6
AILMENTS
ABSCESSES
An abscess, or boil, is a painful, inflamed bump on the skin resulting from an accumulation of pus that has formed due to an infection somewhere in the body. Recurrent episodes of abscesses and boils generally point to a depressed immune system. A boil or abscess requires external treatment and may include lancing. Some abscesses, such as those of a dental nature, require professional help.
Bringing it To a Head
To bring a boil to a head, gather fresh plantain leaves and crush them with hot water. Plantain is a common weed that grows all over Europe, Asia, and the Americas. Both the broad-leaved (Plantago major) and the narrow-leaved (P. lanceolata) species may be used. If you aren’t familiar with and easily able to identify the fresh plant, you can use dried plantain if you have it in your first-aid kit. Take the resulting herbal mash, cool it slightly so that it doesn’t burn the skin, and apply it to the boil. A gauze bandage will help hold the plant material in place. This will soften the boil and draw the pus to the surface so that the infectious matter can be expelled. Apply tea tree oil several times a day to the area to clear up any infection. I have also used a clean washcloth soaked in a basin of hot water to which 10 drops of lavender essential oil have been added. Squeeze the hot water from the cloth and hold it to the abscess until it cools. Repeat several times. Be certain both the basin and your hands are clean.
Sometimes it’s important to keep the abscess open so that it can drain. I have heard that it’s possible to put a small “wick” made of clean gauze in the wound that will not only maintain an opening but will also draw out pus and other material. The gauze should be changed several times a day. This may not be possible with a small abscess.
A Typical Protocol for Clearing a Boil or Abscess
My son once got an abscess from an unclean earring, obtained while traveling, I might add. Several days later, when he returned home, he asked me to loosen the stud because it was “too tight.” As it turned out, the earlobe was swollen and quite inflamed with infection. I used the following protocol to clear the abscess, with one exception: Instead of applying the recommended clay poultice, I used an antibiotic ointment, not knowing that this would close up the abscess. The earlobe appeared to be healed for several days, even weeks, and then festered and became swollen again. This occurred four times. On the fourth time, I did two things differently. First, I used the clay poultice rather than the antibiotic ointment and second, suspecting a systemic infection, I gave my son echinacea-goldenseal tincture. (See appendix A, Children’s Dosages.) The abscess did not return.
DRYING CLAY POULTICE
I learned how to make this from Rosemary Gladstar one wonderful summer in Vermont.
ALLERGIES, HAY FEVER, AND HIVES
Hay fever is the name given to a specific allergy to airborne pollens from hay and grass. The medical term is allergic rhinitis. Symptoms can range from mild to severe and include a runny nose, watery eyes, sneezing, and a general feeling of malaise. While normally not critical, if the allergy is severe enough, hay fever can induce a form of asthma, which can be serious.
All allergies, whether hay fever or not, are an inflammatory response to toxins the body is unable to cope with. Normally and under optimum conditions, our livers are able to process most offending toxins. I say optimum because these days there are so many exogenic (environmental) toxins with which our bodies must deal, that even relatively healthy individuals have become susceptible to allergies. Our livers have become overburdened and more and more often I hear people say that they’ve recently developed allergies they hadn’t had as children.
Since allergies involve both the liver and the body’s inflammatory response, it’s useful to treat both areas when dealing with allergies. There are also specific remedies for hay fever and the hives, which often accompany food allergies.
Working the Liver
An excellent herb for the liver is milk thistle (Silybum marianum). It’s both a tonic and a regenerative. I recommend taking this herb on a regular basis while traveling, whether or not you show symptoms of allergy, simply due to the way that the stresses of traveling can affect the liver. The recommended dosage is 30 to 40 drops of the tincture in a small glass of warm water three times a day.
I also recommend taking some kind of bitters on a daily basis, either as food or in a tincture. Bitters can be either a bitter salad green such as dandelion leaves or wild chicory, or a tonic formula made from bitter herbs. They strengthen the immune and nervous system and have a beneficial effect on the digestive system. If you’re traveling in the Mediterranean countries, bitters should be easy enough to come by in your diet alone. Many of the bitter salad greens we eschew (unfortunately) in this country are widely available in places such as Italy, Greece, France, and many of the Middle Eastern countries. A popular dish in Iran and other Middle Eastern countries is called sabzi. Many Middle Eastern cultures have their own version, and all are delicious. In general, sabzi contains a mixture of raw, bitter greens. These are eaten prior to the main portion of the meal, somewhat like an appetizer, and they have the same effect that all bitters do on the digestive system, which is to stimulate the production of digestive enzymes and bile, thus ensuring a well-digested meal. Try including some sort of bitter green in your daily diet while traveling. If greens are unavailable, you can take bitters as a tincture half an hour before meals. Most health food stores sell a bitters formula; Swedish Bitters is a well-known example. And if you forget to include it in your kit, many bars and taverns will be happy to sell you the occasional aperitif made with either Campari or Angostura Bitters.
The Inflammatory Response
Despite its well-deserved reputation as a mild, gentle herb, chamomile (Matricaria recutita) has an excellent anti-inflammatory action and can be used successfully as a natural antihistamine. It’s often a favorite herb because it can be given safely, even to children, and has so many differing beneficial properties that it should be included in all herbal first-aid kits. One note of caution: I have occasionally heard that since chamomile is in the same botanical family (Compositae) as ragweed, a plant often associated with hay fever, it should not be used as a treatment for allergic rhinitis. This doesn’t make sense to me. Many of the most popular herbs are in the Compositae family and are used successfully every day without allergic reactions. They include dandelion (Taraxacum officinale), echinacea (Echinacea spp.), calendula (Calendula officinalis), and many more. The reality is that allergies are highly individual in nature; a person could be allergic to any number of herbs. I have also heard that less reputable sources of chamomile may include “grasses” in the mix, which are themselves responsible for the allergic reaction. If you at all suspect that you might be allergic to chamomile, either don’t use it at all or try it in a very small quantity—a couple of sips of tea—and see whether you have any reaction. Actually, this is good advice when trying out any new herb, especially if multiple allergies are a problem for you. Be sure to buy your herbs from trusted sources.
The easiest way to take chamomile is as a tea. It’s very calming and has a pleasant fresh “yellow” taste. That sounds unusual, I know, but once you try it, if you haven’t already, you’ll understand. The standard dose is 2 teaspoons of dried herb to 1 cup of hot water. Let it steep for 5 to 10 minutes before drinking. I find that steeping it longer imparts an unpleasant metallic aftertaste, but I seem to be the only person I know who feels this way, so see what you think. Start with 2 cups a day.
Turmeric (Curcuma longa), the spice used in Indian cuisine, is also an excellent anti-inflammatory and does double duty as a liver protective. Taken alone, it has a rather strong taste, but it’s not at all difficult to find Indian food all over Europe and Asia, so it should be easy (as well as fun) to get it through your diet.
Another natural anti-inflammatory is bromelain. This term refers to a group of enzymes, capable of digesting protein, that are present in the stems of pineapples. There is evidence, supported by double-blind research, that bromelain is helpful for individuals with sinusitis. Sinusitis, an inflammation of the sinus passages, is sometimes a result of reactions to airborne allergens. The general recommendation for taking bromelain supplements is 2,000 MCU (milk clotting units) three times a day.
Specific Remedies for Hay Fever
Up until a couple years ago I took Claritin, a common prescription pharmaceutical, for my year-round allergies. I had been on it or some sort of prescription antihistamine for approximately ten years. Wanting to try a natural approach, I visited my health care practitioner, Dr. Lois Johnson, who recommended a personalized tincture based on my constitution and particular complaints. It has worked very well. One of the herbs in my formula is eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis). Eyebright has both anti-inflammatory and astringent actions and has long been known as a specific herb for many eye conditions, such as conjunctivitis, and for problems associated with the mucous membranes. In particular, it seems to work well for the itchy, watery eyes associated with hay fever. It combines well with other herbs and is found in many popular allergy formulas available at health food stores. If you have allergies, it would be well worth your time to try out one or more of these formulas prior to traveling. One caution: I recommend staying away from formulas containing ma huang (Ephedra sinica), commonly listed as ephedra. Although a traditional herbal antihistamine, ephedra is a powerfully stimulating botanical that should be used with caution, especially if you have high blood pressure. It should never be given to children. All herbs will have varying degrees of potency depending on the environmental conditions where they were grown and the methods used to harvest and store the plant material. Ephedra, in particular, seems to vary substantially, and it can be difficult to find the correct dosage.
My favorite herb for assuaging the symptoms of hay fever is the common nettle (Urtica dioica). Yes, this is the same plant known as stinging nettle that’s often responsible for painful welts and a stinging sensation if you inadvertently bump into it while hiking. I like to think of it as a strong “teacher,” helping the wayward individual become more aware of his or her surroundings. This plant is on my top 10 list. It’s an excellent tonic herb, strengthening the body in a gentle and consistent manner. It can be used safely by both adults and children and is readily available. For hay fever, it seems to have the most beneficial effect when used fresh. This is difficult, of course, because the nettle plant has tiny hairs on its aerial parts that contain formic acid—the same substance in bee venom and the constituent responsible for the contact dermatitis and pain when brushed against the skin. There are companies that freeze-dry the plant, assuring that most of the botanical substances responsible for the antihistamine effects are left intact and simultaneously removing the ability of the plant to “sting.” This particular preparation is probably the best way to take nettle for hay fever symptoms. The recommended dose is 2 to 3 capsules three times a day.
Vitamin C also appears to have antihistamine properties, although research has been somewhat inconclusive. Most alternative health care practitioners recommend 1,000 to 3,000 milligrams of the supplement daily. Reactions to vitamin C are highly individual. I’m able to take fairly high amounts (5,000 milligrams a day) without problems, but I do this only occasionally. Generally, the current literature recommends taking vitamin C to “bowel tolerance,” which means that if you begin to experience loose bowels or diarrhea concurrent with an increase in vitamin C consumption, you have taken too much. For the most part, people experience little difficulty with the dosage range noted above.
Another supplement that seems to beneficially affect hay fever is the bioflavanoid quercetin, especially if taken in conjunction with vitamin C. The recommended dosage is 400 milligrams of quercetin two to three times a day. Quercetin is not an inexpensive supplement, so if you don’t notice positive results in a week or two, discontinue its use.
There are a number of homeopathic remedies on the market that treat hay fever. As with most alternative remedies, their benefits vary from individual to individual. They seem to work quite well for children and are fairly safe, even for infants. However, I do recommend that if you wish to give your young child homeopathic medicine, it’s best done under the supervision of someone trained in this modality.
As with many over-the-counter homeopathic remedies, it’s possible to buy a formula that treats multiple hay fever symptoms, sort of the shotgun approach; or you can purchase individual remedies if you have specific symptoms you wish to treat and you know them precisely. If you’re medicating yourself, the trick is to be able to match your particular set of symptoms to a specific remedy. While you can’t really harm yourself if you choose the wrong remedy, results will be minimal and frustration high. If you have access to a homeopath, and your hay fever is severe, it might be wise to consult him or her first.
Hives
Hives are a reaction to an allergen that causes the body to create reddish welts, which itch terribly. Often the allergen is a food, but it can easily be any substance, including antibiotics and over-the-counter medications. In some cases the hives can spread over the entire body; left unchecked, they may spread to the respiratory system, making it difficult to breathe. In such a situation, which may be life threatening, medical treatment is required immediately. Do not try to treat a reaction of such severity yourself.
As with any severe itching, it’s helpful to calm the body, psyche, and soul. A sedating nervine tea or tincture is useful at such a time. Try a calming tincture made from the following herbs: 1 part linden flowers (Tilia spp.), 1 part skullcap (Scutellaria spp.), 2 parts catnip (Nepeta cataria), 1 part lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), and ½ part peppermint (Mentha x piperita). See the section on making tinctures in chapter 1 for more information on how to make this yourself. Take 30 to 60 drops in a little warm water to begin with, and follow with 10 to 15 drops every hour until the itching stops. Five to 7 drops of lavender essential oil added to a warm bath will help calm the body as well.
A soothing paste can be made of green clay and water. Spread this mixture over the hives and allow it to dry. If you’ve made up some Drying Clay Poultice (see page 54) ahead of time and happen to have it with you, use this instead. The echinacea and goldenseal contained in it won’t hurt, and you get another double-duty product. Some people find calendula creams useful as well. There are a number of such products commonly available on the market, and they can easily be carried in a travel first-aid kit.
Oats are particularly soothing to the skin. While rolled or cut oats supposedly no longer have calming constituents, I think I’d try slathering a cooled, runny oatmeal over hives if nothing else was available. When you’re traveling, sometimes you have to think creatively and use what’s at hand.
ANXIETY
Anxiety is the term used to describe feelings of excessive concern, worry, or panic. The range of emotions felt varies from situation to situation and person to person. Often the feelings appear to have no source—there seems to be no reason to be nervous, yet the fear persists. Anxiety can be accompanied by physical sensations, particularly as the level of anxiety increases. Examples are rapid heartbeat, sweaty palms, nervous stomach, muscle tension, dry mouth, and diarrhea. We’ve all felt this way before—when introducing ourselves at a company function, or prior to meeting our prospective in-laws for the first time (or fifth!). I must admit to an ever-increasing level of anxiety each time I fly. I grew up on airplanes, it seems, and I never experienced any fear. Now, as an adult, flying has become nerve racking at best. It’s not the delays and inconveniences, although they probably contribute to the situation. It’s a nameless fear of what might happen and an increasing belief that these jumbo, streamlined buses with wings shouldn’t be defying gravity—they have no business doing so. I know this is irrational and so I fly, but not without my lavender essential oil, personal meditative routines, and mandatory glass of white wine.
