In the course of daily living, often we encounter minor emergencies such as colds, flu, cuts, scrapes, bruises, burns and the like. There is no reason to rush to the doctor with these, mothers used to take care of them all the time, and so can you. Here are a few tips on how to handle minor emergencies.
This page is just a taste of all the remedies you can help yourself with at home. The best resource I can recommend is The Herb Book by John Lust. I have used it for 24 years and it never fails. This book never goes out of print.
Kitchen cupboard remedies
Dill seed, fennel seed, anise seed and caraway seed all help with digestion. Cook cabbage family foods, which can give gas if not digested properly, with these seeds. You can also just brew them into tea, (one or more together), 1 tsp per cup of water to settle an upset stomach.
Rosemary is an aromatic herb that dilates blood vessels in the brain and thus is good for an ailing memory. It's also high in antioxidants
(contraindicated with blood thinner meds).
Chamomile tea is antiseptic and soothing. It's great to settle a colicky
baby or relax with after a hectic day. It is so gentle, it even makes a good eye wash for infections or irritations.
Headaches
Essential oil of lavender rubbed into the part that hurts.
Sleep disturbance
Lavender sachet under your pillow or a few drops of lavender oil help you relax. It's also a great moth repellent in your closet.
Dragon's blood
A South American herb, really the sap of a tree, which is antiseptic, antiinflammatory, antibacterial and more. It's fantastic on cuts, scrapes and burns.
Falls, bruises and fright
Homeopathic arnica montana (health food store) is the choice remedy. Do not touch by hand and take it away from food and drink. The Bach flower essence Rescue Remedy is wonderful to calm children and pets.
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