Herbal First Aid Kit

There are few reliable studies that conclusively prove that herbal remedies work, but for minor conditions natural alternatives are soothing and often make us feel better.  For serious conditions always consult a doctor.  Some ailments that can be treated by traditional herbal first-aid include:

Minor cuts: apply tincture of calendula (pot marigold) as an antiseptic.

Hangovers: the herb silymarin (milk thistle) is said to protect and restore the liver.  Take one or two tablets a day over festive periods.  Evening primrose oil can also help to prevent hangovers, but you need  to take tablets before drinking (follow dosage instructions on box).

Indigestion: alfalfa and ginger settle the stomach; peppermint is good for cramps and can be taken as an herbal tea; chamomile is anti-inflammatory and can be taken as a soothing tea or tincture.

Insect bites and stings: relieve pain and itching  with neat lavender or tea tree oil, or mix 2 drops of either chamomile, lavender, or lemon essential oils with 2 TBSP of vegetable carrier oil.  Another method is to rub basil leaves on stings. For bee stings apply a sodium bicarbonate paste made by mixing with water.

Other traditional remedies for mosquito and gnat bites or wasp and bee stings include cider vinegar, feverfew, garlic, lemon, or witch hazel.  For a natural insect repellent apply diluted citronella, lemon eucalyptus, or tea tree essential oil to the skin.

Coughs: slice an onion in a bowl, cover with runny honey and leave overnight.  The onion juice will seep into the honey.  Take a dessert spoonful as needed.  For a sweeter alternative, a tea made of freshly squeezed .lemon juice, hot water,and honey is soothing.

Colds: add 1-2 TBSP of powdered mustard to hot water to create a relaxing foot bath.  For a soothing ginger drink, slice 1 oz fresh ginger root and add 5 cloves, 2 broken cinnamon sticks, 1 TBSP of coriander seeds, and 1 pint of water.  Simmer  for 15 minutes.  Strain off the herbs and spices,add a squeeze of lemon juice and a teaspoon of honey and drink.  

If you feel a cold coming on, take echinacea tea,tablets or tincture (tincture is most effective) to keep it away, and to keep your immune system in good order.

Bruising: comfrey or arnica can be used as creams or compresses.

Chilblains (unbroken): apply oil of peppermint or rosemary, or soak feet in a bath made from powdered mustard as described above.  Gently but thoroughly dry your feet with a towel and put socks on before going to bed.

Minor Sunburn: apply neat lavender essential oil directly to the affected area.  For a soothing aftersun oil or lotion add 6 drops of bergamot, 6 drops of lavender, 5 drops of chamomile and 5 drops of sandalwood oil to 4 TBSP of carrier oil.