There are also individuals who experience a very real and extreme sense of anxiety during what are commonly called anxiety attacks. There are good alternative therapies for this syndrome, including the remedies discussed below, but the subject is too broad for me to cover here.
There are a number of alternative therapies useful for anxiety, and all travel well. Herbally speaking, kava (Piper methysticum) is probably my favorite. Pharmacists believe that the pharmacological effects are due primarily to kavalactones, constituents found in the fat-soluble part of the root. This would explain why kava is traditionally served combined with coconut milk, a substance high in fat. The coconut milk makes it much more palatable as well!
Kava is a Polynesian island plant and was historically imbibed only by tribal royalty. Served in a traditional kava ceremony, it was often given to rival tribes who had come to talk treaty. Kava has a calming effect and promotes sociability. Since it engenders a pleasant sense of tranquillity, an alert mind, and no desire to hack apart tribal enemies, it became a very useful tool at such diplomatic occasions.
In addition to containing anti-anxiety properties, kava works as a sedative, analgesic, and muscle relaxant. Current studies indicate that it does not appear to work in the same way as benzodiazepines (a class of pharmaceuticals including Valium), in that kavalactones do not bind to the benzodiazepine receptor sites. You shouldn’t mix kava with prescription anti-anxiety or antidepressant medication, however, unless you’re under the care of a health care practitioner. Nor should kava be taken concurrently with alcohol.
Kava is most conveniently taken either in capsule form or as a tincture. I’ll warn you—it has quite an interesting taste. As a member of the pepper family, it carries quite a “bite”—not so much a feeling of heat as one of numbness. If you don’t relish the idea of having a numb throat, capsules will work best for you. The dosage depends on the percentage of kavalactones present in the herbal preparation. Used to fight anxiety, 70 to 85 milligrams of kavalactones would be appropriate. This would approximately correlate to a 250-milligram capsule containing 30 percent kavalactones. Harold H. Bloomfield, M.D., recommends starting with the dosage above in the evening. If this doesn’t work, you can take another dose in the morning and add a third at midday if your anxiety continues. If you’re like me and anxiety plagues you situationally, perhaps prior to flight, take a dose several hours before boarding, and another just prior to takeoff. Remember not to drink alcohol while taking kava. In addition, do not use kava if you have Parkinson’s disease or are pregnant or nursing. One other warning: Some people have an adverse reaction to kava in the form of headaches that, in a few cases, can be quite severe. I suggest trying kava prior to traveling to ascertain your own reaction. Most folks have no problem at all.
Another excellent herb for anxiety, especially when it’s chronic, is chamomile (Matricaria recutita). Christopher Hobbs writes in Stress and Natural Healing, “Don’t underestimate chamomile. It is considered a mild herb, but if you make a strong tincture or tea and take enough of it, it can produce miracles.” Hobbs recommends 1 to 2 cups of chamomile tea, three times a day. He does warn, however, that a very strong tea can cause vomiting. I’ve never known anyone to have such a reaction to chamomile, which is often used to settle the stomach, so I believe it would have to be a very strong infusion indeed to produce such an effect. It’s easy enough to pack chamomile tea bags in your carry-on luggage, or even to slip a few in your pocket. Most places will serve you a tea setup if you ask. As noted in the section on allergies, some individuals may be sensitive to chamomile, resulting in allergic symptoms. For more information, read the section on page 57.
Many of the same nervine herbs that are used to treat stress can be used as remedies for anxiety. They include valerian (Valeriana officinalis), California poppy (Eschscholzia californica), lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), passionflower (Passiflora incarnata), and lavender (Lavandula angustifolia). Please read the sections on insomnia and stress for more information on these particular herbs.
As an alternative therapy, aromatherapy works extremely well when anxiety becomes an issue. Not surprisingly, a few of the same plants that are beneficial for anxiety when taken as herbal preparations are similarly useful in essential oil form. Both lavender and chamomile, specifically German chamomile (Matricaria recutita), are good examples. Do as your granny did and carry a cotton handkerchief dosed with 5 to 7 drops of lavender or chamomile. You can discreetly hold your hankie to your nose and take a few deep breaths. Having been intimately involved in the technological revolution of the late twentieth century, I admit that I demand predictable, noticeable results—now—with the emphasis on noticeable. I must say that essential oils don’t necessarily comply. They are much more elusive and work their magic best when you aren’t watching. So don’t expect immediate relaxation after taking a sniff of your lavender handkerchief. Half an hour later, however, when you’ve forgotten the word anxiety, you may notice how much fun you’re having—what a surprise!
You can also make a spritzer with your favorite anti-anxiety blend of essential oils. To do so, fill a 2-ounce bottle that has a spray top with distilled water and add 20 to 30 drops of essential oils, either a blend or a single oil. Simply shake and spray. My favorite mixture of essential oils to spritz when I’m stressed is 18 drops of lavender, 8 drops of sandalwood, and 4 drops of rose. Unfortunately, this is a costly blend. Real rose essential oil sells for more than $200 an ounce. Sandalwood is protected, and while it’s not currently as expensive as rose essential oil, it’s produced from the heartwood and roots of the tree, making it in many ways more dear. Please use it wisely and judiciously. Other essential oils that have proven useful for anxiety are bergamot (the essential oil used to flavor and scent Earl Grey tea), patchouli, marjoram, jasmine, clary sage, neroli, and melissa. For more information on their specific properties and uses, read Kathi Keville and Mindy Green’s excellent and informative book, Aromatherapy: A Complete Guide to the Healing Art.
While an essential-oil-laced handerkerchief and spritzers are handy on the go, a warm footbath in your hotel room can also work wonders. Fill the tub partially with hot water—you’re only going to sit on the edge and soak your feet. You can get away with a little more essential oil (10 to 15 drops) than what you’d normally use for a full bath, since feet (and hands) are a little less sensitive. Try 6 drops of lavender, 3 drops of peppermint, and 3 drops of bergamot. Read the room-service menu and dream about what you might eat in bed—with no one to tell you differently.
Rescue Remedy, a blend of five different flower essences discovered by Dr. Bach, is a natural for treating anxiety. If you’re feeling anxious, try a couple of drops of Rescue Remedy either directly under your tongue or in a glass of water. If the anxiety persists, repeat the dose 15 minutes later, and continue every two to three hours throughout the day. You cannot overdose yourself with flower essences, but if one doesn’t seem to relieve the symptoms within a day, it’s not the “correct” essence for you. Pear flower essence, produced by the Master Flower Essence Company, may be used in similar situations as Rescue Remedy. If you’re also using the spritzer mentioned above for treating anxiety, try adding 4 drops of Rescue Remedy to the blend for an increased effect. I once made a spritzer for work with lavender essential oil and Rescue Remedy. One day I organized a meeting between several of my internal customers and a vendor who was known to be particularly tough to deal with. Thinking ahead, I sprayed the empty room with the spritzer five minutes prior to the meeting. Within fifteen minutes, all participants had settled down and were cooperatively discussing the topic at hand.
Several other flower essences are traditionally used to alleviate anxiety. Aspen, in particular, is good for “anxiety that has no known reason.” Mimulus is indicated for “excessive anxiety and nervousness about daily life,” while the Mustard flower essence is recommended for anxiety in general.
Phosphorus, or Phos., as it is commonly labeled on homeopathic remedies, is a specific for anxiety. Symptoms that indicate its use are nervousness under pressure, a tendency to keep emotions inside, and a fear of illness or death. Dr. C. Norman Shealy, the author of The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Natural Remedies, notes, “As a homeopathic treatment, it is mainly given to those suffering from anxiety and digestive disorders.” Take as discussed in chapter 3.
I have one last recommendation. Its beauty is that it can’t be carried, only borrowed. I am speaking of your breath and its use as a tool for relieving anxiety. The next time you feel anxious, spend a few minutes “watching” your breath and posture. My guess is that your shoulders are lifted and hunched, and your breath is quick and shallow. You can fool your body by consciously creating the physical symptoms that are the hallmarks of a calm state. Begin by dropping your shoulders. Now, close your eyes and begin to take deliberate, slow breaths. Breathe in through your nose to a count of 4 and exhale to a count of 7. Take another breath in this manner, and then another. Continue slow, conscious breathing while focusing on the physical sensations this deep breathing brings. Within minutes, your body and mind will begin to relax. Try this when your plane is taxiing down the runway prior to takeoff.
The bane of the athletic gym attendee, athlete’s foot is caused by a fungus known as Tinea pedis. It causes burning, itching, and inflammation in and around the toes and on the feet. It spreads easily and is often picked up in public showers and damp floors, such as those in a gym bathroom. One way to prevent the infection is to wear bath shoes or waterproof sandals in a public shower or bathroom. The fungus likes to grow in damp, dark places—such as sweaty feet encased in socks and shoes. Therefore, one way to prevent or relieve a case of athlete’s foot is to go around barefoot as much as is safe and possible. In addition, the use of drying remedies, such as vinegar- or clay-based products, is an excellent way to eradicate the infection.
A number of herbs and essential oils have antifungal properties. Garlic, berberine-containing plants such as goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) and Oregon grape (Mahonia aquifolium), usnea (Usnea spp.), and black walnut (Juglans nigra) hulls are all terrific for killing the fungus that causes athlete’s foot. Tea tree, lavender, and clove bud essential oils can also be used. Both lavender and tea tree essential oils may be used neat—that is, dabbed straight on the toes and feet. Clove bud essential oil should be diluted in a bit of carrier oil before applying.
Athlete’s Foot Treatment
The following protocol may be used to treat a case of athlete’s foot while traveling or at home.
ATHLETE’S FOOT DUSTING POWDER
You can make this up ahead of time and carry it with you in a clean spice jar that has a shaker top and lid. Sprinkle it on your feet and in your socks before putting on your shoes.
BLEEDING
This ailment needs no description. The first-aid rules for stopping the free flow of blood are well known, but I’ll summarize them here:
From an herbal standpoint, there are a number of herbs with hemostatic properties (they assist in stopping hemorrhaging and internal bleeding) and styptic properties (they reduce and stop external bleeding). These herbs work because of their astringent action and coagulating effects. Examples of such herbs are yarrow (Achillea spp.), shepherd’s purse (Capsella bursa pastoris), cayenne (Capsicum spp.), white oak (Quercus alba) bark, and goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis).
Often, excessive bleeding can be fairly traumatic for both the person injured and those nearby. Remember that Rescue Remedy or Pear flower essence (see chapter 4) is an excellent remedy for emotional trauma and should be used for everyone involved.
Internal Bleeding
Internal bleeding, or hemorrhage, can be an extremely serious condition, and it’s highly recommended that you seek professional help immediately to ascertain the extent of the injury. Nothing should be taken internally if the bowel has been perforated unless a qualified physician recommends otherwise.
On a less serious note, when I entered my forties I noticed that my periods began to come more frequently, and on occasion more heavily (due to small uterine fibroids). On one such occasion I found that I needed to change my tampon every fifteen minutes. I took 1 dropperful of Hemorrhage Tincture every fifteen minutes until the flow lessened, and I was able to continue with regular activity. The Hemorrhage Tincture may also be used for nosebleeds.
HEMORRHAGE TINCTURE
1 part yarrow
1 part shepherd’s purse
Use a standard method for making herbal tinctures described in the section on tinctures.
In all cases, follow the first-aid protocol above. For superficial cuts that do not respond quickly to pressure, a powdered styptic herb may be the answer; it’s wise to have several of these on hand. I keep powdered yarrow, cayenne, and goldenseal in my first-aid kit, because they’re useful for a number of complaints. Sprinkle the herbal powder directly on the wound. Any of them will work to help coagulate the blood and astringe the area.
BLISTERS
Ouch—these do hurt! Try to be proactive and cover sensitive areas of the feet before putting on those hiking boots or shoes, especially if they’re new or if you expect to be walking long distances. I’ve started carrying adhesive bandages around with me in my purse or pocket when I know I’m going to be on my feet for a while. The minute I feel any irritation at all, off come the shoes and socks, and on goes the bandage. My husband, a thirty-year Sierra Mountain backpacking veteran, once gave me some excellent advice: “Don’t tough it out; there’s no shame in stopping and taking a look at what hurts.”
Moleskin, a soft fuzzy cloth with an adhesive backing, is an imperative if you’re backpacking or trekking around in hiking boots. You can purchase moleskin in varying degrees of thickness, so shop around to see what might suit you best. If you have the room for it in your bags, it sometimes works well to have several different sorts. Follow the instructions on the package for application. You’ll need scissors to cut it to the required size, so don’t forget to take along a small pair. Many Swiss Army knives include a tiny pair of scissors, which will work just fine.
What to do if you do get a blister? To begin with, resist the temptation to pop it. Doing so increases the risk of infection, and the blood serum (the fluid inside the skin pocket) helps keep the tissues clean and allows the injury to heal. Try to keep the blister dry and clean. A little aloe vera gel or calendula (Calendula officinalis) salve can be applied to the blister; top it off with a bandage. At night be sure to remove the bandage to allow the blister to dry.
