We know that having a first aid kit is very important, but many of us don’t have one. However, there are things in most kitchens that can help relieve minor maladies until you can get the professional help. All you need is a reasonably well stocked kitchen and a few tips.
Accidents, Injuries and Bug Bites
Bug bites can drive you up the wall, wanting to scratch and knowing you shouldn’t. For most of us, this causes us to be unable to concentrate or even sleep until something is done. There are a few things you can do. If your spice rack or herb garden has marjoram in it, make a tea of the leaves. In first aid dip a cloth into the liquid and lay it on the bite. You can also make a poultice of the leaves, though that can be messy.
Bruises can be treated with ice, but that’s not the only thing in your kitchen that might help. Tieing a slice of raw onion on the bruise and leave it for six to eight hours may help the bruise fade faster. It is thought that the sulfur compounds in the bulb are responsible for this action.
This content may also prove beneficial.
Herbalists and moms use a paste made of baking soda on stings, to help draw the venom out. The University of Maryland Medical Center’s Complementary Care site agrees that this is a good application. It must be pointed out that if you are allergic or you think you are having an allergic reaction, go to the emergency room.
Illnesses
Coughing can keep your entire household awake if it starts in the middle of the night. Fortunately, there is something you can do. Mix equal parts of honey with lemon juice and take one tablespoonful at a time. You can use the liquid concentrate most of us have in the back of the fridge. It isn’t a good idea to give honey to children under two unless your doctor has approved of it.
Sore throats can also be helped with this, but there is another remedy that may be better. One stick of cinnamon, a tablespoon of whole cloves and another of whole allspice can be put into two cups of water. Simmer the mixture until it has been reduced by half and take one ounce at a time. If you are diabetic, ask your doctor about using cinnamon, as it can have an effect on blood sugar levels.
Upset stomachs are another cause for an all night vigil. In first aid there are two things you can try to stop this reaction. First, scrape the flesh of an apple away from the peel and consume it. This can also help with diarrhea. Oatmeal may be another good option. These remedies are safe to use for morning sickness as well as general upset stomachs.
There are a lot of things in your kitchen that can stand in when you have difficulties and can’t get to the store or doctor. However, once you can consult with him or her, it is a good idea to do so. No article can take the place of proper medical care.
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