As summer gets into full swing it is often easy to forget that among the fun and sun of summer days, there are also specific safety issues that we need to be aware of and things that you need to be prepared for. Carrying a first aid kit in your car or tote bag when you travel is always a good idea and here are some great natural and environmentally friendly items that every summer first aid kit should contain and that you probably already have lying around your house:
Vinegar: Vinegar can help draw the pain and sting out of a sunburn and can also be used to treat jellyfish stings. (Note that vinegar SHOULD not be used to treat a sting that comes from a Man of War because it will make the injury worse.) Vinegar can also be useful for treating other stings such as wasp stings.
Tea: Whenever traveling you should keep bags of chamomile tea, peppermint tea, and ginger tea handy. The chamomile and ginger can help with diarrhea which is often common when you travel. The chamomile and peppermint are great for treating indigestion and nausea. Additionally, chamomile is a natural way to relax and helps you to get a better night's sleep when you may be having a restless night in a strange place. The ginger also works well for curbing motion sickness and morning sickness for those who are traveling while pregnant. Tea bags, particularly black tea, can also be used to treat insect bites and abscess by drawing out the fluid and minimizing swelling.
Neem Oil: This is great for drawing out the venom of insect bites and helps to sooth the area as well.
Aloe Vera Gel: Aloe Vera is great for treating burns, including sun burns, and helping the healing process.
Meat Tenderizer: Believe it or not, meat tenderizer actually draws out the poisonous venom from insects and jelly fish.
Witch Hazel: Works great to help reduce swelling and makes a good astringent and antiseptic.
These are just a few simple things that you can add to your summer first aid kit. Check out this guide to creating a full herbal kit as well.