If the blister ruptures on its own, or if it’s severe enough for the skin to have been partially or completely rubbed away, put a few drops of Roman chamomile or lavender essential oil in a cup of water, stir, and apply to the open skin with a bit of cotton. An herbal antiseptic salve may be applied afterward, before you bandage the wound. The priority here is to keep the blister clean, which may mean changing bandages and reapplying salves throughout the day.
That same husband who gave me such good advice forgot to take it himself and ended up with two severe blisters on each heel. So he could complete a lengthy backpacking trip that had been in the planning for months, we devised a complicated procedure for his blister management. Both morning and evening he removed the bandages, cleansed the blisters with soap and water and hydrogen peroxide, and applied an antiseptic salve. To bandage the blisters, he cut pieces of gauze the size of each blister and placed them over each wound. Over these he placed a relatively thick moleskin that had been cut in the shape of an elongated doughnut, the center hole exactly matching the piece of gauze. Next came another piece of moleskin, thinner this time, which lay whole over the first layer. This setup created a clean, protected area over each blister. It also took quite a long time to complete and wouldn’t be my first recommendation, but he was out in the middle of nowhere and something had to be done. If you do get blisters, the best possible remedy is to stay off your feet as much as possible and let them heal (so to speak!).
BLOODY NOSE
Nosebleeds have a number of sources and can be fairly dramatic. Generally a broken capillary is the culprit, from either a cold or hay fever. As with other types of bleeding, pressure applied to the bridge of the nose works best. The common approach used to be to tilt the head backward to keep the blood from coming out of the nose. However, this just causes the blood to drain to the back of the throat and, in a severe nosebleed, may cause choking. Current thought recommends lowering the head to the knees and maintaining pressure on the bridge of the nose. A cold compress can also be used. Soak it in cold water to which several drops of lavender essential oil have been added to help with trauma.
BRUISES
A bruise, technically known as a contusion, is caused by a blow to the body resulting in broken capillaries, which leak blood to surrounding tissues. Left to heal on its own, a bruise will generally disappear in a few weeks. Sometimes unexplained bruising is due to a deficiency in vitamin C.
One of the best herbs for healing a bruise is arnica (Arnica montana). This tall, mountain plant bears daisylike yellow flowers. Available as a tincture, it is recommended for external use only, except in very small quantities and then only under the supervision of a knowledgeable herbalist. The exception to this is when arnica is taken as a homeopathic remedy. Because it is present in such minute amounts in a homeopathic dose, it causes no toxicity.
Apply arnica cream, salve, gel, or homeopathic spray to any area of the body that has been banged up for any reason. You can also make an arnica compress by adding 60 drops of arnica tincture to 1 cup of warm water. Soak clean gauze or a cotton cloth in the solution and then apply it to the injured area. Leave in place for 20 to 60 minutes. Do not apply arnica to broken skin, which will cause undue irritation, unless it’s in the form of a homeopathic spray.
Internal doses of homeopathic arnica may be used in addition to topical remedies. You can buy homeopathic arnica at your health food store. An appropriate strength is 30x (or 30c). Internal homeopathic remedies are taken either as tiny pellets left to dissolve under the tongue (sublingually) or as liquid drops.
Bruising can also be relieved with St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum). Apply St. John’s wort oil directly to the skin. One advantage this herb has over arnica is that it can be applied safely to broken skin, as long as the area has been cleansed first.
If you prefer, try an essential oil compress. Using the same method as for arnica, above, soak a clean piece of gauze or a washcloth in 1 cup of warm water to which 5 drops of essential oil have been added. Use lavender, chamomile, or geranium essential oils, either singly or as a blend. Apply the wet cloth to the bruise for as long as you or the patient will allow, ideally 20 to 60 minutes.
Summer would not be complete without reminders from the insect world that we humans are not alone in the outdoors. A simple remedy for bug bites and stings is to gently tie a slice of onion in place over the site; this can work wonders. There are a number of other natural steps to take as well.
The rule of thumb with a bee sting is to ensure that the stinger has been removed—otherwise the bee’s irritant will continue to enter the skin. Look for the stinger immediately after being stung and scrape or pull it out. Some people have severe allergic reactions to bee stings. If you begin to have problems breathing, develop hives, or the site of the sting becomes quite swollen and infected looking, be sure to see a health care practitioner at once.
Plantain (Plantago spp.), which grows all over the North American continent and is often unwelcome in suburban yards, makes an excellent topical remedy. It comes in both broad-leaved (P. major) and narrow-leaved (P. lanceolata) varieties, and the two work similarly. Plantain is composed of tannins, which are astringent in action and will help relieve any sting as well as reduce any itching and swelling. To use, choose several leaves and either macerate (chew) them to make a “spit poultice” or chop them finely to produce a pulpy mixture. This can then be applied as a poultice to the bite or sting. Cover with gauze and tie in place. Relief should arrive within 15 minutes. Fresh chickweed (Stellaria media) also works well as a quick-relief poultice. Make sure that you’re comfortable identifying both these plants before using them, and don’t chew or use any that have been sprayed with insecticide or herbicide.
Another remarkable remedy is Drying Clay Poultice (see the recipe on page 54). Just dab it onto the bite or sting and let it dry. The lavender essential oil relieves itching and stinging, the echinacea-goldenseal tincture prevents infection, and the clay draws out toxins. This paste can also be used on infected insect bites.
Speaking of lavender essential oil, it’s also very effective used alone on insect bites and stings. Beause it’s one of the few essential oils that can be applied directly to the skin without being diluted, just place a few drops on your finger and rub it onto the bite or sting. Lavender essential oil relieves pain and inflammation and has antibacterial properties as well. Peppermint essential oil, which has an immediate cooling effect, is also a wonderful remedy for bee stings Because peppermint oil has a rubifacient action (stimulating blood flow), the chemicals in both the bee venom and those produced by the body as a reaction to the sting will quickly be carried away.
If the bite or sting becomes infected, take echinacea (Echinacea spp.) tincture. Usually ¼ teaspoon in 1 cup of warm water several times a day will do the trick. For more stubborn infections, goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) or osha (Ligusticum canbyi) tincture is effective. I like to use small doses of 5 to 10 drops more frequently—every one to two hours. If an infection doesn’t clear up in a week, or if it worsens, seek professional care.
Sometimes insect stings take a long time to resolve. In this case try taking echinacea-goldenseal capsules every three hours. The reaction should discontinue within a couple of days.
A bunion is really a form of bursitis, an inflammation of the bursa, and in this case settles in at the soft tissue surrounding the base of the big toe. It appears that women are more prone to the affliction than are men. One of the causes is badly fitted shoes. Given the fact that women, more than men, wear abominable shoes for the sake of fashion, it doesn’t surprise me that we end up with more bunions.
In addition to ensuring that shoes fit properly, it helps to go barefoot as much as possible. If you’re traveling a long distance by air or in a bus or car, remove your shoes and replace them with some heavy-duty comfortable socks. The idea is to relieve any prolonged pressure to the base of the toe.
Because chamomile (Matricaria recutita) is a strong anti-inflammatory, drinking its tea several times throughout the day will help relieve some of the pain. If you’re using chamomile tea bags, you might try placing one directly on the bunion as a kind of poultice before tossing it in the garbage. St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum), an herb that works directly on neural tissue, can be taken both internally as a tincture and externally in the form of an oil or salve rubbed directly on the bunion. If you’re using the tincture, try 30 drops three times a day. This herb can increase photosensitivity in humans, although you seldom hear of any problems. Taking it for a short duration—three weeks or less—shouldn’t pose a threat. Take it longer than that and it might be wise to limit your exposure to the sun.
Chamomile and lavender essential oils—both useful for many external pains—can effectively relieve the inflammation and discomfort associated with bunions. While lavender can be applied directly to the foot, chamomile essential oil should be diluted in a bit of vegetable oil prior to application. Mix 5 drops of chamomile essential oil with 1 ounce of carrier oil. Gently massage a bit of the resulting oil into the bunion several times a day and before retiring.
BURNS
My all-time favorite burn remedy is lavender essential oil applied neat. It can work magic on minor burns. One Christmas, I decided to make peanut brittle candy. As I was pouring the boiling syrup on the cookie sheets, a bit dropped on my antique oak table. Without thinking, I scooped it up with my finger. The pain was sudden and intense. A deep blister immediately began to form, and I rushed to put my finger under cold running water. After letting the cold water run on my finger awhile, I dried it, coated it well with lavender essential oil, and put on an adhesive bandage. Within only fifteen minutes, the pain was mostly gone and by the next morning the burn seemed to have resolved itself. It never did blister and I lost no skin.
Still, herbal remedies are best left for first-degree burns; more serious burns should be treated professionally, especially if they’re large. However, there are a number of good herbal treatments for less severe burns. To begin with, always cool the burn by letting cold water run over it or by immersing it in a cold-water bath for a minute or more. Then you can apply a topical remedy to relieve pain and speed the healing process. Although many of us were brought up to apply butter to a burn, current thought indicates avoiding oil-based products unless the burn is very small.
Many people practice herbal first aid each time they use aloe on a small kitchen-related burn. My mom keeps a small aloe plant in her kitchen that she uses frequently . . . unfortunately! To use the aloe plant, simply snip off a bit of a leaf, open it up lengthwise, and apply the cool gel inside to the burn. You can also buy aloe gel or products especially for burns containing aloe in the health food store. Make sure the product contains a high percentage of aloe—at least 90 prercent.
I make a salve that works well on burns. I like to use it after the heat has subsided—maybe a day later. To make it, follow the general instructions for making salves in the section on oils and salves.
BURN SALVE
⅓ cup fresh plantain
⅓ cup calendula
⅙ cup chamomile
⅓ cup lavender buds
⅙ cup rosebuds
⅓ cup comfrey leaf
2½ cups olive oil
2 ounces beeswax
1 tablespoon lavender essential oil
Make an herbal oil with the herbs. After straining, add the beeswax to the warm oil (you may have to reheat the oil a little so that the beeswax can melt—or, if you’re using melted beeswax, so that it doesn’t curdle). Once you have tested for the correct consistency, add the lavender essential oil, stir well, and pour the mixture into little jars.
If you don’t want to make your own salve, there are many on the market that are similar to the one above. Look for plantain (Plantago spp.), calendula (Calendula officinalis), St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum), aloe, and comfrey (Symphytum officinale) as ingredients. You don’t need them all—just a few.
St. John’s wort oil is an effective treatment for burns once the heat has subsided, especially combined with an herbal oil of dandelion blossoms. The common dandelion blossom (Taraxacum officinale) is an excellent anodyne, bringing pain relief. Next time, pick your dandelion blossoms for medicine rather than cursing and spraying them!
Believe it or not, another great remedy for burns is cold black tea. My great-aunt Mollie, a nurse in the Philippines in the early 1920s, learned about ice tea and burns while on duty there. I got to try it out when I singed my calf on the exhaust pipe of a motorcycle. We happened to be at a burger joint, so I got a large glass of iced tea and poured it slowly over the burn, which was about the size of a silver dollar. I don’t necessarily recommend this, but the nurse in the emergency room did say that the burn looked clean and was healing very nicely. It appears that the tannic acid in black tea restores the acid balance of the skin while helping the proteins in the top layers of the skin form a kind of protective covering.
Sunburn
Despite all the warnings we get to stay out of the sun, people still manage to overdose. For the most part, use the same types of treatment noted above for burns. Aloe gel stored in the refrigerator is soothing applied to parched, sunburned skin. Or make a pleasant spritzer with 1 cup distilled water, ½ cup aloe gel, and ½ teaspoon lavender essential oil. Just put the mixture into a spray bottle and use.
Herbal baths are also wonderful for sunburn because you can totally immerse the body and soak for a while, giving the herbs more time to work. For herbal baths, I usually make a really strong infusion on the stove and then add it to the bath. Good herbs for sunburn would be comfrey (Symphytum officinale), lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), plantain (Plantago spp.), and calendula (Calendula officinalis). A time-honored remedy for sunburn is an apple cider vinegar bath: Just add a cup of apple cider vinegar to the bathwater and soak. Apple cider vinegar acts in much the same way as black tea, restoring the natural acid balance to the skin.
As sunburn begins to heal, it can often leave behind dry, flaking, and itchy skin. The emollient and soothing properties of oats come to the rescue here. Try an oatmeal colloidal bath such as Aveeno to help soothe and stop the itching. Oats have a gentle nervine action and will calm the whole person, inside and out.
CONGESTION
People get congested for all sorts of reasons, most commonly due to colds and flu or allergic reactions. While the treatment for congestion is largely the same regardless of the cause, it’s important to know the reason so that treatment can be extended appropriately. One major difference between herbal medicine and standard, allopathic medicine is what gets treated. Most of us have been raised in a medical system that goes directly for relieving the symptom, leaving the source untreated. This can create a vicious cycle wherein the root cause is driven deeper into the body, producing recurrent bouts of symptoms and weakening the overall system.
One of the reasons the body produces excess mucus is to help rid itself of whatever is causing the problem. Most herbalists and holistic practitioners assert that drying up mucus interferes with the body’s natural healing response. I agree with this, but I also feel that there are occasions when too much congestion and mucus serves only to further weaken the body. In these cases—pneumonia is an extreme example, as is traveling by air, when you must withstand extreme changes in air pressure—it may be appropriate to use pharmaceutical decongestants.
