Herbal solutions for Preppers (Part 1 of 2). As Preppers, we are only too aware of the fact that over the counter medicine will disappear quickly when the SHTF happens. For that reason, I have decided to do today’s post on Herbal medicine and Essential oils that every Prepper should know about. Hopefully You will learn a few new things today that will help you in the future. This post was written by my wife…(aka “The General”) I hope you like it.
Antibacterial – Many of us are turning to essential oils due to the increase of illnesses that have become antibacterial resistant. Essential oils like basil, cassia, cinnamon, clove, cypress, eucalyptus, geranium, lavender, lemon, marjoram, myrrh, orange, oregano, peppermint, rosemary, tea tree and thyme are great for the fight against bacteria.
Antiviral – Studies have found that some essential oils can help control viral infections and include: basil, cassia, cinnamon, eucalyptus, frankincense, lemon, lemongrass, marjoram, tea tree, myrrh, oregano, and thyme.
Chamomile Oil – This herb is most known for relaxing and calming properties. But it can also be used for skin conditions such as acne, eczema, rashes, wounds, dermatitis, dry and itchy skin and other allergic conditions as well. Chamomile oil has anti -inflammatory properties and is good for ear infections too.
Citrus Oils (grapefruit, lemon, mandarin, orange, tangerine) – Citrus oils are mood-enhancing oils, but each have other medicinal benefits. It help with toxin buildup, acne and stress. Sweet orange oil, is especially good for colds and flu’s, gum and mouth problems and slow digestion.
Eucalyptus Oil – Eucalyptus oil also has antibacterial and antiviral properties, but is most known for its use as a decongestant. Please remember, it must be diluted for safety. The diluted oil is taken by mouth for pain and inflammation of respiratory mucous membranes, bronchitis, nasal stuffiness, sinus pain and inflammation. It is also used as an expectorant to loosen coughs, as an antiseptic, fever reducer and in works great inhaled in warm vapor. It has been found to help heal wounds and burns. Diluted eucalyptus oil can be rubbed directly to the skin for pain. It is also used as an insect repellent.
Frankincense – Frankincense essential oil is a powerful herb! It can be used as an antiseptic and be directly applied to wounds without any side effects. It also protects the wound from tetanus and becoming infected. Frankincense can also help to stop bleeding from wounds and cuts. Its astringent property also helps to relieve diarrhea of various types. It’s also an antiseptic and can be used to prevent mouth and tooth infections if used as a mouthwash. The other properties include use as a disinfectant, digestive, diuretic, expectorant, sedative, tonic, uterine and helps to heal wounds faster applied as a lotion or cream. Absolutely a must have for your preps!
Lavender Oil – Lavender oil has antiviral and antibacterial properties. Use it to for calming effects, to help with insomnia, as well as for first aid, sunburn, and to boost immunity. You can use lavender topically for painful conditions like migraine headaches, toothaches, nerve pain, sprains, sores, and joint pain.
Oregano Oil – Most used to treat respiratory issues, such as asthma, bronchitis, coughs and croup. It is also used to treat gastrointestinal (GI) problems, such as bloating, gas and heartburn. Great for menstrual cramps, and urinary tract infections. It is also great at ridding and keeping parasites away, allergies, sinus pain, arthritis, cold and flu, swine flu, fatigue and earache. It is applied to the skin for acne, athlete’s foot, dandruff, canker sores, warts, ringworm, rosacea and psoriasis. Great for insect and spider bites, gum disease, muscle pain, toothaches and varicose veins. Oregano oil is also used as an insect repellent applied to skin and clothes.
Peppermint Oil – Peppermint oil has both antibacterial and antifungal properties. It can soothe rashes, ease mouth, skin and joint irritations. It can help to relieve nerve and muscle pain, as well as headaches. Peppermint oil can be used for digestive issues and can help to bring your fevers down. It can act as a decongestant with colds as well. You could put peppermint oil in a large container of hot water. Lean over the container and using a towel, create a cover for your head so you can inhale the steam, to reduce bronchial congestion.
Tea Tree Oil – Tea tree oil has antifungal and antibacterial properties. You can use it on your skin for cuts, scraps. Not recommended for deep cuts or punctures as it heals quickly and deeper injuries may not heal deeper inside. Great for acne treatment, burns, lice treatment, bug bites, or as a bug repellent. If you have a fungal infection, it can be used to treat athlete’s foot or ringworm on your skin or on your nails. Other uses include toothaches, infections of the mouth and nose, sore throat, and for inner and outer ear infections.
There are many useful herbal oils but if I had to choose just a few, these would be on my “must have” list. Be sure to pack some of these in your preps, and be sure to include seeds and carrier oils as well in your preps for use in the future.
Please come back tomorrow for part 2 of this 2 part post. In part 2, we will share a few recipes for creating salves and rubs with these oils. Until, next time, keep on prepping!
-The General-
