There are many herbs and household items that can be kept on hand as an all-natural first aid kit. While nothing can take the place of a doctor’s care, there are many ways to take minor injuries or irritations at home. Things like insect bites, minor burns, sunburn, abrasions and low grade fevers can be treated with these all natural ingredients. As always, be aware of any allergies or underlying conditions and be certain that you are using the correct herb. Additional research and advice from an expert has never hurt anyone. If you are in any doubt about an herb, or the severity of the issue that needs to be addressed, or worsening problems, consult a doctor immediately. Never take unnecessary chances with your health.
Aloe Vera (Aloe vera) has soothing and cooling properties and is well know to help soothe burns, including sunburns. If you are lucky enough to have an aloe plant in your home or garden you have a great resource at your fingertips. Break a leaf of the plant. Split it open and use the gel on minor burns, sunburn, scalds, and rashes. If you do not have a plant, you can buy the plant’s natural gel in most drug stores, supermarkets and health stores.
Calendula (Calendula officinalis) is an herb with healing and antiseptic properties. A tincture made with calendula and Saint John’s wort can be dabbed directly onto small injuries. The tincture could also be diluted in half a cup of hot water to make a cleansing lotion for abrasions or made into a healing lotion.
Chamomile (Matricaria recultita) is an herb known to soothe and calm. A tea made with chamomile can be used to help with insomnia, fevers, and nausea. Chamomile tea sweetened with honey is a good remedy for shock. Cooled tea can also be used externally, as a lotion to help soothe skin with rashes.
Comfrey (Symphytum officinale) is a traditional herb, long used because of its ability to promote healing. The fresh leaves should be mashed into a pulp and applied as a poultice to bruises, ulcers and sprains. Macerated oil or cream can be made with comfrey and applied as well.
Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea) is commonly used to boost immunity and prevent infection. It can be taken internally to prevent infection. A diluted tincture made with echinacea can also be used as a lotion to treat animal bites, insect bites or stings and wounds to prevent infection.
Garlic (Allium sativum) is much more that a culinary herb. This pungent herb has anticatarrhal and antiseptic properties. Raw garlic can be consumed to relieve congestion and help prevent infections. An infected spot or boil can also be rubbed with fresh garlic to treat the external infection.
Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) is a much nicer smelling herb. It has anti inflammatory, calming, and healing properties. Lavender essential oil can be applied to sunburn, minor burns, scalds and insect bites to soothe the irritation that comes with them. A little dab of the oil on the temples can help relieve insomnia or a tension headache. Inhaling the scent of the oil can also help those suffering from shock.
Plantain (Plantago lanceolata) is a herb with soothing and antihistamine properties. Fresh leaves can be bruised and applied to rashes, stings, and bites to soothe the irritation that they bring. A tincture m,an with plantain and calendula can be used as a mouthwash or to clean and heal abrasions and minor cuts.
Slippery elm (Ulmus rubra) is a traditional herbal remedy for a number of stomach complains because of its ability to line the stomach and ease inflammation. Slippery elm can be mixed with water and ingested to soothe stomach upset, gastritis, and indigestion. It can also be made into a paste with a little water to make a poultice. When applied, the poultice can help treat boils and abscesses or to draw out splinters.
Witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana) is cooling and soothing. Distilled witch hazel can be applied liberally to bruising, insect bites, hemorrhoids, minor burns, or sunburn with a soft cloth or cotton balls.
Sources:
Medicinal Herb Chart, Annie’s Remedy Essential Oils and Herbs.
Medicinal Herb Plant Pictures and Descriptions List, Karen Bergeron.