Steam Inhalations
Steam inhalations are one of the most effective natural ways to relieve respiratory congestion. The warm steam helps ease difficult breathing, while volatile oils from herbs and essential oils have both decongestant and antibacterial actions. Inhalations act in accordance with the concept of supporting the body’s healing powers by helping clear mucus rather than dry it up.
To make an herbal steam inhalation, fill a 2-quart saucepan half full of water. Add ½ to 1 cup of your chosen herbs, cover, bring to a boil, turn off the heat, and let sit for 10 to15 minutes. After the herbs have steeped, the steam inhalation is ready. You may also add up to 6 drops of essential oils at this time, if desired; if you don’t have any dried herbs, you can use the essential oils only. They are equally effective. Place the pan on a towel or place mat on a table. Sit with your head over the pan, then cover your head and the pan with a towel to create a tent. It’s best to keep your eyes closed so they don’t burn. Breathe the herbal steam slowly, taking care not to get too close to the hot water. You can regulate the amount of steam and temperature by opening and closing the towel. Steam for 5 to 10 minutes.
It’s recommended that steam inhalations be repeated three to four times a day when you’re congested. One note of caution: Don’t use steam inhalations when you’re suffering from an asthma attack, or if you have rosacea, broken facial capillaries, or sunburn. Also, steam inhalations will cause the mucous membranes to be sensitive for a period of time, so it’s best to not go out right away.
Good herbs to use are eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus), peppermint (Mentha x piperita), thyme (Thymus vulgaris), pine needles, rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis), and chamomile (Matricaria recutita). You can use these in any combination. The essential oils of any of the aforementioned herbs would be helpful, as well as tea tree, hyssop, and lavender.
Portable Inhalations
Since it may be difficult to muster up a steam inhalation in remote areas or when you’re staying in a hotel, a portable inhalation can be used instead. You can buy these at your health food store. Olbas makes a great one that’s light and takes up little room. Or you can make your own quite easily from a small jar with a tight-fitting lid, some rock salt, and essential oils. Simply fill the jar with rock salt and add enough essential oil(s)—30 to 40 drops—to get a good whiff of the scent when you hold the open jar to your nose. Keep the jar tightly capped when not in use to prevent evaporation of the essential oils. Use the same essential oils recommended in the section on steam inhalation, above. You might also add some dried rosemary (Rosemarinus officinalis) to the rock salt mixture before putting it in the jar.
A good herbal vapor salve rubbed into the chest before sleeping can also help. You can buy such salves or make your own. If you do make your own, you’ll find that it’s important to use more essential oil than you normally would when scenting herbal salves, in part because the essential oils evaporate as they’re added to the warm oil mixture. A guideline is 2 tablespoons of essential oils to 1 cup of olive oil. For the essential oil blend, try 2 teaspoons of peppermint essential oil, 1 teaspoon of rosemary, 2 teaspoons of eucalyptus, and 1 teaspoon of thyme (chemotype linalol). To make, heat the olive oil and add ¾ ounce of beeswax. When the beeswax has melted, stir in the oils and pour the salve into small jars to harden. Cap immediately to prevent further evaporation of the essential oils. You can also use 1 cup of herb-infused olive oil in place of the plain olive oil; see the section on oils and salves for directions. Rosemary and thyme are good herbs to use in the infusion: Both are high in beneficial volatile oils and have antibacterial properties.
COLDS AND FLU
Everyone has their own favorite cold remedy. Mine is my husband’s chicken soup. The good news is that most countries have their own version of chicken soup—all you have to do is inquire. Better yet, if you feel well enough to dine out, ask what the host recommends. You might come back with a new remedy!
The truth is that cold and influenza viruses are constantly present around us. We’re exposed to them daily and remain healthy because our immune systems are working as they should. There are times, however, when our systems don’t respond effectively due to stress, not getting enough sleep, lack of exercise, poor eating habits—all hallmarks of travel. Sometimes a cold is nature’s call to slow down and take care of yourself. Whatever you can do to nurture yourself or your family will help when someone has a cold.
Start by boosting your immune system. Echinacea became the panacea of the 1990s, and for good reason. It stimulates the immune system and helps the body rid itself of microbial infection. It’s worth remembering that because of echinacea’s popularity, the plant has been overharvested to the point of endangerment. On the positive side, echinacea is easy to cultivate, and it’s now possible to buy organically cultivated echinacea. Echinacea angustifolia and E. purpurea are equally effective, and many products contain E. pallida as well. Start taking echinacea tincture—30 to 45 drops three times a day—a week before traveling to obtain its immune-enhancing effects. While all treatments work differently, depending on the individual, experience shows that echinacea can knock out a cold if taken at the onset of symptoms. To do so, I prefer frequent doses of echinacea tincture throughout the day—generally 30 to 45 drops every hour. If the cold symptoms don’t abate within two days, you can assume that the cold is here to stay for its duration. But don’t stop taking the echinacea. At this point, you can reduce the dose to 30 to 45 drops three times a day; there’s a good chance that your cold will be gone more quickly than if you had given up on treatment.
Another effective immune-enhancing formula is a combination of astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus) and Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus) taken as a tincture twice a day, 20 to 30 drops per dose. This formula is appropriate to take daily throughout the cold and flu season. Begin a month prior to travel.
An herbal remedy that I’ve recently become quite fond of for both colds and flu—because it works really well for both my family and me—is a tincture of equal parts boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum), redroot (Ceanothus spp.), and echinacea. Boneset, like echinacea, is an immune stimulant. Stephen Harrod Buhner explains in his informative book Herbal Antibiotics that boneset “increases phagocytosis to four times that of echinacea.” Phagocytosis is the process by which a certain form of phagocyte—macrophages, to be exact—go about the body devouring assaulting bacteria. After an infection, the macrophages perform internal housekeeping by cleaning up white blood cell remains as well as leftover bits of bacteria. I’ve seen them likened to Pac Man. You may not have heard much about boneset because it hasn’t become trendy . . . yet. But in the 1700s and 1800s most U.S. homes in the Northeast had boneset drying from the rafters. It was used effectively to treat a flu epidemic in Pennsylvania in 1800. Matthew Wood hypothesizes that the name boneset referred to the pain that “set” in the bones when a person had the flu.
Redroot is an equally effective botanical, especially for stimulating and cleansing the lymph system. The lymph system is responsible for processing and cleansing the body of the by-products of fighting infection. That’s why health care practitioners always check the lymph glands in your neck when you’re ill: Swollen lymph glands are a sign that your body is working to rid itself of infection. The faster the lymph can rid itself of cellular debris, the faster you’ll recover from a cold or flu.
While I don’t believe that this boneset-redroot-echinacea formula is available for purchase yet, you can easily make it yourself. Buy single-herb tinctures of each of the three herbs and combine them in a larger jar. Fill a 2-ounce tincture bottle with some of the resulting formula and you’re all set. Be sure to label both jar and bottle. As with echinacea, I like taking this remedy fairly frequently—generally 20 to 30 drops every hour—at the onset of a cold or flu. Once symptoms begin to subside, reduce the dose to 30 to 45 drops, three times a day until you’re well.
A standard remedy for flu is the homeopathic formula Oscillococcinum. Manufactured by Boiron, Oscillo (as it’s often called) is available even in the more progressive grocery stores these days. It’s taken like any other homeopathic remedy—sublingually (allowed to dissolve under the tongue) 30 minutes before or after eating or drinking anything except water. The standard dosage is three vials; each vial contains hundreds of minute pellets. As soon as you feel flu symptoms, take a vial of Oscillo. Repeat with the second vial six hours later, and with the third six hours after the second. Oscillo is a great remedy for travel because of its tiny size. The vials will easily fit in a purse, pocket, or first-aid kit.
I can’t help but mention what has become the “old standby”—vitamin C. Though still controversial, studies and experience show that large doses of vitamin C begun as soon as you feel a cold coming on will reduce the severity and length of related symptoms. The recommended dose is 1,000 milligrams every two hours for the first several days. Some people tolerate vitamin C less well than others; for them, such a high dose may cause diarrhea. If this occurs, reduce the dosage until the diarrhea has subsided. Alternative remedies for other cold- and flu-related symptoms such as coughs, sore throat, and fever are discussed in their own sections.
CONSTIPATION
For me, constipation is the expected result of any travel. Often the result of not drinking enough fluid and not getting enough exercise—that sounds pretty much like air travel to me—constipation can all but ruin a trip. You can help prevent it by drinking a lot of water (make sure it’s either bottled or safe) and walking daily. Even then, the bowels have a tendency to slow down, especially if you’re camping out and sleeping on the cold, hard ground. They don’t like that combination one bit!
To get things moving again, try cayenne (Capsicum spp.). It’s gentle and works effectively. Stir ½ teaspoon of powdered cayenne into half a glass of water and drink the whole thing before bedtime. If things don’t pass in the morning, take another dose. Cayenne is one of those items that does double duty (see the section on bleeding) and it takes up little room, so it’s a natural for your first-aid kit. Similarly, eating a few local hot peppers will also work.
Cascara sagrada (Rhamnus purshiana) is another botanical laxative that many find effective. Its most easily taken as a capsule; follow the dosage instructions on the bottle. I find that cayenne works more consistently for me, but we each have different constitutions, so use what works. I advise starting with the lowest recommended dose of cascara and working upward until you obtain results. Also, find ways to include more fiber in your diet. It sounds obvious, but it may be harder to do if you are on a tour with set meals. If you trust the source, fruit will help. If not, take psyllium, a natural bulk laxative. There are a number of psyllium products available at either your drug or health food store.
A delightful remedy for constipation is a tummy massage. It feels nicer if you can get someone to do it for you, but it’s just as effective if you perform it yourself. Massaging with a few drops of chamomile essential oil diluted in vegetable oil further enhances the effect. The idea is to rub gently in circular, clockwise motions around the navel and outward, following the natural movement of debris in the large intestine. Try this for five minutes before going to bed. This also is very relieving for bouts of gas.
COUGHS
What I find most distasteful about getting sick is coughing. Annoying and debilitating, it is one of the ways our body rids itself of infection. Unfortunately, there really doesn’t seem to be anything out there that will stop a cough dead in its tracks, even of the pharmaceutical variety. Well, codeine works pretty well to stop spasms, but that’s about it.
An herbal cough syrup is your best bet. There are a number of them on the market; one flavored with elderberry (Sambucus nigra) can be helpful for its stimulating effect on the immune system. Otherwise your choice depends on the kind of cough you are treating—dry and hacking or wet and rattling. Many times you’ll experience both during a bout with a cold, so it’s good to either have two different kinds of cough syrup—one for each type of cough—or a syrup whose herbs work on both.
For a dry and hacking cough, often the more debilitating, demulcent and antitussive herbs are needed. Examples of herbs with demulcent (soothing) properties are marsh mallow root (Althaea officinalis), licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra), and mullein (Verbascum thapsus). The extraordinary-looking mullein plant is a specific for all lung complaints and can be used quite safely. Licorice is one of my favorite herbs for its many differing actions and uses for a number of complaints, but it’s contraindicated for those suffering from edema or high blood pressure. Botanicals that reduce coughing (antitussive) include lobelia (Lobelia inflata) and wild cherry (Prunus serotina) bark. Valerian (Valeriana officinalis), while not specific for coughing, has antispasmodic and sedative properties; it takes the place of codeine (without the side effects and risk) in a natural cough remedy. If you’re making your own cough syrup and decide to include lobelia, be judicious with the amount you use. Lobelia is a “power” herb and can cause vomiting, even in small amounts. Additionally, the plant is on the United Plant Savers At-Risk List and is becoming increasingly difficult to find in the wild.
When your cough becomes “productive”—wet and rattling—expectorant herbs may be used to clear the mucus. Elecampane (Inula helenium) is a favorite of mine, not only because it works so well but also because of its statuesque beauty. Mullein is useful here, as are hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis) and eucalyptus (Eucalyptus globulus).
Herbal steams made with either plant material or essential oils will deliver the helpful plant constituents directly to the lungs. See the section on congestion for more information on how to prepare an herbal steam and on contraindications. I find steams especially useful when my cough is wet and productive. Herbal steams should be used with caution if you suffer from asthma. Many essential oils are irritating in such cases.
I find herbal cough drops or lozenges to be helpful when trying to suppress a cough; these can be purchased all over the world. The sucking and delivery of herbal saliva down the back of the throat can be very soothing.
Nothing is worse than a charley horse (intense muscle cramp) in your leg when you’re sitting in a restrictive seat on the plane. The pain is sudden and intense and usually happens without warning. Possible causes include mineral or hormonal imbalances, sore muscles, or too much blood getting into the muscle. Relief can be had by vigorously massaging the muscle along its length and with the fibers. Massage the area for several minutes, until the blood is moving well and the cramping has ceased.
Stretching also works well. I often feel a cramp coming on in my feet when I’m sitting in certain yoga positions. The only cure is to unfold and stretch my toes in the opposite direction from what they were in. Heat, in the form of a hot-water bottle or heating pad, is not recommended; it serves only to bring more blood to the area. Try elevating the limb instead.
Certain supplements can be helpful, depending on the reason for the cramping. I find that if I’m in a hot climate and perspiring a lot, muscle cramping becomes a common occurrence. Eating salty foods helps. Don’t increase your salt intake, however, if you have high blood pressure or edema, don’t tolerate it well, or have been told by your health care practitioner to avoid sodium. Recently, certain football teams have begun drinking pickle juice—high in salt content—as a preventive measure for cramps.
