When living in a populated area there is the luxury of having modern medicine right at your fingertips. Develop the flu– a sunburn– or perhaps cut your finger? No worries… there’s probably a franchised pharmacy nearby. And within, you will find a Willy Wonka sized selection of remedies for every ailment imaginable.
While this sure is convenient– as preppers we know better than to take items essential to your health for granted. We believe in having back up plans.
Here’s one for your side pocket…Did you know that there are numerous items found in a kitchen cabinet that work in the medical field as well? Not only that, but they are natural, versatile, and interchangeable too.
Below I have compiled a list of common materials that have been known to aid in minor injuries and illnesses. Use them in the event of an emergency, or simply if you are looking to embrace natural healing.
Disclaimer: The following suggestions have been gathered from research. I do not claim to be a doctor- I just believe in being resourceful.
Honey
More than just a delicious sweetener– honey is the jack of all trades. It has been used for centuries as medicine because of its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory makeup.
- Cleans and heals wounds (also keeps the bandage from sticking to the area)
- Works as a cough suppressant
- Soothes sore throats
- Relieves the sting of burns and can even prevent infection
- Boosts energy and eases fatigue
- Helps indigestion and acid reflux
- Use as a laxative
- Apply a thin layer for lip balm
Coconut Oil
Many people swear by coconut oil- claiming that it helps improve you both inside and out (I agree!). It is used in beauty, and also for these following medical needs.
- Cures fungal infections
- Skin problems- (acne, eczema)
- Bug bites
- Insect repellant
- Helps in digestion
- Increases energy
- Use as a mild sunscreen
- Heals dry skin
Tea Bags
Drinking tea has been proven to be excellent for your health. But did you know that the left over tea bags can also be used for healing?
- Chill a tea bag to soothe a canker sore
- Relieves sunburns (try throwing some in a bath!)
- Stops minor cuts from bleeding (BLACK or GREEN TEA bags)
- Helps bruises heal more quickly
- Warm a bag for relief from a toothache
Lemons
Having this citrus fruit in your home or backyard could be a lifesaver. Full of vitamin C and other goodness, they have been utilized for their antiviral and immune boosting abilities.
- Calms anxiety
- Stops dizziness
- Inhaling the scent can heighten concentration and alertness
- Treats the cold and flu
- Fights exhaustion and fatigue (simply suck on a lemon)
- Mix with honey to cure bug bites
- Bug repellant
- Use on corns and calluses
- Flu remedy- mix the juice of a lemon with hot H20 and honey
Baking Soda
This natural white powder is one of the most useful items in your pantry. It is awesome for 1001 reasons, including helping you feel better.
- Make a paste to apply to beestings
- Mix ½ teaspoon with 1 cup of water for heartburn relief
- Create a foot soak bath to help aching feet.
- Use as an alternative toothpaste product
Or…Grow a Pharmacy in Your Own Backyard!
A great way to be self-reliant is to grow your own natural medicine in a garden. Discover which ones thrive in your neck of the woods, and start planting! Here are some suggestions:
- Aloe
- Yarrow
- Thyme
- Chives
- Peppermint
- Cat Nip
- Basil
In Conclusion:
A key to preparedness is always having a backup solution. There are so many ways to practice self-healing if perchance a pharmacy was unavailable. I suggest conducting your own research to find common items and plants that have incredible benefits to your health!
Once again, these uses have been compiled from respectable articles and sites– not because I am medically trained. Hopefully it motivates you to learn more on the topic!
By Kathleen Shipman, Writer for Gear Up Center
Photo Credits: (Tea, Coconut, Medicine- Petr Kratochvil) (Lemon Honey- Sahneraum) (Bee- Byrev) (Baking- George Grimhowell)