At some point in their life, most Thais will sport what is sometimes referred to as “The Thai Tattoo.” It usually takes the form of a 2–3 inch (sometimes much larger) circular or oval shaped, crimson colored patch, usually on the lower inner calf or ankle. The one pictured in the photograph below belongs to my son.
If you have not guessed already, this is a wound caused by contact with a red hot motorcycle exhaust pipe.
Motorcycles are still the most common mode of transport in Thailand. They are affordable, economical to run and cheap to maintain. Thanks to Thai ingenuity, motorcycles are also very versatile and are often modified for duties which you would associate with motor cars or vans.
Given the popularity and heavy use of motorcycles in Thailand, and that typical riding attire is usually no more than a short-sleeved shirt, shorts, and sandals, the resulting motorcycle exhaust pipe burn is almost inevitable.
Thai Motorcycle Exhaust Pipe Burn Remedy
I’m not recommending self-treatment if you happen to suffer a motorcycle exhaust pipe burn during your stay in Thailand. Especially if the burn is deep, you really should see a doctor.
However, if motorcycle exhaust pipe burns are a typically “Thai thing,” so is the practice of treating minor burns with Aloe Vera. As documented in Healthline’s guide to home remedies for minor burns, Aloe Vera gel may help soothe the skin and encourage healing, though medical care is essential for deeper or more severe injuries.
In the West, Aloe gel and Aloe-based lotions have long been used to treat sunburn. In Thailand, Aloe Vera is a common garden plant found in many households, meaning the real thing is never far away.
It’s simply a case of cutting one of the fleshy stems from the nearest Aloe Vera plant and smearing the gel straight on to the burn area (as seen in the photo below).