Vitamin E is sometimes suggested for charley horses that occur at night due to circulatory problems. The recommended dosage is 600 International Units (IUs) of vitamin E daily for two weeks; then reduce this to 400 IUs daily. Menopausal women with frequent nocturnal cramping should start their daily vitamin E dosage at 1,200 IUs. After two weeks, the dosage should be reduced to 400 IUs. Magnesium and calcium deficiencies may also contribute to cramping. Try eating more of the foods rich in these minerals, including cold-water fish (halibut, mackerel), spinach, kale, pumpkin seeds, and tofu.
CRANKINESS
When I get cranky, my husband says that he needs to either “water” me or “air” me out. Kind of like being a mattress! But he’s really referring to the benefits of hydrotherapy and fresh air. And as much as I don’t want to admit it, he’s right—it always works!
So if crankiness is a problem, especially in little ones, the first thing to do is let them take a nice warm bath with a few drops of lavender or chamomile essential oil thrown in. Adults can do the same or take a shower, if one is available. If you’re showering, place a few drops of one of the essential oils mentioned above on a hot terry washcloth and hold it near your face (eyes closed) as the steamy water drums against your skin. Upon exiting the tub or shower, briskly dry off with a fluffy towel—it’s a new day.
If a bath or shower is not available and you have the time, go for a quick, brisk walk. Deep breathing helps clear out stuck chi (life force) and a bit of exercise will get your blood pumping, both excellent for dispelling “bad attitudes.” It will also give you a taste of the local flavor, which can give you a new sense of life.
Another favorite remedy of mine—which I don’t indulge in too often because of its expense—is rose essential oil. Refer to chapter 2, Aromatherapy, and you’ll understand why. The number of rose petals needed to produce just an ounce of the essential oil is huge. Still, rose essential oil not only smells heavenly but also has the ability to restore calm and peace. And a little does go a long way. Try putting just 1 drop on a cotton hankie and breathing deeply of the scented material. You’ll soon find your sense of joy returning. Rose essential oil is safe for children as well.
One last remedy, and perhaps the most effective, is Dr. Bach’s Rescue Remedy. Discussed in chapter 4, Flower Essences, Rescue Remedy works to dispel crankiness as well as trauma. Try 4 drops under the tongue several times a day. If your infant is the cranky one and you’ve taken steps to understand the cause and have addressed it, it also helps to place a few drops of the essence on your hands and rub them gently over your baby’s scalp and temples. Babies often respond remarkably quickly.
CUTS, SCRAPES, AND ABRASIONS
Unfortunately, traveling and being away from home doesn’t mean you might not take a tumble and get a scraped knee, or worse. However you come by an injury of this sort, it’s especially important to cleanse the wound well when you’re in a different environment than you’re accustomed to. Different locations mean different bacteria and a need to be extra vigilant. It’s good to know that in people with normal clotting abilities, some bleeding is beneficial: It’s the body’s way of ridding itself of harmful foreign matter. If you’ve got a superficial cut on your finger, for instance, you might want to squeeze out a bit of blood under the water faucet to help your body cleanse itself. The main point is to wash the wound completely. Soap and warm water work very well. If you have no access to water, slowly pouring a little hydrogen peroxide on the cut or abrasion also helps cleanse the area. Follow up with a good herbal antibacterial liniment. I like Dr. Kloss’s Liniment, which can be easily made at home. The recipe can be found in Dr. Kloss’s classic Back to Eden. It contains goldenseal, cayenne, and myrrh, and employs old-fashioned rubbing alcohol as the menstruum. On an open wound this solution burns and stings and is not for the faint of heart. I definitely recommend diluting it with some sterile water before using it on children or animals. Be careful not to get any of the liniment on your clothing—the goldenseal imparts a yellow-gold color to the solution, and it will stain. If you prefer not to make your own Kloss’s Liniment, most health food stores carry some type of herbal liniment for cuts and scrapes.
Once the wound has been washed and disinfected, apply a salve that contains both soothing and antibacterial herbs. Particular herbs to look for are chickweed (Stellaria media), plantain (Plantago spp.), goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis), St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum), lavender (Lavandula angustifolia), thyme (Thymus vulgaris), osha (Ligusticum canbyi), usnea (Usnea spp.), and calendula (Calendula officinalis). Remember not to use arnica (Arnica montana) on broken skin, and stay away from external remedies containing comfrey (Symphytum officinale) until the wound has developed a good scab and shows no signs of infection. While comfrey is an excellent demulcent and especially healing to the skin, its ability to help the skin repair itself quickly can seal infection-causing pathogens deep in the wound. A good commercial salve for traveling is the Golden Salve, made by Paul Strauss, herbalist, caretaker of Earth, and owner of Equinox Botanicals in Rutland, Ohio. After applying the salve, bandage the wound as appropriate.
One last remedy to consider is Herb Pharm’s Propolis/ Echinacea Spray. It can be used for numerous complaints, which earns it a spot in my first-aid kit. As the product name suggests, one of its ingredients is propolis, a by-product of the honey industry. A resinous material that bees produce to help seal off their hives from bacteria and other infection-causing material, propolis is a truly natural antibiotic. Spraying it on a scrape or abrasion creates a protective covering, just like the bees get for their hives. The other ingredients in the spray are antibacterial and immune enhancing and will further help the wound heal.
CYSTITIS OR URINARY TRACT INFECTION
A urinary tract infection, often abbreviated as UTI and sometimes referred to as cystitis, is an inflammation of the urinary tract caused by an overgrowth of bacteria and resulting in infection. Sometimes referred to as “honeymoon disease,” it’s more common in women than in men. This is due to anatomy—a man’s urethra is approximately 8 inches in length, while most women have a urethra measuring 1½ inches. This means that bacteria have less distance to travel to reach the bladder. Symptoms of a UTI are frequent urination, pain, spasming and burning while urinating, and sometimes fever and nausea if the infection is severe enough. It can be treated successfully with alternative methods, but if you don’t get definite results within twenty-four to forty-eight hours, it’s important to see a medical practitioner as quickly as possible. Left untreated, a UTI can lead to kidney infection. This is a serious condition indeed, and not to be taken lightly. Having said that, let me describe some of the alternative remedies you can try.
The first is prevention. UTIs are often the result of unsanitary conditions; of use of spermicides, diaphragms, feminine hygiene products, or antibiotics; and of stress. All serve to upset the internal balance. In women, it helps to wipe from front to back after moving the bowels, so as not to distribute bacteria from the rectum to the vaginal area, where the urethra is siutated. Another trick is to urinate prior to engaging in intercourse and especially afterward. The stream of urine passing through the urethra will remove much of any bacteria pushed up the urethra during intercourse. I’ve known women who all but eliminated recurrent UTIs by instituting both practices.
If you find yourself experiencing cystitislike symptoms while away from home, start drinking as much water as possible. Use bottled water if you are at all unsure of your water source. Drinking a lot of water will provide a steady flow of urine, which will allow more bacteria to pass from the system. Unsweetened cranberry juice is a time-honored treatment. Research shows that a constituent found in cranberries makes it difficult for bacteria to stick to the lining of the urethra and bladder. If the taste is too tart for you, dilute it with water. Drink at least three or four 8-ounce glasses a day. If you’re prone to cystitis, you might want to take along cranberry capsules. These may be purchased at your health food store. The suggested dosage is 3 capsules containing 400 milligrams of cranberry extract every day until the infection is gone.
Herb Pharm produces a tincture called Goldenrod Horsetail Compound that I’ve found quite effective for UTIs. As the name suggests, it contains goldenrod (Solidago canadensis), corn silk (Zea mays), horsetail (Equisetum arvense), pipsissewa (Chimaphila umbellata), and juniper berry (Juniperus communis). All of those herbs are specific to the health of the urinary tract. Some are more soothing and tonic in nature, such as corn silk, while others—juniper, for instance—have antimicrobial properties. The suggested dosage for an acute infection is 30 to 40 drops in water three to five times a day.
On a personal note, I once found myself displaying early UTI symptoms. Beer was readily available and as I knew I needed to drink a lot of fluids, I decided that the beer would have to do. I only drank two bottles, and the amazing thing was that my cystitis symptoms completely cleared themselves. I am not necessarily recommending beer as a natural treatment for cystitis—my guess is that the increased urination produced by drinking beer probably eliminated any offending bacteria—but if no other remedies were easily had, I might try it again.
DEHYDRATION
Dehydration is a condition in which the water level in the body falls below normal and the balance of electrolytes (sugars and salts) is upset. Causes include diarrhea, heat, air travel, exercise, and any situation where water isn’t replaced in the body. Under normal circumstances, you’re made aware of impending dehydration by a strong urge to drink fluids. But some people, especially many adults over the age of sixty, have a diminished awareness of dehydration due to age and certain medications (diuretics taken for heart disease and high blood pressure). These people need to manage their fluid intake by drinking at least six to eight glasses of water a day, depending on the environmental conditions.
Initial symptoms of dehydration include dry mouth, dizziness, loss of appetite, fatigue and weakness, and headache. These symptoms can occur even before thirst becomes a factor, so it’s especially important to watch for them in children and the elderly when traveling in hot climates. Advanced symptoms include rapid pulse, vision and hearing problems, difficulty walking, and shortness of breath. Extreme dehydration is a serious condition and can result in death, so it’s important to react quickly when you notice the signs.
As with many conditions, prevention is your best medicine. While plain drinking water is best for resolving dehydration, most other fluids will do as well, including juice, milk, herbal teas, and soft drinks. Six to eight 8-ounce glasses of water or a substitute are required each day—more if you’re in a very hot area. Soft drinks are high in sodium, which will help retain water in the body, but they don’t really quench your thirst. Stay away from them if they contain caffeine, which often acts as a diuretic. If you’re in an area where the drinking water is suspect, bottled water, caffeine-free sodas, and canned or bottled juices may be your only recourse. Drinks with diuretic properties such as alcohol, coffee, and black tea are not appropriate in this situation, because they will further exacerbate the condition. Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables will also help; most contain at least 75 percent water.
Stay cool if possible. It’s also important that when you’re indoors there’s plenty of air circulation. A hot, stuffy room is disaster for someone already suffering from dehydration. If air-conditioning is not available, numerous cool showers will help. If you’re backpacking or camping, cool, rushing streams are an ideal place to soak your feet—or whole body, if you can manage it.
The main point is to try to replace the water in your body throughout the day. Drink frequently—at least every other hour, and more often if you’re on an airplane. If you or someone in your party does become dehydrated, get out of the heat and drink fluids immediately.
DIARRHEA AND VOMITING
While it’s not always the case, diarrhea and vomiting often go hand in hand, particularly when you’re traveling. Intestinal disorders are all too common in unfamiliar areas, depending on what your body is used to and what it finds “foreign.”
For most of us, used to years of effective sewage treatment in the United States, travel abroad poses some problems, especially if we drink the local water or eat unpeeled fruit or uncooked vegetables. And it can be difficult to eat without doing at least one of the three. To prepare yourself, Lois Johnson, M.D., suggests strengthening your digestive system by taking acidophilus and bifidus for several weeks ahead of time and while you travel. Often referred to as probiotics, acidophilus capsules (often with bifidus) can be purchased at your health food store. Take them in the morning, half an hour before eating. There are two types—one that must be refrigerated, one that needn’t be. Either type works, and while I find the first more effective, you’ll want the nonrefrigerated type for travel.
Dr. Johnson also suggests Para-Gard as a preventive measure. Para-Gard contains berberine sulfate, Citricidal extract, gentian root, goldenseal, Sweet Annie, quassia, black walnut hull, and garlic. It’s considered a broad-spectrum herbal antimicrobial and is made by Tyler. Take 1 to 3 capsules three times a day between meals. Contact your health care practitioner for more information.
The Chinese patent remedy Curing Pill, discussed in the section on indigestion, is helpful for diarrhea and vomiting. If you suspect food poisoning, activated charcoal tablets would also be appropriate—see the section on food poisoning.
One of the most important concerns with diarrhea or vomiting is the possibility of dehydration. Try to replace the fluids that are lost by drinking small amounts of bottled water. This may be more easily said than done. If you’re vomiting, sip small amounts of flat Coca-Cola or 7-Up. Sucking on ice chips, if they can be found, seems to work as well. Once you feel well enough, you might want to try some instant miso soup to help replace the electrolytes lost when ill. Be sure to see a professional health care practitioner if you have any of the following: severe dehydration, bloody diarrhea, or a fever higher that 100 degrees F.
EARACHES
Earaches are often a sign of ear infection, which can be a serious condition. Left untreated, it can result in perforation to the eardrum and hearing loss. At best, earaches and infections are incredibly painful.
Ear infections can be the result of blockage to the eustachian tube, which normally allows fluid from the middle ear to drain into the recesses of the throat. Blocked, this fluid becomes a breeding ground for bacteria and turns into pus and an infection. If it’s preceded by a cold, an ear infection is referred to as a secondary infection. Causes of eustachian tube blockages are swollen glands or swollen tissue due to a cold, irregularities in the eustachian tubes (children born with cleft palates often have crooked eustachian tubes as a result), and allowing babies to drink from a bottle while reclining (bottle propping).
