In 2005, Hurricane Katrina struck New Orleans and caused intense flooding, communication failures, and damage to buildings and roads. Affected residents found it hard to get medicine to ease their aches and pains. This scenario and other emergency situations demand that you keep a stock of natural remedies for common medical conditions like scrapes and wounds. It is just as crucial that you know how to use these natural cures.
Here are natural remedies that don't cost much, but are just as effective as store-bought medicine in treating cuts, scrapes and other open wounds (h/t to Survivopedia.com.) These are not a replacement for an emergency room visit, of course. Consider these to be "emergency medicine" strategies for times when you can't readily access professional medical care:
- Eggs – The shell membrane, the clear film lining the shell, can treat minor scrapes and wounds. It can even act as a natural bandage. Unlike traditional bandages, you need not tie anything or look for adhesive to make the plastic strip stick to skin. Egg membrane is inherently sticky. It will adhere to the scrape or wound, and stay there.
- Teabags – Holding the tea bag over the wound for around ten minutes should stop the bleeding. Green tea bags are even more effective. They contain catechins, which are recognized for their antibiotic properties. Green tea also prevents viral infections. Teabags in general may be used for oral wounds after tooth extraction.
- Spider’s web – The sticky substance in spider's webs can serve as a bandage that dries up when exposed to air.
- White vinegar – This common household item also treats wounds. It stops bleeding and keeps microorganisms from growing on the wound. This way, it reduces the occurrence of infection and sepsis. Along with a coagulant and natural absorbent found on this list, white vinegar can help deep wounds heal quicker. A word of caution: Prepare to wince a little, since white vinegar is known to create a stinging feeling when applied to an open wound.
- Tea tree oil – Indigenous tribes in Australia have used tea tree oil for thousands of years to treat wounds and several skin problems. This home remedy has analgesic, antibacterial, anti-fungal, anti-parasitic, antiviral, antimicrobial, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory properties. You can store this natural remedy at home because, unlike synthetic medicine, it remains potent for a long time.
- Yarrow – This natural home remedy has been treating wounds on the battlefield for centuries. In fact, yarrow was dubbed as the "Battlefield Plant" during the American Civil War. To use as a poultice, all you have to do is mash up a collection of yarrow herbs. Powdered yarrow, on the other hand, can stop bleeding and inflammation.
- Turmeric – This bright yellow spice is great for relieving pain caused by open wounds. Turmeric can also fight inflammation, reduce bleeding, and speed up wound healing. Since it fights bacteria and viruses, turmeric also keeps wounds clean while they heal.
- Cayenne pepper – This natural home remedy is usually applied to an open wound in a tincture You'll need a bandage when you use cayenne pepper to treat wounds. Because it also fights bacteria and fungi, cayenne pepper also helps keep the wound clean as it heals. It can also keep wounds from bleeding.
You can grow these natural home remedies in your backyard to ensure a steady supply. Then, you can combine them for maximum effect. You not only save on cost. You're also assured of a ready supply of home remedies that has absolutely no side effects .
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