Meet healing head-on with herbs

If you are fascinated by the idea of herbal first-aid, but simply don’t know where to begin, here is how you can put together your very own natural remedy kit from scratch.

Before you begin gathering your items, get yourself a spacious storage container. Once you have bought the right bag, which you can carry while travelling, or a plastic container, you can start filling it with the necessary items you need to tackle an unexpected emergency situation.

Let’s start with some standard items

The very basic items include a supply of bandages, adhesive tape, small scissors, a magnifying glass, gauze wraps and assorted band aids. Additional supplies include alcohol swabs, natural floss, toothpicks, needles, safety pins, matches, a hot water bottle, candles and ice pack.

Next on the checklist are herbs

At the top of the list is organic aloe vera; it can be used for a variety of things from healing burns to bee stings as it accounts for speedy wound healing. But refrain from using it on infected burns and wounds as it will seal the wound and cause the bacteria to multiply.

Secondly, get lavender oil. It helps relieve the infection pain caused by stings and burns. It is a must-have in your natural first aid kit.

Include chamomile tea bags in your kits as well. It is best known for its relaxation qualities and helps keep the nervous system calm. Small sips of this tea will help in settling down the overactive nerves in your body and also help relieve indigestion.

Finish off with additional first aid essentials for common conditions

• Honey has potent skin healing powers; scalds and burns dressed with honey heal faster. Dissolve a spoonful of honey in warm water and drink it to relieve congestion. It also helps strengthen the immune system and gives you enough energy and stamina to complete your daily tasks, without feeling run down or tired.


• Powdered clay aids to draw out thorns and splinters. Mix it in a small amount of water and apply it on the affected area. It will draw out the splinter after it dries.


• Garlic cloves are also very useful. Rub raw garlic cloves directly over cuts and small scrapes as it is antiseptic in nature. Colds and coughs are also best treated with garlic. Candied ginger would be a bonus in your kit to soothe motion sickness and upset stomachs.


• Don’t forget to add dark chocolate. This is less for your sweet tooth cravings and more to make you feel better and distract you from pain because it contains natural serotonin.


• Lastly, add lemon balm to your kit to help keep your digestive tract calm. It also aids in relaxation and sound sleep.

Published in The Express Tribune, Sunday Magazine, February 3^rd, 2013.

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