Holistic prevention includes eliminating dairy products, which lead to greater amounts of mucus in the body. It’s also important to treat congestion—from colds or allergies—either with herbal steams or by taking a decongestant. I’m a fan of taking Sudafed before flights if I’m experiencing congestion. Flying increases pressure in the ear, and if you’re already congested, it seems to drive the fluids deeper. I’ve ended up with an ear infection on more than one occasion from flying while sick. Chewing on gum or sucking on hard candy or a throat lozenge will also help relieve the pressure by opening up the eustachian tubes.
Dr. Kathi J. Kemper, in her book The Holistic Pediatrician, indicates that in most cases it’s all right to treat an ear infection with alternative methods for up to twenty-four hours before contacting a health care professional. However, if the child is less than a year old, has a temperature of 103 degrees F or greater, is in severe pain, or seems to be sicker than would be normal, consultation with a health care professional is required as soon as possible. I would do the same for an individual of any age.
I have to admit that I have yet to find any of the typically suggested alternative treatments to be effective for earaches. Some people swear by garlic–mullein flower oil, although the one time I used it I ended up with a double ear infection that was incredibly painful. If this is something you’d like to use, treat both ears, even if only one seems to be problematic. To use the oil, warm it gently in a bowl of hot water, then put 2 drops into each ear. Be sure to keep the dropper itself from touching any area of the ear. Place a bit of cotton in each ear to keep the oil in place. Gaia Herbs offers this oil in a 2-ounce bottle that would pack well.
Two other alternative treatments for an earache that results from swimming or an infection in the ear canal (outer ear) are isopropyl alcohol and eardrops made from glycerin, grapefruit extract, and tea tree oil. Such drops can be purchased at a health food store. A company called NutriBiotic manufactures the ones I carry. Be sure to follow the directions on the bottle. Isopropyl alcohol works by drying up fluid stuck in the outer ear canal, which may be causing pain by putting pressure on the eardrum. To use, just place a few drops of alcohol in the ear canal, then put a cotton ball gently in the ear.
EYE PROBLEMS
This section focuses on dry eyes, puffy eyes, and conjunctivitis, commonly called pinkeye. Watering, itchy eyes due to allergies or hay fever are discussed in more detail in that section.
Dry eyes are often the result of irritants in the air, such as cigarette smoke, or a dry environment such as the desert or an airplane. Rehydrating your eyes will help. First, remember to drink lots of water, especially in an airplane: High altitudes will suck the water right out of your body. Cool compresses placed over both eyes will soothe and give them a rest. Don’t use essential oils in the compresses—just soak clean gauze pads in ice water. Gently squeeze the water out and place the pads on your eyes. Leave them in place for 10 to 15 minutes. Natural eyedrops may be purchased at the health food store. These are often just saline solutions, but you might find some that also contain eyebright (Euphrasia officinalis)—an herb specific to eye complaints in general. Eyedrops are appropriate for traveling and symptomatic relief, but if you find that dry eyes are a common occurrence for you, consult your health care practitioner to determine if there isn’t something else going on.
Puffy eyes can be a result of allergies, crying (maybe someone is a bit homesick), or too much partying. Relief is only as far away as your tea bag. When you’re done drinking your tea, give your puffy eyes a break and place the tea bags directly over your closed eyes as a makeshift compress. Black tea contains tannins, which have an astringent quality, and will gently tighten the skin around your eyes by drawing out excess fluids. Another kitchen remedy—cold, sliced cucumbers placed over your eyes—works similarly. In addition, cucumber has emollient properties and will soften and soothe the delicate tissues around the eyes.
Conjunctivitis, or pinkeye, is an infection of the eye, such as a cold, which causes the cornea to become bloodshot. There may be irritation and a weepy discharge. The infection is often caused by a virus, but it can also be brought on by pollution or allergies. Despite its rather alarming appearance, if left untreated pinkeye usually resolves on its own. Still, there are some things you can do to relieve the discomfort and keep from passing on the virus:
FATIGUE
Broadly speaking, fatigue is inevitable at some point in your travels. To begin with, you’re spending long hours sitting in a cramped car, train, or airplane to arrive at your destination. Once you’re there, the whirlwind begins, especially if you’ve opted for a guided tour. Then you sleep in an unfamiliar bed or, more difficult, on the ground. Even (or especially) if you’re having a wonderful time and seeing exciting, exotic locales, travel leads to fatigue that, left unchecked, can easily become full-blown exhaustion.
Lois Johnson, M.D., once noted that if you wake up tired, you need to sleep more. It’s just common sense: If you’re beginning to feel fatigued, take a break. This can be especially difficult if you’re traveling on business and other people’s expectations of you are high. Think “balance,” even if the word is unheard of in today’s fast-paced business culture. It is possible to say no politely, and if you’re feeling tired, do so. You’ll have a more productive trip because of it.
Fatigue is often a result of not being able to relax. Insomnia and jet lag don’t help either (see those sections for specific information). Exercise is a great way to reduce stress and relax. Many hotels all over the world have exercise rooms and pools, either right in the facility or through an affiliation with a local club that guests can use. It pays to make use of these if you need to de-stress. One of my coworkers is a veteran traveler and always goes for a jog when he arrives at his destination—even after thirteen hours in an airplane and two in a train. He claims that it both helps him sleep and allows him to eat whatever he wants! If running isn’t your style, try a brisk walk instead.
On the sybaritic side, don’t forget a warm bath with your favorite essential oils added just before you climb in. Good ones to relieve fatigue are rosemary, peppermint, clary sage, and lavender. Use them singly or in combination, but keep the total amount of essential oils down to 10 drops or fewer per bath. Peppermint essential oil is especially uplifting in the morning. Place a drop or two on a wet washcloth and breathe deeply from it while you shower.
Remember to eat well—whole foods and lots of water. Caffeine and sugar, while stimulating at first, will drop you hard later in the day. They can also mask fatigue by constantly jump-starting your system. Too much alcohol will disrupt your cycle and rob you of sleep (so desperately needed), so try to keep your drinking to a minimum—admittedly hard to do in Napa Valley!
FEVER
Fever, an internal body temperature above 98.6 degrees F, is a sign that the body is fighting off an infection. In fact, many health care practitioners don’t consider a raised temperature a “fever” until it rises above 99.5. If it’s not too high, a fever can be a good thing, because it’s the body’s way of destroying infectious pathogens. Many health care practitioners specifically advise against lowering a raised temperature, preferring to let it to run its course and do its job, unless it’s prolonged or rises beyond 101. In these cases a fever can be debilitating. If it reaches 102.6 degrees or more, a fever can be quite serious indeed; if it’s very high or doesn’t go down within twelve hours, seek medical attention. Also consider the age of the individual—a temperature of 103 is not uncommon in young children but would be very difficult for an elderly person to tolerate.
Catnip (Nepeta cataria)—yes, the same plant that cats go bonkers over (it’s a stimulant for them)—works well to alleviate fever. It’s especially effective for children and can be used quite safely. Many holistic practitioners recommend a catnip enema for young children with fever (a room-temperature catnip infusion is used in the enema), but this may not be practical when you’re traveling. Drinking the tea will have a similar effect; it can be made more palatable by adding peppermint (Mentha x piperita) leaf. The tea is equally useful for adults as well. To make the tea, infuse 1 to 2 teaspoons of catnip or catnip-peppermint herb in 1 cup of hot water. Let it steep for 15 minutes before drinking.
You may also want to make or buy a tincture containing herbs that act as a febrifuge (able to reduce a fever) to carry in your kit. I make one containing 2 parts catnip, 1 part elder flowers (Sambucus nigra), and 1 part peppermint. This particular tincture is especially useful if the fever is due to cold or flu.
Peppermint and lavender essential oils are very soothing in a cold compress. Add 2 to 4 drops of essential oil to a basin of cold water. Soak a washcloth in the water and wring it out. This can be placed either on the forehead or at the nape of the neck (I like to rotate between both areas); it’s quite relieving. Change the compress every 10 minutes or as often as needed.
Cool baths may be required if someone’s temperature is quite high and you’re unable to get to a health care practitioner right away. Adding 5 to 7 drops of lavender essential oil to the bath will help calm the patient. And stay close—it’s entirely possible that he or she will require assistance out of the bath. Also, be on the lookout for chills and make sure to dry the person well once out of the tub. I also recommend a dose (4 drops under the tongue) of Dr. Bach’s Rescue Remedy every hour or two—more often for someone who’s quite uncomfortable.
If the fever is severe or prolonged, dehydration can become a factor. While people generally don’t feel like drinking while feverish, insist that little sips be taken often. Ice chips are also a pleasant way to get fluids into the body under such conditions. If your attempts at reducing a fever—with either these methods or over-the-counter analgesics such as Tylenol or aspirin—are not successful, or if it’s quite high given the guidelines noted earlier, seek professional care immediately.
FOOD POISONING
Food poisoning can occur anywhere, but it does seem that your chances of it increase in more remote locales. Symptoms include dizziness, vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, intestinal cramping, sweating, and possibly a low fever. You know when you have it, and if you’ve had it before you also know that it needs to run its course. There are, however, a few things you can do to help relieve the symptoms.
One of the easiest is to eat bread, if you can get past putting solid food in your stomach. The bread will help soak up the toxins and allow you to pass more of them faster. Don’t use spreads on the bread, however. They’ll just make you feel more ill.
Activated charcoal, which can be purchased in tablet or capsule form, has been found to be very effective in cases of food poisoning. The charcoal is extremely absorbent, not only of toxic particles in the digestive tract but also of gases. As the charcoal passes through the digestive system, it picks up offending toxins and other wastes and is excreted along with the “poison.” Activated charcoal is sold most often in doses ranging from 250 to 350 milligrams and can be purchased at your health food store. Read the label for proper dosage.
There are also a few homeopathic remedies that you can try. Since they’re relatively inexpensive, you might want to buy both and have them on hand, just in case. If you’re experiencing nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, chills, and restlessness, try Arsenicum album in either 6C or 12C potency. Take a dose every two to three hours until the symptoms subside. Veratrum album, 6C or 12C, may be used if the symptoms are similar but accompanied by a craving for ice-cold drinks and cold sweats. Again, doses may be taken every two or three hours.
Food poisoning can be quite severe and may require medical attention. If the patient is a very young child or elderly, seek help immediately upon the onset of symptoms. This also holds true for those suffering from a chronic disease such as AIDS. If symptoms include a temperature over 100 degrees F; bloody diarrhea; an inability to keep down any fluids; dehydration; difficulty in breathing, speaking, or swallowing; paralysis; or change in vision—or if symptoms are more minor but last longer than twenty-four to forty-eight hours—seek medical attention immediately.
HEADACHE
A headache can ruin even the most delightful occasion, or at the least put a damper on it. Interestingly, in the alternative world (as compared with the over-the-counter world) treatments often depend on why the headache has occurred. And while you’ll find a number of holistic remedies for headaches that are general in nature, it’s important to note and assess what was going on prior to the onset of the headache so that the cause may also be addressed.
For instance, I often get headaches if I’ve become dehydrated. In fact, if I complain of headache, the first thing my husband asks is, “How much water did you drink today?” Simply drinking a glass or two of cool water and finding some mild activity with which to occupy myself usually clears the headache.
For other people, stress may be the cause of a headache or perhaps sinus congestion due to allergies. Both conditions have specific treatments, and using them not only helps relieve the headache but will also keep it from returning. Migraines are a different animal entirely and have specific treatments—feverfew (Chrysanthemum parthenium) appears to be successful for some—but the focus of this section is on your garden-variety headache.
One of the first alternative headache treatments I experienced was at the hands of a young Japanese woman at a New Year’s Eve party. I mentioned that I had a headache—probably from drinking too little water and more than enough alcohol. She took my left hand in hers and began to vigorously massage a point on the web of skin between my thumb and forefinger. Called the he-gu point in acupuncture, stimulating it serves to release congested chi (vital energy—a concept critical in traditional Chinese medicine and other healing modalities) and relieve aheadache. It works, but remember to treat the source as well. In this case I also needed to drink more water. To find the point yourself, hold your hand palm down with your thumb resting against the side of your hand. With a finger from the opposite hand, locate the point where the crease made by the thumb resting against the hand ends. Keep your finger on this point and allow your thumb to move outward. You’ll find that you’ve located a point on the skin between the forefinger and thumb. It’s found on both hands, and both work equally well.
Another excellent remedy is lavender essential oil. Not only does lavender relax, but it also has analgesic properties. You can use it in a spritzer (see chapter 2, Aromatherapy, for instructions on how to make one) or, better yet, place a drop or two on your fingertips and massage them into the base of your skull at the back of your neck. I also like to massage it into my temples if the headache seems to rest there. Keep in mind that just as when you’re using ibuprofen or aspirin, your headache won’t dissipate immediately; with a bit of time, however, it will begin to subside and eventually disappear. If you have access to a tub, take a steamy lavender bath (add 5 to 7 drops to the bathwater), close your eyes, and relax.
HEAT EXHAUSTION AND SUNSTROKE
Heat exhaustion can occur when the body becomes overheated, generally from being out in the direct sun without protection, for a prolonged amount of time. If left untreated, sunstroke may occur, which is much more serious than heat exhaustion and requires immediate medical attention.
Symptoms of heat exhaustion include dizziness, weakness, and clammy skin. Sunstroke, on the other hand, will include a high fever, racing pulse, and no sweating at all. If this occurs, again, immediate medical treatment is required.
