Herbal medicines for the first aid kit

Herbal remedies for the first-aid kit

06/29/2012

Millions of Germans are looking forward to their holiday in the south in these weeks. But the hoped-for relaxation on the beautiful beaches on the Mediterranean, in the Caribbean or in the Far East is often severely disturbed by health problems. A carefully arranged first-aid kit therefore belongs in every baggage. It should also contain scientifically well-studied herbal medicines. Experts from the Munich-based Committee for Research Natural Medicine e.V. (KFN) therefore recommend the following preparations:

For the digestive area:
- helps against constipation: Flohsamenkraut
- for gastric disorders, a combination of Bitter Cosmos Flower (Iberis amara) and eight other medicinal plants
- against bloating, flatulence, and pain in the upper abdomen a preparation of artichoke leaves

For respiratory infections and colds:
- for catarrh of the respiratory tract and cough an ivy preparation
- for bronchitis a combination of thyme
- against inflammation of the paranasal sinuses and common cold a combination of cowslip (Primula veris)

For the musculoskeletal system:
- against sprains, bruises, muscle and joint pain an ointment from the comfrey root
- for leg pain and leg swelling a preparation of horse chestnut seeds or red vine leaves

For stress and sleep problems:
- against inner turmoil and nervous sleep disorders a preparation of Valerian, possibly in combination with hops, lemon balm or passion flower
- against tension headache a peppermint oil preparation for external use

Important: Medicines should not be left in the car. They must also be kept away from heat and sunlight.

Image: filorosso.eu - Manfred Gerber