When most people think of burns, fire and heat usually come to mind. While it is true that heat is the leading cause of tissue damage known as a “burn”, a burn can also be caused by radiation (like a sun burn), friction, electricity, and chemicals. Most burns, other than the most severe, can be safely and effectively treated with natural home remedies. Burns are characterized by degree, based on the severity of the tissue damage. First-degree burns cause redness and swelling in the epidermis (the outermost layers of skin). Second-degree burns also involve redness and swelling, as well as blistering and the damage may extend beneath the epidermis to the deeper layers of skin (the dermis). Third-degree burns destroy the entire depth of skin and usually result in scarring. The damage may extend to underlying fat, muscle, or bone. The wonderful Aloe Vera plant is a top choice for healing and soothing burns. Since the active ingredient (acemannen) breaks down quickly, fresh inner leaf fillets are much preferred. Fresh Aloe Vera quickly soothes painful burns and often heals even serious burns with little or no scarring. Lavender essential oil is a very effective antiseptic that also reduces pain and promotes rapid healing. In addition, lavender reduces scarring. When lavender oil is applied to a burn very quickly, the burn may heal with no scarring at all. For larger burns, pour lavender oil onto gauze or a cloth and apply the gauze to the burn every few hours. A wonderful and widely available household first aid item for healing and soothing burns is diluted vinegar. Cover the burn area with a cloth soaked in diluted vinegar and refresh the vinegar compress as often as needed, especially if the pain returns. Another good household item is honey, especially raw honey. Honey has wonderful antiseptic and healing properties. Researchers in India found burns dressed with honey healed faster and with less pain and scarring. Another age old remedy is potato peels. Potato peels provide moisture and they also have anti-bacterial properties. Doctors have found potato peel bandages work better for minor burns than conventional dressings. Vitamins A, C, and E aid in the healing process for burns and other wounds. Zinc can help with healthier skin after the burn, as well as a quicker recovery time. Severe burns often heal with little or no scarring. Note: In the case of any very severe burn, seek professional medical care immediately.