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"Always observe the physician with the same diligence as he the disease.” -  John Donne, 1623  

3430-D Anderson Hwy., Powhatan, VA  23139

(804) 598-5352 www.herbalconsultant.com

MAY, 2008 NEWSLETTER

      NATURAL FIRST AID KIT

Do you watch the TV show "Lost?" It's all about survivors from a plane that crashed on a strange island in the middle of nowhere. Luckily for them, food and supplies are mysteriously air-dropped onto the island from unknown sources so these victims seem to have everything they need. In reality, however, it would be doubtful that supplies would magically appear like they do on TV. So if I was stranded on a desert island, there are several essential first aid items I would hope to have with me. These diverse supplies would treat a variety of illnesses and injuries. Along with healing plants found in nature and the food and water I would try my best to forage, my natural first aid kit would help me survive until help arrived. Here are the most essential items I would want to have with me for emergencies:

1. Arnica tablets and gel. Prepared homeopathically (active ingredients prepared in minute doses), Arnica Montana is used for healing trauma injuries, bruises, sprains, strains, and muscle soreness. When used immediately after the injury, relief can be seen almost instantaneously. Arnica tablets help the body mobilize its defense to fight the injury from within. The gel is effective for healing the pain and preventing bruising.

2. Antibacterial salve. A salve made with tea tree essential oil is antibacterial and antifungal. It would prevent infections from stings, cuts, bites, burns, and rashes.

3. Insect repellent. Essential oils that have been diluted in water and witch hazel or alcohol make effective bug repellents. The best oils are lavender, citronella, eucalyptus, cedarwood, and lemon grass.

4. Echinacea tincture. In its liquid form, echinacea can be used externally and internally. It will boost immunity and fight infections. It can be applied directly to wounds to disinfect them. It will fight the effects of snake bites, too.

5. Ginger capsules. For any type of stomach problem, ginger is my herb of choice. It helps nausea from various conditions, treats motion sickness, combats gas, helps with cramps, and is anti-inflammatory.

6. Charcoal tablets. Charcoal, when taken in large doses every hour, will combat certain types of poisoning and fight diarrhea. Other remedies for diarrhea (and for internal hemorrhaging) include raspberry and strawberry leaves and blackberry and strawberry roots (boiled for 20 minutes).

7. Cayenne capsules. If opened and applied externally, cayenne will stop bleeding. It will also warm cold feet if sprinkled inside your shoes or boots.

8. Bug bite and itch relief. Witch hazel, plantain, comfrey and St. John's wort all provide relief from insect bites and general itching. Tinctured combinations of these seem to work best and are applied directly to the skin. Juice from the plantain grows wild almost everywhere. Crumple the leaves and rub directly onto the skin. Lavender essential oil may be applied directly to the skin and works very well to stop itching, too.

9. Willow bark capsules. Aspirin was originally made from the bark of the willow tree. Willow bark is a natural pain reliever and anti-inflammatory.

10. Thyme essential oil. Two drops in 4 ounces of water can be used as a mouthwash, for toothaches or, when used as a gargle, for sore throats. Externally, this same combination will treat crabs, lice, and other external parasites. Finally, the steam from two drops placed in just-boiled water can be inhaled for colds, flu, or bronchitis to loosen phlegm in the lungs.

11. Band-aids, gauze, scissors, tape, ready cold-packs, and ace bandages are critical for providing the best possible care for most trauma injuries.

By the way, you don't have to be in a plane wreck or stranded in the middle of nowhere to find a natural first aid kit useful. These items are perfect to take with you camping, hiking, on a picnic, or to the beach. So be sure you pack your natural emergency essentials next time you travel. You never know when you might end up wrecked on a desert island. I'm sure you'll want to be prepared!

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