The Herbal First Aid Kit
These are the remedies which have found their way into my home first aid kit. They are much gentler on the system and equally as effective as the harsh synthetics you will find in most pre-packaged first aid kits.
Please remember that first aid is a stop gap measure! Get medical attention for any serious injuries immediately!
- Aloe
- Break off an aloe leaf and scrape the gel to soothe minor burns, scalds, and sunburns. Aloe has tissue regenerative properties and will help heal all wounds.
- Arnica
- Arnica cream or oil can be used on bruises or sprains where the skin is not broken. Homeopathic arnica tablets are used to treat shock in much the same way as Rescue Remedy.
- Calendula Cream
- Homemade or storebought, this is antispetic and antifungal. If you make it, try adding comfrey to the cream; it will help speed the healing process.
- Clove Oil
- Clove oil is a good antispetic for cuts; it is also useful for treating toothaches.
- Compresses
- Keep squares of gauze or cheesecloth on hand to make compresses. Use comfrey, witch hazel, or arnica for sprains; St. John's Wort for deep cuts; comfrey or witch hazel for burns.
- Crystallized Ginger
- Chew for motion sickness or the nausea associated with pregnancy.
- Eucalyptus Oil
- This is a good inhalant for colds, coughs, and respiratory infections.
- Rescue Remedy
- This combination of 5 of the Bach Flower Remedies is effective for shocks and emotional upsets, especially in children.
- St. John's Wort Infused Oil
- Excellent for minor burns and sunburn.
- Slippery Elm
- Slippery elm powder is used to make poultices for drawing splinters and bringing boils to a head.
- Tea Tree Oil
- Antispetic and antifungal. Useful for cleansing wounds.
- Witch Hazel Extract
- Use it to treat minor burns, sunburn, and insect bites. Apply to nasal passages to stop nosebleeds. Wasg cuts with it to help cleanse them.
