I've been under the weather the last several weeks. Finally experienced the ( COUGH,COUGH) for the first time. I guess I was lucky the last couple of years. One of the things I have noticed is that it doesn't quite seem to go away as quickly as it comes... Which of course got me to pondering my med kit that is in my bushcraft bag. And what I could use out of it or gather from nature to help alleviate symptoms. I have a long way to go studying natural remedies. I guess we never stop learning. So, if you read this and have suggestions, feel free to add your comments and knowledge!
To start this off i will list what i keep in m y med kit as far as medicines go. My mindset has always been to just keep what would be needed to treat symptoms of the most common ailments. Colds, Flu, Fever, Diarrhea etc. I have never given much thought into a prolonged illness out in the wild. Most of my medical gear is more geared towards injury. Clearly that is important, but as most will say it is the little things that get you down first.
Advil - Great for aches and pains and fevers.
Tylenol- Same uses as Advil.
Imodium- Starts to work within 30 minutes and can be effective for 8 hours.
Mucinex- Great for cold and flu symptoms and to help chest and sinus congestion.
Benadryl- used for allergy symptoms and to help itching, rash or hives.
Liquid I.V.- The powder supplement is a great electrolyte replacement.
This amount can be easily packed and does not way much. It covers the majority of what I might need for minor issues. While i have never truly been sick while out and about. I do believe we should have some means of modern medicine to help us along the way. I couldn't imagine being truly sick many miles from the comfort of home and medical help, it is important for all of us to be cognizant of that possibility happening. Especially if you spend your time on the trail alone. (Nothing worse than being sick alone).
Natural remedies for common ailments.
This list is by no means exhaustive or detailed in any way. Consult a physician before using any plant or tree for any purpose.
Plantain- Constipation relief by making tea from its leaves. Make a poultice from the leaves to relive insect bites.
Lemon Balm- poultice to relieve cold sores. Make a tea to help sleep.
Dandelion- tea to help indigestion.
Burdock- Hot poultice for eczema and acne. Or make a tea.
Yarrow- Anti bacterial and anti-inflammatory for cuts and wounds. As a tea for high blood pressure.
Meadowsweet and Willow- Natures aspirin, the plants contain properties that do not upset your stomach like synthetic aspirin does.
Trembling Aspen- decoction to reduce fever, pain and inflammation. also, the powdery coating on the bark can be used as sunscreen.
Pineapple weed- relieve upset stomach, diarrhea and cramps.
Yucca- roots for antiviral,bacterial,fungal soap.
Wild sage- Bug repellant, as a tea for infections, steam for asthma or lung infections.
There are some conditions to follow.
DO NOT PICK WHAT YOU ARE NOT 1,000% SURE OF.
SMALL AMOUNTS FIRST!
TRAIN AND LEARN FROM AN EXPERT!
LEARN HOW TO USE THE PLANT, DONT GUESS.
WHEN IN DOUBT....JUST DON'T.
The world of medicinal herbs, plants and trees is boundless...Literally you can spend a lifetime and never learn it all. If you are interested i highly suggest you find experts in the field and learn from them. There is a difference between tinctures and concoctions, or what part of a plant to use and when, how to harvest and why. While i firmly believe in educating yourself through books and videos... you absolutely must use caution, common sense and be taught. This is not an area of "learning on the fly". Having said that, it is very rewarding and beneficial to know your areas flora and fauna, Animals can teach us many things about plants and trees as well. Good luck and enjoy the outdoors in a new way!
As always
Keep your Paddle wet and your Powder dry
J
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