| HERBAL FIRST AID
Herbs were in common use for injuries, wounds, bites, aches, and pains in ancient times and even as late as the middle of the nineteenth century all over the world. People working in or passing through the forested regions had easy availability of fresh herbs which were crushed and then rubbed or applied over the affected area to bring about a quick relief. Even now, one can be in a situation in case of a wound, or, a bite where a herb is more easily available than a modern medicine. Familiarity with herbs for such purposes is a self-help measure that provides confidence and safety. Remember � if there is no improvement in the condition after a short period, seek qualified treatment or call a doctor for advice. Here are the following herbs BITES AND STINGS In all cases of bites and stings involving the mouth or throat, especially with any difficulty in breathing, get medical aid immediately. Bee Stings: Remove the sting with tweezers. Cool the area with ice or cold compress. Wasp Stings: Clean the area with lemon juice or vinegar, and cool as above. Bites or Scratches: Clean the area thoroughly with water or surgical spirit. Treatment Chamomile, Lavender, Red Clover Apply a cold dressing to the area, saturated with a solution of Chamomile infusion, or essential oil of Lavender over the area. Where there is itching and inflammation, a cold compress of Red Clover infusion may be applied. If itching persists, use Chickweed Ointment. . BRUISES Treatment Comfrey, Lavender, Witch Hazel Comfrey: Where there is swelling, apply cold compress saturated in infusion of Comfrey. Later, or for minor bruises, apply Comfrey Ointment. Lavender: Apply cold compress with essential oil of Lavender at rate of 5 drops to I tablespoon of cold water. Witch Hazel: For swelling, with unbroken Skin, use cold compress of distilled Witch at rate of I tablespoon to 450 ml of cold water. |
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