Q: What can I do to keep my active family safe and healthy this summer?
Wednesday, June 25th, 2008
A: Summer is here with its sunny weather and fun outdoor activities. Along with summertime, comes the possibility of insect bites, poison oak rashes, injuries, and sunburns, but you don’t need to stay cooped up indoors. Stocking your medicine cabinet or first aid kit with certain natural remedies is a smart way to start “greening” your medicine cabinet and keeps your family prepared for common summer ailments.
Sunburns: Preventing sunburns with sunblocks, hats, and other cover-ups is essential. In case you miss a spot and still get sunburned, try applying Aloe Vera gel or Calendula spray to the affected area. In addition, homeopathic Cantharis can be taken internally to help sooth the pain and promote healing.
Poison Oak/Ivy Rashes: Hiking and camping is on many people’s list this summer. Be sure to look out for poison oak and poison ivy on the trails. Some people are more sensitive to these plants than others, and if you do end up with an itchy rash, try homeopathic Anacardium. If the rash continues with no reduction in itching or swelling, switch to homeopathic Rhus tox.
Bug Bites: Avoid synthetic insect repellants that are full of harmful chemicals. Instead, choose natural essential oils such as neem or citronella oils. For bee stings and insect bites, homeopathic Apis melifica can provide relief when there is pain, redness and swelling. Homeopathic ledum is helpful for insect bites and stings when the skin is punctured and the affected area feels cold. If you have an allergy to bees, do not delay treatment, seek healthcare immediately to prevent an anaphylaxis reaction.
Cuts and Scrapes: For minor scrapes and cuts, use topical Calendula ointment, salve or spray. Calendula heals and soothes the skin and is anti-microbial. For deep wounds, visit an urgent care center or emergency room for proper wound care. Once a deeper wound is beginning to heal, you can apply Calendula to help speed the recovery.
Bumps and Bruises: Arnica is the single most important natural remedy for trauma when there is soreness and tenderness especially to touch or pressure. It is useful for any kind of trauma including bruises, black eyes, and sore muscles. Arnica can be taken internally as a homeopathic and used externally as ointments, salves or sprays.
Whatever outdoor activities you have planned this summer, be prepared by creating your own “green” first aid kit to take along on outings. In addition to band-aids and other basics, consider some or all of the natural medicines mentioned in this article for your family’s kit. Keep it simple with a few remedies and straightforward instructions. Enjoy your outdoor activities knowing you and your family are ready for whatever summertime may bring.
About Homeopathy:
Homeopathically prepared remedies are commonly available in health food stores and many drug stores and are safe for people of all ages, including children and seniors. Homeopathic remedies in the 6, 12, and 30 C and X potencies are great for acute conditions and can be repeated as often as every 15 minutes and given up to about 6 - 8 times per day. For chronic or acute conditions continuing for more than a few days with no improvement, be sure to consult a professional homeopath.