Raisins, or dried grapes, have been part of the human diet for thousands of years and have a surprising number of health benefits. While there’s no direct research on raisins and HS symptoms or skin health, many people find that diet changes can help manage their HS symptoms and flare-ups.

Raisins are a good source of:

• Magnesium
• Potassium
• Boron
• Soluble and insoluble fibers
• Sugars
• Vitamin C

Raisins also contain special plant compounds called polyphenols, like flavonols and phenolic acids. These are found in many fruits and vegetables. Raisins actually have more polyphenols than fresh grapes. These compounds help protect plants from sun damage and infections. They might also offer health benefits for people.

Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Polyphenols in raisins offer important anti-inflammatory benefits. Research has shown that raisins lower some signs of inflammation in the body, though more research is needed to fully understand this effect. For example, one animal study found that grapeseed extract (which contains polyphenols) lowered inflammation markers in diabetic rats.

Antioxidant Properties

The polyphenols in raisins also offer antioxidant benefits. Antioxidants help protect cells from damage and can help lower the risk of certain diseases. However, more research is needed to understand how raisins specifically affect disease risk.

How Anti-Inflammatory Foods Might Help HS

Your diet can influence inflammatory responses in your body. Many healthcare professionals recommend anti-inflammatory foods to help reduce HS flare-ups and skin lesions.

The Mediterranean diet is a well-known anti-inflammatory eating plan. It focuses on whole, plant-based, and minimally processed foods. While this diet can be a good starting point, a healthcare professional can help you create a personalized plan. They may suggest an elimination diet meal plan to identify foods that trigger your HS symptoms. They can also make sure you’re getting the nutrients you need.

Adding anti-inflammatory foods to your diet might help manage HS symptoms, but it shouldn’t replace medical treatment for HS. Always talk to your doctor before making changes to your diet or adding nutritional supplements.

Talk With Others Who Understand

On myHSteam, the social network for people with hidradenitis suppurativa and their loved ones, more than 46,000 members come together to ask questions, give advice, and share their stories with others who understand life with hidradenitis suppurativa.

Have you tried raisins or other anti-inflammatory foods to manage HS boils? Share your experience in the comments below, or start a conversation by posting on your Activities page.