Naturopathic First Aid.

We all love summer, but it's a good idea to be prepared for any first aid situations that may arise.  Keep a first aid kit handy, and use the following recommendations as guidelines.  Always consult a health care practitioner if you are concerned.If you're building a first aid kit (vs. buying a pre-made kit), here's a basic list of items to include:-10-20 small adhesive bandages-scissors and tweezers-sterile gauze-adhesive tape-alcohol swabs-calendula cream-hypericum tincture (St. John's wort)-tea tree oil-Vitamin E oil-lavender essential oil-Rescue remedyHere are a few ideas for common summer first-aid scenarios:1. Sunburn:It's important to distinguish between 1st, 2nd and 3rd degree burns.  1st degree burns are pink and/or red and are hot to the touch; these are the most common type of sunburn and can be treated at home.  2nd degree and 3rd degree burns involve significant skin damage are much more severe, and require medical attention.  While a 3rd degree burn is unlikely with a typical sunburn, 2nd degree burns can occur. Do not apply topical treatments to 2nd and 3rd degre burns.Cool down with a cool shower, bath or compress.  For mild burns, try making a compress with witch hazel. Add 1-3 tsp to cold water, and apply over affected areas using a face cloth or small towel.  Aloe Vera gel is also very soothing, and excellent for sunburns. Vitamin E oil can be applied to help heal the burn once the pain has subsided.  Break open a capsules and place the liquid on the burn twice a day.  Oral Vitamin C is an antioxidant and helps skin to heal by promoting the formation of collagen.  500 mg 4x/day is a usual dose.Homeopathic Urtica urens 30C, can be taken every 10 minutes as needed for a sunburn that feels prickly and burning.Homeopathic Cantharis 30C if the burn is accompanied by swelling, and if the person is angry and/or irritable.2.  Scrapes and Abrasions:For minor scrapes and abrasions, clean the area with warm water, or a hypericum solution made of 10 drops of hypericum per 1/4 cup of water.  Once clean apply calendula cream to the area and cover with sterile gauze.  Topical Vitamin E can be applied once the scrape is healing and there are no signs of infection (redness, heat, etc).Homeopathic Arnica montana 30C can be given every 10 minutes as needed until symptoms improve.  Arnica is indicated for any injury that involves bruising, swelling or pain. CPR Certification West Palm Beach will teach how to perform this life saving service.3.  Insect BitesIn most cases, insect bites are a mere nuisance.  But, some people do show signs of allergic reactions to insect bites.  Symptoms to watch for include: swelling of the throat, hives, difficulty breathing, weakness, abdominal cramps. Seek emergency medical attention in these cases.To help prevent insect bites, wear protective clothing, and make sure that shirts are tucked into pants and that pant legs are tucked into socks. Citronella oil can be applied to exposed skin to deter insects.To relive the itch of insect bites, apply a with hazel, or white vinegar compress made of 1 tsp applied to gauze.  Alternatively, 1 or 2 drops of lavender oil can be applied to bites.Homeopathic Apis 30C can be used for bites that show signs of swelling.  Homeopathic Ledum 30C is especially useful for any puncture wound, especially if the person if feeling chilly.4.  NosebleedsNosebleeds are very common, especially in children.  They are most often due to a burst blood vessel, or injury.  More serious causes of nosebleeds include head injury's or falls.  A minor nosebleed should stop within 5-15 minutes.  If a head injury is suspected, or the bleeding does not stop, seek medical attention.Begin by tilting the head forward to allow the blood to drain. Pinch the fleshy part of the nose for 10 minutes, or until the bleeding stops. Do not blow the nose.Homeopathic Phosphorous 30C is indicated for a nosebleed that will not stop.  The blood is bright red, and the person is chilly.  Dose every 2-5 minutes. Homeopathic Arnica 30C can be used if the nosebleed is due to an injury.These are just a few common first aid situations that may arise during the summer. Be sure to come in and talk to your ND if you have specific questions about building a naturopathic first aid kit.  And, if you are looking for book to add to your bookshelf, check out 'Naturopathic First Aid' by Dr. Karen Barnes, ND.