We keep extensive first aid kits in the truck, in our bug out kit, in every bathroom, and even the kitchen. Full of band aids, tweezers, scissors and a multitude of things. But one thing I keep in a safe place is my essential oils. Ready to grab if need be, and use. These tiny bottles have so many uses, and can help heal the body.
While I feel there is a time and place for seeking medical help (our youngest having allergic reactions? ER instantly!), I’ve come to realize in many cases I can help us without going into being seen. The town we live in has grown so fast, that I rarely can get a same day appointment anymore, and we end up having to drive to the next town over, to Urgent Care.
A couple of things stand out of late:
- A few months back Alistaire had a good ‘oops’ and cut his hand open with a saw, it was between 2 fingers. Seeing blood, I tossed him in the truck and tore down to Urgent Care. However…..all they did was soak his hand in warm water (I kid not) for 30 minutes, then air-dried it. Then they applied medical grade super glue and a few butterfly bandaids. That was a $50 co-pay. In the end, I treated him with Melaleuca oil (Tea Tree Oil) topically, to make sure it didn’t get infected. Having watched them do it, next time (OK, let’s hope there isn’t a next time with Mr. Saw!!) I will soak his hand, and once cleaned, tape it up. Pretty simple, really. Frankincense and or Helichrysum is good for applying with coconut oil to help with scarring.
- Last winter I picked up a confirmed case of Influenza. It marks my second time to get it in my life. When I went in to be seen, I sat in Urgent Care for multiple hours (even with advance online reservations!). It was horrid. I was so cold, and hurt so bad. Even after I was taken back, I sat for an hour in the room, under an air vent. Had I not taken a blanket with me, I don’t think I’d have been willing or able to lay there. In the end, 3 or 4 hours later, all they could do was say “Yes, you have the flu. Stay hydrated, take pain meds as needed, and here’s Tamiflu to take”. So…Tamiflu? Yikes. The side effects were so bad that I only made 3 out of 5 days with it. It left me feeling paranoid, insomnia, horrible stomach pains and a lot more. In the end, unless I felt at severe risk, I will stay home, stay hydrated and drink hot lemon tea with my essential oil diffuser on (peppermint is great for settling the stomach), and cleaning with citrus oils to sterilize. And save a $50 co-pay, plus being exposed to a ton of other sick people. Including the lady with a mixing bowl in her lap, that was her barf bucket.
If you were to just keep a dozen oils on hand, here is what I would recommend:
- Clove (Do not use on children under 2 years old)
- Frankincense
- Helichrysum
- Lavender
- Lemon
- Melaleuca (Tea Tree Oil)
- Myrrh
- Orange
- Oregano (Do not use on children under 2 years old)
- Peppermint (Do not use on children under 6 years old)
- Roman Chamomile
- Rosemary (Do not use on children under 6 years old)
As for the how to use them, I highly suggest a good unbiased book on how each oil works best.
Disclaimer:
The FDA has not evaluated the statements on this website. No claims are made as to any medicinal value of this oil. The information presented here is for educational purposes of traditional uses and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any diseases. Information on this site is not intended to be a substitute for medical or professional advice. Keep essential oils out of reach of children. Should you have a pre-existing medical condition, please consult your trusted health-care practitioner before using these products. Pregnant women should exercise caution when using essential oils. By using this site, you agree to indemnify administrators and owners for any and all responsibility regarding your wellbeing.