Homeopathy for Bruises, Bites and Burns

The long days of summer are finally here and we can kick off our shoes and relax. Or can we? If you are a parent or an active outdoors type, there are many incidents that can interfere with a vacation or general summer enjoyment. Fortunately, with just a handful of homeopathic first aid remedies, you can put together a kit that will help you deal with minor injuries effectively.

Your basic homeopathic first aid kit would contain the following remedies:Arnica, Apis, Cantharis, Hypericum, Ledum, Nat sulph, Rhus tox, Ruta. You may also want to invest in Calendula Mother Tincture. Most of these are available at pharmacies carrying homeopathic remedies (if not, they will order them in for you). In terms of dose, a 30c is easily available and usually safe to use at home.

The information below is meant to serve as a guideline. Common sense must also be used and if you are unsure of the dose or you are dealing with a serious condition or worsening symptoms, you should consult a professional.

Bruises: Arnica is the main remedy. If the area affected is rich in nerves (toes, fingers, face, tailbone) then Hypericum is also indicated.

Burns: For second degree burns use Cantharis. Once the blisters open up, you can bathe the burn in a solution of a few drops of Calendula mother tincture in water.

Falls or blows to head: Arnica and Nat sulph are needed to deal with a hard blow to the head.

Insect bites and stings: For most bites or stings (black flies, mosquitoes, wasps) Ledum is the remedy of choice. If a bee sting is involved, then Apis will bring quick relief. For a bite from an animal, you would want to use Arnica,Hypericum and Ledum.

Poison Ivy: Rhus tox, which is made from the Poison Ivy plant, will deal with the itching and discomfort of this rash.

Puncture wounds: Ledum is the first remedy to give for puncture wounds. You may also want to give Hypericum, particularly if there are shooting pains associated with the wound.

Sprains: The most effective way to treat sprains is to use Arnica, Rhus tox andRuta.

As you can see, Arnica is the main first aid remedy. If I could only have one remedy to take with me, this would be it. It helps deal with both the physical and emotional shock of an accident or injury, the bruising, damage to tissue, inflammation, excess blood loss and pain. Calendula mother tincture is also very useful. It must always be used diluted and helps the skin mend and heal quickly.

Wishing you the best of what this summer has to offer and good health with which to enjoy it.