Safe and Natural First Aid

Complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) is moving into the mainstream as more people embrace natural and safe methods of caring for their health.  Exciting new CAM therapies continue to emerge for conditions like cancer, diabetes and heart disease.  However, even the healthiest individual can harness gentle nature-based remedies for everyday minor injuries like cuts, burns, insect stings and bruises.  Dr. Smith recommends looking to nature for gentle and effective relief for the bumps and bruises of life.  Here are some natural remedies to try:

Cuts and scrapes:

• Plain cool water is best for cleaning cuts and scrapes.  Alcohol or hydrogen peroxide can irritate delicate injured tissue.
• Honey kills bacteria and protects tender skin.
• Tea tree oil kills bacteria and reduces inflammation.
• Besides protecting cuts and scrapes from infection, calendula extract speeds healing by stimulating the growth of new tissue.

Burns and sunburns:

• Aloe vera gel is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent that speeds healing while relieving pain and decreasing blistering.
• Apple cider vinegar can be applied to the skin with a spray bottle.
• An oatmeal bath is soothing to the skin.

Insect bites and stings:

• Mix a paste of water and baking soda to apply to the cleaned affected area.
• Activated charcoal absorbs toxins quickly.
• Homeopathic apis.

Bruises and sprains:

• Comfrey safely restores function and eases pain.
• Witch hazel improves micro-circulation, thus reducing inflammation.
• Homeopathic arnica.

For further tips on how to use these remedies, pick up this week’s Optimal Health University at your next adjustment. Dr. Barbara Smith
Chiropractor and Health Educator
health@doctorbarb.com