For centuries, people have passed down the wisdom of herbalists and "wise women" through stories and practical applications. Before the advent of modern medicine, people relied on their own medicine men and women to heal their illnesses and protect their minds and bodies. Fortunately, science has validated some of these traditional herbal remedies, creating more options for treating common ailments. Therefore, a helpful addition to a person's conventional first aid kit is an herbal remedy kit. However, before using herbs to treat any condition, talk to a doctor.
Aloe Vera
For minor wounds, burns and inflammation, aloe vera is helpful as a quick first-aid treatment. A 2009 study conducted by the Jondishapur University of Medical Sciences showed that aloe vera is an antimicrobial and antifungal agent when applied topically. To use fresh aloe from the plant, break off a leaf and split it in half. Scoop up the gel and apply it directly to the skin. Bottled aloe vera can also be purchased at pharmacies.
Arnica Cream
According to "The British Journal of Dermatology," the topical application of a 20 percent arnica cream effectively reduced bruises when applied twice a day for two weeks. Preparations containing arnica should not be applied on broken skin.
Calendula
This flower, also known as pot marigold, has long been hailed as a powerful skin-healing botanical. Its petals can be used to make infusions, ointments and compresses, all of which are useful for wounds. A 2009 study in the "Journal of Basic and Clinical Physiology and Pharmacology" showed that 90 percent of wounds treated with calendula extract healed within eight days, compared with 51.1 percent in the control group. All wounds should be thoroughly cleaned before applying calendula.
Eucalyptus Oil
This oil's major component, 1,8 cineole, is an anti-inflammatory and analgesic agent, according to "Phytotherapy Research." It is useful against a range of bacteria, viruses and fungi. Traditionally, it has also been used to ease respiratory ailments, such as asthma and bronchitis, as an inhalant. Essential oil diffusers are widely available for this purpose.
Lavender Oil
"The Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences" says that lavender essential oil is effective against both gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. Use it undiluted over small areas for insect bites and minor burns. For small cuts and grazes, dilute the oil in water and use it as a wash.
Considerations
Before using any herbal treatment, consult a professional health-care practitioner. Those who have sensitive skin or a history of allergies should perform a small patch test on their skin. Like all medicines, herbal remedies should be stored safely away from children.
References
- "Giornale Italiano di Dermatologia e Venereologia: Organo Ufficiale, Società Italiana di Dermatologia e Sifilografia"; Aloe Vera in Dermatology: A Brief Review; Feily A., Namazi MR; February 2009
- "The British Journal of Dermatology"; Accelerated Resolution of Laser-induced Bruising with Topical 20% Arnica: A Rater-blinded Randomized Controlled Trial; Leu S, Havey J, et.al.; Apr. 20, 2010
- "Journal of Basic and Clinical Physiology and Pharmacology"; Wound Healing Activity of Flower Extract of Calendula Officinalis; Preethi KC, Luttan R.; 2009
- "Phytotherapy Research"; Antiinflammatory and Antinociceptive Effects of 1,8-cineole a Terpenoid Oxide Present in Many Plant Essential Oils; Santos FA, Rao VS; June 2000
- "Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences"; Antibacterial Activity of Essential Oils from Palmarosa, Evening Primrose, Lavender and Tuberose; M.H. Lodhia, K.R. Bhatt, et.al.; March-April 2009
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