In a world increasingly turning towards natural and holistic health solutions, knowing a few natural first aid remedies can be incredibly beneficial. Whether you're a parent, an outdoor enthusiast, or someone who prefers natural alternatives to conventional medicine, this guide is for you.
Dear Dr.Kim
My family and I are heading camping this summer. I would like to make a natural kit of first aid remedies. Do you have some suggestions?
C.R. Victoria
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Allergy Relief
Honey: Local honey can provide relief from seasonal allergies. It contains trace amounts of pollen, which can help your body build up a tolerance. A spoonful a day can make a difference! The idea behind this remedy is that consuming local honey will help your body adapt to the allergens in your environment, reducing your allergic reaction over time.
Bug Bites
Citronella Bug Spray: This natural remedy is a great way to ward off pesky insects. Did you know that citronella is a grass type with natural insect-repelling properties? You can easily make a DIY citronella bug spray at home or buy one from a health store. Taking an oral B complex can also help limit being a target for bug bites for adults and teenagers.
Scrapes and Scratches
Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Applying it to scrapes and scratches can help speed healing and prevent infection. Coconut oil contains medium-chain fatty acids that aid in restoring the skin's natural barrier, thereby reducing the possibility of additional damage. To use, clean the wound thoroughly, then apply a thin layer of coconut oil and cover with a bandage.
Earaches
Garlic: This common kitchen ingredient has been used for centuries to treat various ailments, including earaches. Did you know garlic contains natural antibacterial properties that can fight infections? For earaches, you can make garlic oil at home by simmering crushed garlic cloves in olive oil. Once cooled, a few drops of this oil can be placed in the affected ear. Remember, it's important to consult a healthcare professional before trying this remedy, especially for children or if the earache is severe or persistent.
Headaches
Cayenne Pepper: Known for its pain-relieving properties, cayenne pepper can be an effective natural remedy for headaches. The capsaicin in cayenne pepper helps to inhibit a key neurotransmitter that transmits pain signals to the brain. If you're experiencing headaches, try making cayenne pepper tea by adding a small amount to a cup of hot water. Keep in mind that cayenne pepper can be quite spicy, so start with just a pinch. It's important to talk to a healthcare professional before trying this remedy, especially if you have a medical condition or are taking medication.
Immune Support
Vitamin C: This essential vitamin is known for its immune-boosting properties. It helps stimulate the production of white blood cells, which is crucial for fighting off infections. Vitamin C, whether in the form of tablets, capsules, or natural sources like citrus fruits, can provide much-needed support should you or a family member fall ill.
Sun Protection
Natural Sunscreen: Protecting your skin from harmful U.V. rays is crucial. Many conventional sunscreens contain chemicals that can harm your skin and the environment. Natural sunscreens contain minerals such as zinc oxide and titanium dioxide to shield your skin from the sun. The Environmental Working Group provides a review of sunscreens to help you navigate limiting chemical exposure.
Vinegar: Vinegar, particularly apple cider vinegar, can help soothe sunburn. It contains acetic acid, which can help relieve pain and inflammation from burns. To use, dilute one part vinegar with two parts water and apply to the affected area using a cloth or spray bottle.
Aloe Vera Gel: Despite our best efforts, sunburns can happen. Aloe vera gel provides soothing relief for sunburns, and dry skin helps heal the skin. It's hydrating, anti-inflammatory, and can be applied directly to the skin.
Musculoskeletal Aches and Injuries
Traumacare Cream: This natural remedy is perfect for musculoskeletal aches, injuries, or even bug bites. Its soothing natural healing properties can provide immediate relief. It's a homeopathic cream that combines several natural ingredients known for relieving pain and inflammation.
Digestive Issues
A Shelf-Stable Probiotic: Having a probiotic on hand can help ward off or treat tummy troubles if they crop up. Maintaining a healthy gut can be aided by probiotics, and good bacteria. They can alleviate digestive issues such as bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation.
Bee or Wasp Stings
Apis Homeopathic: If someone in your group falls victim to a bee or wasp sting, Apis can be dosed orally as soon as possible and each hour for several hours to help bring down the local skin irritation. This homeopathic remedy is made from the honeybee, and it's known for its ability to relieve swelling, redness, and itching. Please note this is not a treatment for anaphylactic people.
Baking Soda: For bee stings, a paste made from baking soda and water can help neutralize the bee venom and provide relief from pain and itching. Baking soda is a natural acid neutralizer, making it effective against bee stings, which are acidic.
To alleviate the discomfort caused by a sting, create a thick paste by mixing one tablespoon of baking soda with enough water. Apply the paste to the affected area and allow it to sit for 15-20 minutes before rinsing it off.
Sore Throat
Zinc Lozenges: If a sore throat appears, zinc lozenges can provide immediate relief and speed up recovery. Did you know that Zinc is a crucial mineral that can strengthen your immune system and has antiviral properties? It also acts as a great remedy for sore throats and can help shorten the duration of the common cold.
Additional Natural First Aid Kit Supplies
Patch Bandages: These are not your ordinary bandages. Made from 100% organic bamboo, they are enriched with coconut and essential oil, each offering a sustainable and skin-friendly alternative to traditional bandages.
Butterfly Bandages and Gauze: These are essential for covering and protecting wounds, helping to speed up the healing process.
Hot Water Bottle: This can provide comfort and relief for various ailments, from muscle aches to menstrual cramps.
Enema Kit: While not something you might immediately think of, an enema kit can be useful for certain health situations.
Superglue: You might be surprised to see this in a first aid kit, but superglue can be incredibly effective for treating minor to moderate skin cuts, excluding puncture wounds. Paired with butterfly bandages, it can serve as an alternative to stitches, often healing faster and leaving less scarring. It's particularly useful for areas that scar easily, like the face, or places where traditional bandages are hard to apply, such as in the hair.
Bulb Syringe and NoseFrida: These tools are great for relieving congestion in children and helping them breathe easier.
Sterilized Muslin Cloth: Stored in plastic bags, these strips of cloth are perfect for wrapping wounds.
Repurposed Wool Sleeves: Cut from old sweaters, these can be used to cover bandages and hold ice packs in place.
Homemade Ice Pack: You can make your ice pack by freezing liquid dish soap or rubbing alcohol in a double-bagged ziplock bag. It's a cost-effective and handy solution for reducing swelling and relieving pain.
SUM
We hope this guide has provided you with valuable insights into the world of natural first aid and herbal remedies. But don't let your journey stop here! We encourage you to dive deeper into natural health and wellness.
Why not start by trying out these remedies for yourself? Next time you or a loved one experiences a minor ailment, reach for one of these natural solutions. Remember, the best way to understand the power of these remedies is to experience their health benefits firsthand.
Share your experiences with us. Did you try the citronella bug spray? How did the aloe vera gel work for your sunburn? Did the zinc lozenges help soothe your sore throat? Your stories can inspire others to embrace a more natural approach to health and wellness.
And if you have any questions or need further clarification, don't hesitate to ask. We're here to support you on your natural health and wellness journey.
“Health from the inside out.”
Dr. Kimberly McQueen BSc, ND is a Naturopathic Physician in Victoria, BC. In addition to her clinic work she works with Rowing Canada's National Team program, and has been a consultant to the Pacific Institute for Sport Excellence and Rugby Canada. P:778.433.4935 and