To mitigate heat exhaustion, it’s important to rehydrate. Give water in frequent, small amounts. In addition, lost minerals and salts must be replenished. This can be accomplished by drinking fruit juices, sports drinks such as Gatorade that are designed to replace the body’s electrolytes, broths, and miso soup. Kathi Keville notes that she began to keep instant miso soup packets in her first-aid kit after experiencing heat exhaustion herself. This is an excellent idea—and the packets are perfect for backpacking, when weight is an issue.
Cool showers or baths may be taken, if possible. If not, make cold compresses using washcloths dipped in cold water to which you’ve added a few drops of lavender essential oil. These can be placed at the forehead, temples, and other pulse points on the body. Growing up in Libya, I often ran cold water from the school’s bathroom tap over my wrists when I was hot. Somehow I knew it would cool me down.
INDIGESTION
Travel includes all sorts of events that can upset the digestive balance, causing bloating, indigestion, or heartburn. Stress plays a huge part, as do the unusual foods we tend to eat while abroad. Luckily, a number of natural remedies are not only easy to carry but also usually quite effective in relieving and eliminating indigestion.
Bloating, a full, rather uncomfortable feeling in the abdominal area, is often a result of digestive disturbance and stress, which are themselves frequently a result of overeating or eating foods that your body is unused or sensitive to—especially if you’re consuming more sugars and starches than is normal for you.
In many Indian restaurants a small bowl of fennel seeds is placed near the entrance. Those in the know will take a small spoonful of the seeds and eat them as they leave. Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) has carminative properties and works to relieve flatulence as well as stimulating digestion. Carry your own small tin of fennel seeds with you to chew after meals—only a few are needed. They have a delightful taste and will leave your breath smelling fresher as well.
Another suggestion is chamomile (Matricaria recutita) or peppermint (Mentha x piperita) tea. Both herbs relieve gas and indigestion. Peppermint is classified as a stimulating nervine but will soothe the nerves in the digestive tract, which will help eliminate any accompanying cramping. Carry tea bags of both types and use as desired. I like the two plants combined in equal parts as a tea blend—it’s simple and flavorful. Just take some along in a plastic bag with a tea ball, and all you’ll need is hot water. Use 1 to 2 teaspoons per cup, depending on your tastes. Let the tea steep for 5 to 10 minutes before drinking.
Children in particular will respond favorably to a gentle tummy rub with vegetable oil and a few drops of essential oil. You can purchase 1-ounce plastic bottles and make up any number of essential oil blends to take with you. Make sure to label the bottles—most of us can’t trust our noses. Pack each bottle in a plastic bag to avoid leaking oil over the rest of your belongings.
To relieve uncomfortable bloating, gently rub some Tummy Oil on the abdominal area. The essental oils smell good and will help to the whole area.
2 drops lavender essential oil
1 drop sweet fennel essential oil
2 drops German chamomile essential oil
1 ounce sweet almond, apricot kernel, or grapeseed oil (plain vegetable oil also works)
BITTERS BLEND
Bitters, discussed in the section on allergies, are wonderful for relieving heartburn. Used half an hour prior to eating, bitters will prevent indigestion by stimulating the body’s gastric secretions at the appropriate time—just before you load your stomach with food. If you want to make your own bitters tincture, try this recipe. There are also many similar products on the market—just ask the staff at your favorite health food store to help you pick one.
2 parts dandelion root
½ part gentian root
1 part cardamom
1 part fennel
1 part chamomile
1 part gingerroot
½ part turmeric
Grind the herbs and mascerate in 80-proof brandy for two to six weeks. Refer to the section on tinctures for additional information.
Finally, a Chinese patent remedy called Curing Pill is truly excellent for any kind of digestive disturbance, including nausea. My brother-in-law offered it to me once after we had eaten a rich meal and I was feeling badly. Curing Pills come prepackaged in a small plastic vial that contains approximately one hundred tiny reddish brown pills. The idea is to swallow them all down at once with water. I must admit to having been dubious and somewhat reticent to swallow a bunch of pills, no matter how little. But within a half hour, I felt well. Now I always carry several of the little red boxes, each containing one plastic vial or dose, in all my kits. You never know when you’ll need one. You can buy ten individual boxes in one larger box at most health food stores—or try a local acupuncturist (I note that mine says “Culing Pill”—it’s the same thing.)
INSOMNIA
The bane of the long-distance traveler who jumps time zones in a single bound, insomnia also torments many of us on a regular basis. The causes are varied and difficult to pinpoint—in fact, each healing modality sees the causes very differently—but it’s known that stress often plays a part.
And insomnia can indeed be a factor when crossing many time zones. The body’s clock is “set” to a particular time, so when it suddenly finds itself in a totally different time of day, it’s thrown off. Sleep habits are then disturbed, which may cause temporary insomnia. Camping, too, can make it difficult to sleep. I have yet to find a pad that feels as good as my bed; I never sleep well outdoors.
A number of herbs work effectively for treating insomnia. My favorite is valerian (Valeriana officinalis), in spite of its infamous musty—read “smelly socks”—odor. Valerian contains constituents that have sedative and hypnotic properties. The term hypnotic in this case means “something that induces sleep.” It can be taken as a tea: Leave 1 to 2 teaspoons of root per cup of hot water to steep for 15 minutes. Even though it’s the root that gets used, the tea is prepared as an infusion so not to lose the beneficial volatile oils. If you find the peculiar valerian odor offensive, the herb is equally effective taken as a tincture or in capsule form. Lois Johnson, M.D., indicates that valerian may be taken safely even in fairly high doses; she’s taken as much as a tablespoon of the tincture at night when sleep was elusive. I recommend starting off with smaller doses—1 to 2 droppers approximately half an hour before retiring—to see how the herb works for you. You can increase the dosage if need be, although I don’t recommend going beyond a tablespoon of tincture. Valerian will make it easier to get to sleep and won’t cause a “hangover” the next morning, as do some pharmaceutical sleep remedies. One thing to keep in mind is that in 5 to 10 percent of the population, valerian has the opposite effect, acting as a stimulant. There really are no indicators to let you know if you’re a member of that minority; the only way to know is to try it. I’ve been told that if valerian is a stimulant for you, you’ll have no doubt about it.
Although valerian is known as the primary “sleeping” herb, other herbs also have sedating, calming properties, are safe to use, and can be equally effective. Skullcap (Scutellaria laterifolia) is considered a nervine tonic and sedative. It’s especially effective in those suffering from nervous tension. Catnip (Nepeta cataria) and lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) are both gentle, relaxing herbs and are often found in children’s formulas. Passionflower (Passiflora incarnata) is an incredibly beautiful plant with both sedating and hypnotic actions. David Hoffmann recommends it for “intransigent insomnia”—cases of insomnia that are well established. Hops (Humulus lupulus), the same plant used to flavor beer, is also considered a sedative and hypnotic. It has a bitter flavor and is contraindicated in those who are also suffering from depression. Most herbal formulas for insomnia contain some, or perhaps all, of the herbs listed here. In particular skullcap, valerian, and hops combine well. Your best bet is to talk with the folks at your health food store and let them recommend a favorite product—there are plenty available.
Keep in mind the foods you may be eating as well. Beverages or foods containing caffeine will make it more difficult to sleep. That innocuous piece of chocolate left on your pillow as part of many hotels’ turndown ritual contains caffeine. Small as the piece may be, if you’re at all sensitive to caffeine, it will be enough to keep you awake. Many over-the-counter formulations also contain caffeine—certain pain relievers are a good example—so be sure to read the labels.
Ever-useful lavender essential oil also has calming, sedating properties and has been successfully used to aid sleep. I find that just 2 or 3 drops on a tissue placed inside my pillowcase will help bring on a relaxing sleep. Taking a warm bath to which 5 to 7 drops of lavender oil have been added just before you go to bed is also effective. Don’t let the water get too hot or you may find yourself somewhat agitated instead.
Melatonin is a natural hormone that many find useful when dealing with insomnia. The recommended dose for insomnia is 1 to 3 milligrams taken an hour or two before bed. It’s discussed in more detail in the section on jet lag.
A common problem while traveling, itchy skin obviously has a number of sources, but several in particular come up when you’re away from home.
Itchy skin can occur when the outer dermal layers become dry. Every winter I suffer from intermittent itching when my office and home are heated and the air’s moisture content is all but removed. It’s especially bad when I bend my arms or legs—the stretching of dry, taut skin increases the itching. I’ve discovered that in winter I need to moisturize my whole body, not just my face. Airplanes are also particularly drying due to the high altitudes and recycled air. To help keep your skin from drying out, keep your insides moist by drinking lots of liquids, especially water, while flying. If there’s any one thing that can be done to counteract the rigors of flying, whether jet lag or dry skin, it’s to drink enough water. A good rule of thumb is one glass (airplane sized) of water every hour.
Calendula (Calendula officinalis)—sometimes called marigold, although it’s not the same as the garden marigold commonly found at nurseries—has anti-inflammatory properties and is specific to skin care. Products made with calendula are extra soothing on dry, chapped skin; I use oil infused with calendula in most of the soap I make. If you find that your skin is getting dry and itchy, try massaging a lotion or cream made with calendula into your skin. When shopping at the health food store, you might look for a lotion that also contains chickweed (Stellaria media), which has both vulnerary (relieves pain) and emollient properties.
Cool compresses made with a few drops of Roman chamomile, peppermint, lavender, or eucalyptus essential oil added to the water will also help. Just take gauze pads or a washcloth, wring them out in cold water to which 2 or 3 drops of essential oil have been added, and place them over the itching skin. Don’t use hot water: Heat will cause blood to rise to the surface, which will only increase the itching.
Sometimes severe itching is due to stress or inflammation and needs to be calmed internally. If you have valerian (Valeriana officinalis) tincture in your first-aid kit, take 30 to 60 drops in a small glass of warm water. Chamomile (Matricaria recutita) tea is also useful. Besides being very calming, it has a strong anti-inflammatory action. Some children become quite anxious when they’re itchy. Rescue Remedy will effectively calm them down. Let them sip water or chamomile tea to which 4 drops of Rescue Remedy has been added. In fact, you can also buy Rescue Remedy cream. Massage them, or yourself, with this cream for both a moisturizing and a calming effect.
JET LAG
Jet lag is the name given to the collection of physical symptoms that arise when you fly across time zones. Flying west seems to be easier on the body, but whether your flight takes an easterly or westerly direction and depending on the distance flown, jet lag will likely result. While it’s not a particularly serious condition, jet lag does interfere with normal activity. A hallmark symptom is the inability to sleep at night—your body’s time clock as been thrown off, so when it’s 11:00 P.M. in Amsterdam, you may feel like it’s midafternoon, not bedtime. Additional symptoms include fuzzy headedness—an inability to think clearly—fatigue, weakness, irritability, and dehydration. Actually, the dehydration is generally due to flying at high altitudes without drinking enough water or other hydrating fluids. It contributes to the severity of jet lag. So one of the golden rules for avoiding or lessening jet lag is to drink plenty of fluids (not alcohol or sodas) while flying. See the section on dehydration for additional information.
Experts agree that resetting your internal body clock is imperative. Eating according to the time of your destination can help with this. For example, you arrive in Rome at 10:00 A.M. Your body thinks it’s one o’clock in the morning—you would prefer to be sleeping. By the time you clear customs and arrive at your aunt and uncle’s house, it’s 12:30 P.M. and your aunt has prepared an incredible meal. Mangia! Eat! Not only will you make your aunt happy, but your body will begin to think that it’s actually lunchtime. Yes, you’re still tired, but because you fooled your body by feeding it according to the hour, your adjustment to the new time zone will occur more quickly.
Lavender and peppermint essential oils can also come to the rescue. Think of lavender as the evening essential oil and peppermint as its morning counterpart. This is a rough rule of thumb, of course, and not to be taken too literally. Still, both essential oils are considered to have nervine properties—they act directly on the nervous system. Because lavender essential oil has a relaxing, mildly sedating action, you may prefer to use it at night when your want to coax your body and mind to slow down and sleep. Peppermint stimulates and would be appropriate to use in the morning instead of a cup of coffee. If you don’t have peppermint essential oil, rosemary can be substituted. Lavender can also be used in the tub, though peppermint might be a little too irritating for a bath. Place a few drops on a hankie instead, and breathe deeply. Using the oils in this manner, one at night and the other in the morning, again helps you reset your inner clock.
Melatonin is a natural hormone produced in the pineal gland of the brain; it helps regulate human circadian rhythms (the body’s clock). Around midevening the pineal gland secretes melatonin for several hours, which lowers your internal temperature and readies you for sleep. Melatonin can be used to reset your internal clock when traveling by using the following protocol. Begin taking 5 milligrams of melatonin each night an hour or two before bed for three nights before your trip. Take it again (5 milligrams) the night of your arrival. You may find that you need to take it for several nights afterward, as well. The recommended dosage for insomnia is 1 to 3 milligrams, so I don’t recommend taking the 5-milligram dose for very long.
