Natural Remedies That Work in an Emergency

When we are faced with an emergency, our first instinct is to rush to the hospital or call for professional help. While these are essential steps, it is also important to know that there are natural remedies that work in an emergency, often called a home remedy, before seeking medical attention, or to tide you over until professional help is available. When an emergency strikes, sometimes you only have a few minutes to think and make important decisions. If you’re off the grid or if the world is going through a tough time, sometimes you have to rely on natural remedies. Of course, this is just my opinion and you should always seek emergency medical advice from your doctor!

Some of these remedies are herbal remedies that have proven to be helpful for years. Although often called alternative medicine, there are people worldwide that have used them with confidence and with few side effects or reactions.

Burns and Cuts

Burns and cuts are common emergencies that can happen at any time. I personally think that burns and cuts can be the scariest because they shock us the most!

• Aloe Vera – Aloe Vera is known for its soothing and healing properties. It contains anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce the pain and redness associated with burns and cuts.
• Honey – Honey has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help prevent infections and promote healing. Apply honey directly to the affected area and cover it with a bandage.
• Lavender Essential Oil – Lavender essential oil has antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain and swelling. Mix a few drops of lavender essential oil with a carrier oil such as coconut oil and apply it to the affected area.
• Of course, always make sure you have a First Aid Kit on hand for all emergencies!

Allergies

Allergies can be severe and life-threatening, it’s vital to have a few tools up your sleeve to make sure the allergies stay under control and don’t turn into an emergency!

• Quercetin – Quercetin is a flavonoid that has antihistamine properties. It can help reduce inflammation and allergic reactions. Foods that are high in quercetin include apples, onions, and citrus fruits.
• Vitamin C – Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can help boost the immune system and reduce inflammation. It can also help reduce the severity of allergic reactions. Foods that are high in vitamin C include oranges, kiwis, and strawberries.
• Nettle Tea – Nettle tea is a natural antihistamine that can help reduce the symptoms of allergies. It contains compounds that block the release of histamine, which is responsible for the symptoms of allergies. It may reduce the incidence of a cough or its severity.

Headaches

Headaches can be debilitating and affect our daily lives, particularly if they are true migraines. There are some things you can do to help relieve the symptoms of some headaches!

• Peppermint Essential Oil – Peppermint essential oil has analgesic properties that can help relieve headache pain. Apply a few drops of peppermint oil to the temples or inhale it directly from the bottle.
• Ginger – Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce headache pain. Drink ginger tea or chew on a piece of raw ginger to help get rid of headache pain.
• Magnesium – Magnesium is a mineral that can help prevent headaches. It can also help reduce the severity and duration of headaches. Foods that are high in magnesium include spinach, almonds, and avocado.

Digestive Issues

Digestive issues such as nausea, vomiting, constipation, heartburn, and diarrhea can be uncomfortable and inconvenient. An upset stomach is no fun, particularly when experienced during an emergency. Give these remedies a try the next time you feel tummy illnesses coming on:

• Ginger – Ginger has anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea properties that can help with nausea and vomiting. Drink ginger tea or chew on a piece of raw ginger to alleviate nausea and other signs of indigestion.
• Probiotics – Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can help restore the balance of gut bacteria. They can also help you get rid of diarrhea and other digestive issues. Foods that are high in probiotics include yogurt, kefir, and kimchi.
• Peppermint Essential Oil – Peppermint essential oil has antispasmodic properties that can help with cramps and bloating. Mix a few drops of peppermint oil with a carrier oil such as coconut oil and apply it to the stomach.
• Some people have found that drinking a carbonated soda drink can also help settle down your upset stomach.
• If you feel your illness may be dehydration, be sure to drink plenty of liquids, and if severe, get medical help ASAP.
• Sometimes digestive issues are a result of poor diet habits. We all need to monitor our consumption of healthy foods with proper nutrients.

Anxiety and Stress

Anxiety and stress can be overwhelming and affect our mental health.

1. Lavender Essential Oil – Lavender essential oil has calming properties that can help alleviate anxiety and stress. Inhale lavender essential oil or add a few drops to the hot water in a warm bath to promote relaxation.
2. Chamomile Tea – Chamomile tea has calming properties that can help reduce anxiety and promote sleep. Drink chamomile tea before bed to aid in relaxation.
3. Exercise – Exercise is a natural stress reliever that can help promote the release of endorphins, which are feel-good hormones. Go for a walk or engage in any form of physical activity to relieve stress.

Sore Throat

A sore throat can be painful and make it difficult to swallow. I actually think out of all the sicknesses you can get, a sore throat is the worst. However, there are some natural remedies that work in an emergency to help with a sore throat.

• Saltwater Gargle – Saltwater gargle is a natural remedy that can help reduce inflammation and pain associated with a sore throat. Make a mixture with a teaspoon of salt and warm water and gargle for 30 seconds before spitting it out.
• Honey and Lemon Tea – Honey and lemon tea have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe a sore throat. Add a tablespoon of honey and the juice of half a lemon to warm water and drink.
• Slippery Elm – Slippery Elm is one of the herbal supplements that have soothing properties that can help reduce inflammation and pain associated with a sore throat. Add a teaspoon of slippery elm powder to warm water and drink.

Sunburn

Sunburn can be painful and cause skin damage. If you have small children that have gotten sunburnt, then it’s important to know what to do naturally in case you have a sunburn emergency.

• Aloe Vera – Aloe vera is a natural remedy that can help reduce inflammation and pain associated with sunburn. Apply aloe vera gel directly to the affected area.
• Milk – Milk has cooling properties that can help soothe sunburn. Soak a cloth in cold milk and apply it to the affected area. Uses for Powdered Milk
• Cucumber – Cucumber has cooling and anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce pain and inflammation associated with sunburn. Slice a cucumber and place slices on the affected area.

Ideas from Jennifer: Prep School Daily

Final Word

Natural remedies can be effective in emergencies and can help lessen the symptoms of various conditions. It is important to note that natural remedies should not replace medical attention in severe cases. If you have an accompanying fever with any of the challenges discussed above, that is certainly the time to consider getting professional help where prescription medications may be more appropriate. These remedies come as over-the-counter medications in many cases and can help alleviate the situation before seeking medical attention. Incorporating these natural remedies into our daily lives can also help prevent emergencies from occurring in the first place. What natural remedies that work in an emergency would you like to share? May God Bless this World, Linda

Copyright Images: Lavender Bath Soap Depositphotos_77130327_S, Fresh Aloe Vera Leaves, and Aloe Gel Depositphotos_274887698_S