March 25th, 2005
Herbal First Aid Kit
In a Domestic emergency, we are more inclined to reach for non-prescription antiseptics and painkillers than herbal medicine. Yet herbs can provide effective alternatives to many over-the-counter pharmacy offerings and might be available when the standard first aid kit is not – in an emergency in the countryside, for example. For home use, commercial herbal preparations can supplement fresh herbs.
Remedies to buy – herbal remedies can be brought ready-made in a variety of different forms, including creams, essential oils, and capsules.
First Aid Kit— keep herbal first aid remedies in a box in a cool place out of the reach of children.
- Rescue Remedy
v The Bach Flower Remedies have a potent effect on the emotions. Rescue Remedy, also available as a cream, is food for shocks and nervous upsets.
- Marigold Cream
v Often sold ad Calendula, this antiseptic and antifungal. It is useful for all sorts of cuts and scraps.
- Comfrey Ointment
v This speeds healing of wounds by encouraging cell growth; use only on clean cuts because the rapidly healing skin may trap dirt.
- Chickweed Cream
v A Valuable first aid remedy for drawing stubborn splinters, boils, and insect stings, or for burns and scalds.
- Lavender Oil
v Add 2-3 drops to a teaspoon of carrier oil and massage into the nape of the neck and temples at the first hint of a headache or migraine. Use the same mix to relieve minor burns, scalds, and sunburn.
- Tea Tree Oil
v Highly antiseptic and antifungal for cuts and abrasions, as well as warts and cold sores.
- Evening Primrose Capsules
v A useful hangover cure. Take a large dose (2-3 g) on “the morning after” to bring rapid relief.
- Distilled Witch Hazel
v Use for minor burns and sunburn. Soak a swab in witch hazel to staunch the flow of blood from wounds and soothe insect bites. For bruises and sprains, keep an ice-cube tray of witch hazel in the freezer, clearly labeled.
- Arnica 6X Tablets
v Essential for domestic shocks or accidents, these homeopathic tablets can be taken at 30 minute intervals until the patient feels more settled.
- Arnica Cream
v Effective for bruises and sprains. Do not use on broken skin; it can be an irritant.
Book Title: “The Complete Medicinal Herbal”
Author: Penelope Ody
Pages: 126
