Are you interested in creating a natural first aid kit to have on hand for minor injuries and ailments? Look no further! Building your own DIY herbal first aid kit is easier than you think and can provide you with natural remedies for all sorts of common health issues.
What is an Herbal First Aid Kit?
An herbal first aid kit is a collection of natural remedies that can be used to soothe and support common health issues. These kits generally contain items such as herbs, essential oils, tinctures and salves that have beneficial properties for immediate care of every day ailments.
Why Make a First Aid Kit with Herbs
Life is unpredictable and accidents happen when we least expect them. By having an herbal first aid kit on hand, you can be prepared for anything that comes your way! Whether it's a cut, a burn or a headache, your herbal remedies will have you covered.
DIY Herbal First Aid Kit
When putting together your herbal first aid kit, consider your own family and their potential needs. If you have children that often get scrapes and bruises, you'll want to have salves that soothe these issues. Maybe you suffer from headaches and your husband has digestive issues - in these cases you would more likely consider teas or tinctures.
Some common, easy-to-find, herbs to consider keeping in your kit are:
Calendula
Calendula is known for its anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties. It can be used topically to help soothe wounds, burns and rashes. Having some calendula salve or cream ready in your first aid kit can be a quick and effective relief for many skin ailments.
Lavender
Lavender is a versatile herb with calming and soothing properties. It can help alleviate stress, anxiety and headaches. Lavender can also promote relaxation and sleep. Consider including lavender tea in your kit for its calming effects during any emergency situation.
Echinacea
Echinacea is well-known for its immune-boosting properties. It can help reduce the severity and duration of colds and flu. Keeping some echinacea tincture or tea in your first aid kit is a great way to help support your immune system when the bugs and gook come around.
Arnica
Arnica is a popular herb for soothing bruises, sprains and muscle soreness. It has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, making it a great addition to your first aid kit. Consider including arnica salve or cream for quick relief of aches, bruises and strains.
Chamomile
Chamomile is most known for its calming, relaxing properties, but it can also help alleviate upset stomachs, nausea and indigestion. In addition, it is said to be soothing for eye irritation from styes and pink eye. Make up some chamomile tea bags to keep in your first aid kit for a comforting solution to any situation.
Beyond Herbs: Extra Supplies to Keep in Your Kit
There are a wide variety of extra supplies that will enhance your herbal first aid kit and the list below is by no means conclusive. However, we have found these additional items to be valuable in times of crisis:
- Hand Wipes
- Non-latex Gloves
- Gauze
- Bandages
- Medical Tape
- Scissors
- Tweezers
- Thermometer
- Organic Cotton/Wool fabric (for poultices and compresses)
By creating your own DIY herbal first aid kit, you can take control of your health and well-being in a natural way. Take inventory of your family's everyday ailments and then, add on every other possible scenario you can think of encountering. Do some research on common first aid herbs for these issues. Then, with a little preparation and knowledge, you can be ready to deal with most minor health issues no matter what the situation!
Disclaimer: This information has not been evaluated by the FDA and is not intended to diagnose, cure, prevent or treat any disease. Information is provided for educational purposes only, it is not to be used as medical advice. Use this information at your own risk. We are not responsible for dosage mistakes, misuse, or adverse reactions. Each person reacts differently to each plant and you should always exercise caution when taking herbal products. Always consult a medical professional before taking/using any herbal product.