Create Your Own Herbal First Aid Kit
Plants play an important role in medicine, and herbs are a great alternative to over-the-counter or prescription drugs and remedies. There are many herbs you can purchase that will ease cuts, scrapes, stings, and burns, reduce swelling and bruising, reduce the symptoms of colds, the flu, and other viruses, help you relax, and more. Some plants are more potent than others, so be sure to ask your doctor or naturopath before starting any herbal regimen.
Ease Cuts, Scrapes, Stings, and Burns
•Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera contains vitamins and amino acids that regenerate the skin. It’s most popularly used to treat sunburns, but can also be used for minor cuts and scrapes. Apply a layer of gel directly to affected area. You can purchase aloe vera gel in any natural food market, or in most supermarkets.
•Calendula
The calendula plant, also known as marigold, contains flavonoids, which protect the body against cell damage. The dried petals of the calendula plant are often used to help heal cuts and burns. You can make a tincture, ointment, or wash out of the petals. Some natural food stores may carry calendula ointment. (Source: University of Maryland Medical Center.)
•Tea Tree Oil
Tea Tree Oil, also known as Melaleuca, is a mild antiseptic. Apply a few drops to cleanse small cuts, scrapes, stings, and burns. Note: Some people may experience sensitivity to tea tree oil.
Reduce Swelling, Sore Muscles, and Bruising
•Arnica
Arnica is a flowering plant native to Europe and Siberia, but is cultivated in North America. Arnica is available commercially as a cream. Use it to soothe muscles, reduce inflammation, and help heal bruises. (Source:University of Maryland Medical Center.)
•Calendula
Calendula is also effective in healing bruises.
•Rosemary Oil
Rosemary Oil relieves the pain of sore, stiff muscles and joints. Gently massage the oil into skin. (Source: Annie’s Remedy.)
Reduce Cold, Flu, and Other Virus Symptoms
•Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus is popularly used as a chest rub or steam inhalation to open constricted airways. Look for eucalyptus as an essential oil.
•Ginger
This spicy root promotes digestion and relieves stomach aches. Best used as tea, which is widely available commercially.
•Mullein
The leaves of the mullein plant can be used as relief for a wide variety of ailments, including congestion, asthma, hay fever, glandular swelling, and general pain. Boil 1 tablespoon of leaves in 1 cup water for 5-10 minutes and drink as tea. (Source: Alternative Nature.)
•Osha
The osha plant is native to the high altitudes of the southwest Rocky Mountain states. It resembles poison hemlock, so before harvesting the root yourself, make sure you know how to identify both plants. The root of the osha plant can be used to treat respiratory ailments, and is especially effective as a cough suppressant and expectorant.
•Slippery Elm
Well-known as a throat soother, slippery elm root is often added to throat lozenges.
Relaxants
•Chamomile
Drink a cup of chamomile tea before bedtime for a sleep aid. Can also be used as an aromatherapy oil.
•Lavender
Lavender is the most popular aromatherapy herb in the world. Used in potpourri and body care products, lavender is considered a relaxing and calming scent.
•Valerian
Valerian root is a good stress reliever. It eases nervousness and anxiety, and is a helpful sleep aid. Valerian is often used in sleep pillows.
General
Don’t forget to stock your first aid kit with bandages, tweezers, scissors, a thermometer, and if you’re deathly allergic to anything, and Epi-Pen.
Recipes
Osha cough syrup
Combine one part osha root with two parts honey. Add enough water to cover, and simmer until the liquid has reduced by one half. Strain and drink.
Herbal Ear Oil
Combine ½ cup mullein flowers, 4 chopped garlic cloves, and enough olive oil to cover. Warm for several hours over low heat. Strain. Place mixture in an ear dropper. Use a few drops at a time to soothe minor ear aches.
Sources
Prescription for Nutritional Healing by James F. Balch, M.D. and Phyllis A. Balch, C.N.C.
Mother Nature
University of Maryland Medical Center
Frontier Co-op
Alternative Nature
