effective treatment for burns, it can also be used to make a soothing drink for sore throats and colds.
Lavender oil
I like to always have a supply of this essential oil available. It can be used on bites and stings, cuts and wounds to help the skin to heal and also applied to the temples to soothe a headache.
Camomile
Whenever anyone in my family gets an eye infection I turn to camomile tea. I’ve even used it on our pet guinea pigs and cat. Allow the tea to cool and bathe the infected eye using organic cotton pads or a clean flannel.
Calendula
I keep this on hand as an ointment to treat sore, irritated skin and also just to use as a lip balm or moisturiser. I like to grow it in the herb beds for the beautiful sunshiny flowers, which can be used in a number of skincare preparations and also as a colourful addition to a salad.
Comfrey
An ointment made from this plant is useful for treating bruises and bites. I have a large pot of this magical plant growing by the front door.
Peppermint
Peppermint tea can be used to treat indigestion or headaches. Pick a handful and steep in boiling water for ten minutes. Strain and drink as it is, or sweeten with honey to taste.
Arnica
I use the homeopathic remedy and cream regularly so always have some available at home. It can be used in cases of (non-medical) shock and to treat bumps and bruises.
Rescue remedy
Every home should have a little bottle of this blend of five flower essences. It can be used to treat mild shock, trauma and injury. Take five drops on the tongue or dilute in a glass of water for younger children.
Your herbal first aid kit
It is a good idea to put together a pack of remedies that can be used for first aid at home. There are many natural treatments that can easily be administered to treat the body in times of shock and distress. As well as having a good selection of remedies at home to treat emergencies, it might be worthwhile enrolling on a first aid course where you can learn the basics of administering first aid, such as how to deal with broken limbs and resuscitation skills, before medical help arrives. When putting together your natural first aid kit, you will want to have items such as bandages and a small pair of scissors as well as medicines made from plants.
You may want to make up a smaller kit for taking out and about. A portable kit that fits easily in a backpack is a good idea for holidays, walks and days out. Items that I would recommend for your portable first aid kit are marked with an asterisk.
Bites and stings
Stings are fairly common and easily dealt with using natural remedies. If an allergic reaction occurs seek the advice of a doctor.
Plantain can ease the pain and reduce swelling. Chew the leaf in your mouth and apply the masticated leaves as a poultice to the sting.
Lavender oil* can be applied directly to a sting.
Rescue remedy* If the person who has been stung is in distress, five drops taken on the tongue will work to calm the patient.
Aloe vera can be applied to the affected area. Split a leaf and spread the juice onto the skin.
* = recommended for your portable first aid kit
Mild shock
Mild shock can be successfully treated with natural remedies, however this condition should not be confused with medical shock which always requires medical attention.
Rescue remedy* to treat a patient who has experienced trauma.
Camomile tea can be calming for the nervous system. Brew a cup and encourage the patient to take small sips while still warm.
Lavender oil* can be used to aleviate shock. Place a few drops onto a handkerchief and inhale until the shock subsides.
Aconite, Arnica* and Ignatia are all homeopathic remedies that can be used to treat shock and distress.
For cuts and wounds
If possible, raise the cut above the level of the heart (e.g. if the cut is on the arm, lift the arm above the head). Apply direct pressure to the area and continue until the flow of blood stops, or in more serious cases until medical help arrives.
Aloe vera can be applied to cuts and grazes and will help skin to heal and prevent infection.
Tea tree* or Lavender oil* are used to clean wounds with a few drops of each diluted in warm water. This will also act as an antiseptic.
Hypericum and Arnica* are homeopathic remedies that can be used to help the body to heal.
Rescue remedy* can be applied directly to a graze to promote healing.
Comfrey ointment* can be applied to inflamed cuts.
Comfrey ointment
▸ 500 g (1¼ lb) soft beeswax
▸ 60 g (2¼ oz) dried (or 150 g / 5 oz fresh) comfrey leaves, finely chopped
1. Melt the beeswax in a glass bowl over a pan of boiling water.
2. Add the comfrey leaves and simmer, stirring continuously, for about 1 hour.
3. Pour the mixture into a muslin bag. Wearing rubber gloves, squeeze the mixture through the bag into a jug.
4. Pour the ointment into a jar before it sets. Place the lid on the jar, without securing it.
5. When cool, tighten the lid and store in a refrigerator for up to 3 months.
Burns and scalds
First pour cold liquid onto the burn or scald for at least 10 minutes, then use whichever of the following treatments you have available.
Aloe vera will cool the area and prevent infection. Split a leaf and gently apply the juice to the affected area.
Honey will help the skin to heal.
Apply to the affected area.
Lavender oil* can be used neat on a burn to promote healing and prevent infection. Gently massage a few drops into the affected area.
Sunstroke