One final tip: this comes from a dear friend with whom I had the pleasure of working for several years. Several of us had flown to London on a business trip and we arrived at our destination at 10:00 A.M. My friend explained that the only “sure cure” for jet lag consisted of two very specific things. First, we had to stay awake all day—no naps that would inevitably turn into a full night’s sleep. One was to walk about the town or go to the office. Easy choice, that one! The second item—the “active ingredient”—was one’s dinner. My friend explained that we must “go out for curry.” This didn’t just mean that we ate curried vegetables somewhere. It meant that we spent two hours partaking of a full Indian meal and then washed it down with a bottle of Indian beer. I admit I was dubious at first, and then delighted with the meal, but best of all, I slept a full nine hours that night and awoke refreshed and ready to go the next morning. In the years since, I have tried to rationalize this phenomenon by believing that it was a just a case of setting our internal clocks. But truthfully, I think it was the magic of the curry and being with friends.
MENSTRUAL CRAMPS
Sometimes referred to as dysmenorrhea, which really means “painful menstruation,” menstrual cramps have been experienced by most women at some point in their lives. Interestingly enough, it wasn’t until fairly recently that the medical establishment recognized cramps as real; previously it preferred to classify the complaint as psychosomatic.
Nutritional modification can help alleviate cramping, but it should be continued for a period of time to be effective. Evening primrose oil—take two 500-milligram capsules three times a day—will help by affecting prostaglandin levels, which in turn affect inflammation and pain. Sometimes cramping is due to calcium or magnesium deficiencies. Eating more dark, leafy greens such as spinach, chard, and kale will help, as will eating almonds and sesame seeds. If you feel more comfortable taking supplements, the recommended dosages are 800 milligrams of calcium and 1,000 milligrams of magnesium taken nightly.
For situational relief, movement helps. Try walking, stretching, or yoga (inverted positions are not recommended while menstruating). Amanda McQuade Crawford recommends the following: Lying flat on your back, bring your knees to your chest and rock gently back and forth. This particular movement will apply gentle pressure to the lower back, where cramping is often felt. It also promotes blood flow in the pelvic region.
CRAMP OIL
Essential oils are particularly useful for painful cramping. This blend can easily be made ahead of time and placed in your first-aid kit.
1 ounce sweet almond oil (infused with dandelion flowers is a plus, since they are pain relieving)
4 drops lavender essential oil
4 drops clary sage essential oil
2 drops ginger essential oil
2 drops marjoram essential oil
Lavender relaxes, ginger warms, marjoram is an antispasmodic, and clary sage is a specific for menstrual pain. To use, shake the container to disperse the essential oils in the carrier oil, pour a small amount into your hands, and rub it over your lower abdominal area. A warm towel placed over the abdomen would feel nice, too.
Cramp bark (Viburnum opulus) is considered a uterine nervine and is the herb of choice for menstrual cramping. Containing one of the same constituents as valerian (Valeriana officinalis), valerianic acid, it is both an antispasmodic and a sedative. It combines well with valerian to relieve cramping; both can be found in most products specifically formulated for relieving cramps. If you prefer to make your own remedy, simply combine 1 part valerian root with 1 part cramp bark and follow the instructions for making tinctures in that section. Take 15 drops of the valerian–cramp bark tincture every 15 minutes for up to an hour or until the cramping subsides.
Once nausea sets in, especially when it’s due to motion sickness, it’s hard to overcome. There are a few old standby remedies—most women who’ve been pregnant have heard of or used at least one of them—which help suppress nausea. The first is good old-fashioned soda crackers. The unsalted ones don’t work as well, in my opinion. There’s something about the salt content that eases an unsettled stomach. In a pinch, my sister has even turned to salt from the little packets on the airplane—and it’s worked. If salt intake is not an issue for you, munch on a few Saltines and see if you don’t feel better.
Ginger ale is the another suggestion. It works, but not as well as ginger capsules or fresh diced ginger, if you can get it. The recommended amount is 500 milligrams of powdered, capped ginger every two hours until you feel better. I like taking it before I get on a plane or bus and then continuing it as suggested above if motion sickness becomes a problem. My husband chews on approximately 1 teaspoon of diced ginger every hour when he’s sailing to remain feeling reasonably well. Flat Coca-Cola also seems to work for nausea, especially if it’s due to intestinal flu or a hangover. Take little sips often until the symptoms abate. I have used still-fizzy Coca-Cola in a pinch and it worked for me, but some health care practitioners warn that the carbonation can make matters worse.
Most health food stores carry special acupressure bands for motion sickness. These are ½-inch-wide cloth-covered elastic bands that have a small rubber bump attached to the inside. The bands are worn around the wrist with the “bump” positioned over a specific acupuncture point (the directions on the package show you where). Stimulating the point is thought to reduce nausea. When I was working in at an alternative “pharmacy,” a number of customers reported that the bands worked well for them. They particularly liked the idea of not having to ingest anything. Check your local health food store for more information.
Smelling ginger or peppermint essential oil also helps dispel nausea. Try placing a couple of drops of either oil on a tissue. When you feel ill, smell the tissue. This can be continued every 5 minutes (or more often if needed) until you feel better.
MUSCLE ACHES
You may find yourself more active than usual when traveling, especially if you’re backpacking, and sore muscles may be the result. Tiger Balm has always been my son’s favorite choice for sore, aching muscles, and I actually think he might marry a woman if she were to wear Tiger Balm as a perfume. I like Tiger Liniment, a liquid version of Tiger Balm. You can purchase Tiger Balm in small tins that make it easily portable—but keep it in a plastic bag. Mine got hot, melted all over my small first-aid kit, and created a mess, albeit a good-smelling one. To use either product, just massage it into the sore muscles. Keep in mind that you’ll smell strongly of wintergreen, so this remedy might be best used at night. Also, be sure to wash your hands with soap after applying the salve or liniment. You don’t want to get this in your eyes or on other sensitive parts of the body.
Homeopathic arnica taken internally will relieve sore muscles as well. Follow the dosage instructions on the bottle of the particular product you buy. Traumeel is a general anti-inflammatory and analgesic homeopathic formulation used externally—just rub it on the sore areas. It’s available in most large health food stores. If you can’t find it, you might try a local acupuncturist, chiropractor, or homeopath.
MUSCLE OIL BLEND
I like to use this herbal oil blend as a massage oil for relieving pain. I make it myself but have found similar products available for purchase, if you’d prefer not to go to the trouble.
1 part St. John’s wort oil
1 part dandelion flower oil
1 part arnica oil
lavender essential oil (12 drops for every ounce of the herbal oil blend)
Both St. John’s wort and arnica oils may be purchased, but I haven’t seen dandelion flower oil available commercially. I make this up myself in spring when dandelions are abundantly in flower. Just ask your neighbors if you might pick their dandelions—they’ll be forever grateful, and you’ll have great pain-relieving oil. Follow the instructions for making herbal oils in the oils and salves section.
PAIN
There are all kinds of pain—muscle, abdominal, menstrual, joint—and most of them have been covered under the appropriate sections in this book. In general, pain is often due to inflammation of some sort. In addition to using an analgesic—a substance that relieves pain—it helps to reduce the inflammation.
Anti-inflammatories were covered in the section on allergies, but it bears repeating that chamomile, while having a reputation as a gentle, child’s herb, is actually a rather strong anti-inflammatory. It may be taken on its own as an infusion (use 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried herb per 1 cup of hot water) or combined with other pain-relieving, anti-inflammatory herbs. Drink several cups of chamomile tea daily when you’re treating any inflammation. My favorite anti-inflammatory formula is manufactured by Herb Pharm and called Turmeric/Chamomile Compound. It contains turmeric (Curcuma longa), chamomile flower (Matricaria recutita), meadowsweet (Filipendula ulmaria), licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra), St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum), and arnica flower (Arnica montana). Arnica may be used internally in very small doses, but I do not personally formulate with it.
White willow (Salix lucida) bark contains the glycoside salicin, as does meadowsweet, and both are used for their analgesic properties. In fact, it’s believed that aspirin was named for meadowsweet’s former botanical name, Spiraea. White willow bark capsules may be purchased individually, but I prefer the herb in combination with others. Herb Pharm’s Willow/ Meadowsweet Compound is a good example.
Topical remedies for pain include St. John’s wort oil (the wonderful herb that seems to be known only for its antidepressant properties) arnica oil, and Traumeel. See the section on muscle aches for more information.
The infamous itching and oozing blisters caused by poison oak, ivy, and sumac are actually a dermatitis (inflammation of the skin) caused by coming in contact with the plant’s oils. Not everyone who touches the plants will get it; the contact dermatitis is an allergic reaction—if you aren’t allergic to them, nothing happens. Unfortunately, allergies can appear unexpectedly later in life.
Regardless of whether you have come into contact with poison oak, ivy, or sumac, the symptoms and treatments are essentially the same. To begin with, don’t use an oil-based product on the rash unless it has stopped oozing and is drying up. Current thought dictates that while the blisters are open and wet, oils will only spread the irritants. Instead, use something to dry up the blisters. If your travels will include being outdoors in areas that are known for poison ivy, oak, or sumac growth, you might consider preparing and taking along some mugwort (Artemesia vulgaris) liniment made with apple cider vinegar. It’s easy enough to prepare—just follow the instructions for making a tincture in the tinctures and liniments section, but use apple cider vinegar as the menstruum and mugwort for the plant material. A two-week maceration is probably sufficient. Strain and bottle the mugwort vinegar (it’s the remedy), and compost your mugwort. Be sure to label the bottle FOR EXTERNAL USE ON POISON OAK, IVY, AND SUMAC. To use it, just wet cotton balls or gauze with the liniment and apply to the rash. It will sting a bit, but it does a great job drying up the blisters. Apply several times a day. If you don’t have any mugwort vinegar, just use plain apple cider vinegar. It won’t be quite as effective, but it’s easily found in most places.
If the itching becomes severe and you find it difficult to rest, you might try any of the calming herbs or tinctures discussed in the sections on anxiety or stress. Kava (Piper methisticum), catnip (Nepeta cataria), chamomile (Matricaria recutita), and valerian (Valeriana officinalis), work well, and can be taken in the same manner described in those two sections. Even drinking 3 to 4 cups of chamomile tea throughout the day will help, easing both distress and inflammation.
A natural remedy that my husband finds very helpful for relieving the itching and pain associated with poison oak is a paste made from bentonite clay and water. Bentonite clay reacts quite differently from other clays when mixed with water—it tends to become gel-like and requires more water than other clays to get the right consistency. To make this paste, place a couple of tablespoons of bentonite clay in a bowl (preferably ceramic) and mix in a bit of water at time. A fork seems to work better than a spoon for breaking up lumps. Once the paste is ready, apply it to the affected areas. Keep in mind that it takes longer to dry than other clays. It may be left on or washed off gently (mugwort vinegar would make a good wash).
Most people find that heat tends to worsen itching. If hot weather does become a problem, cool showers will help relieve the intensity of the itching. Lukewarm baths made with colloidal oats (Aveeno) work as well. The oats are a demulcent and act to soothe inflamed, itchy skin.
If the case of poison ivy, oak, or sumac is severe enough, it can become systemic—which essentially means that the toxins have entered the entire system. That’s why folks sometimes find that just as one patch of rash begins to clear up, another one starts in an area of the body that never came into contact with the plants. This can be quite serious and may require medical attention. If you seem to be handling the rash outbreaks all right, Shatoiya de la Tour recommends drinking 3 to 4 cups of sassafras (Sassafras albidum) tea throughout the day. Sassafras is considered an alterative and helps the liver cleanse toxins from the blood. It is, however, somewhat difficult on the liver if taken for extended periods and should not be used if you have a compromised liver (hepatitis, cirrhosis, or the like). Since the part of sassafras used is the bark, the tea must be made as a decoction; see the section on teas for more information. Use 1 to 2 teaspoons of sassafras for each cup of water and simmer gently for 15 minutes.
SINUSITIS
An infection and inflammation of the sinuses, sinusitis may occur as a secondary infection resulting from a cold or allergies. Many of the same remedies used to treat congestion can also be used for sinusitis. Because infection is present, herbs with antibacterial properties may be employed as well.
To deliver the plant’s properties directly to the sinuses, try herbal steams (see the section on congestion for directions) made with essential oils. Bay, eucalyptus, and rosemary are all good essential oils for sinus problems. If it’s impossible to make an herbal steam or if time is short, place a few drops of any of the oils listed above on a tissue and breathe in their aroma. One nice thing about the tissue trick is that you can use it all day long, refreshing it once in a while when the volatile oils have evaporated completely.
Garlic has long been known for its antibacterial and antiviral properties, but what seems less known is that it must be eaten raw to gain those benefits. When garlic is bruised or crushed, it produces a compound called allicin, which is primarily responsible for the plant’s antibiotic activity. Cooking seems to destroy garlic’s antibacterial properties. Most herbalists suggest eating 1 to 3 cloves of raw garlic three times a day to get the beneficial effect. This is a lot, but if you add it to a salad or crush it raw over spaghetti, it won’t seem so difficult. If your travel takes you to any of the Mediterranean countries, finding garlic will be easy indeed.
Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) is specific to infections of the sinuses and mucous membranes and is often recommended combined with echinacea (Echinacea spp.). If you read Stephen Harrod Buhner’s Herbal Antibiotics, it will become clear that herbalists do not agree on goldenseal’s actual healing attributes. Furthermore, most environmentally aware herbalists also believe goldenseal to be an endangered plant. My feeling is that if you can find a product made with cultivated goldenseal and echinacea, it’s worth trying. The recommended dosage for an acute situation is 30 to 45 drops three to five times a day until the symptoms clear. If your sinusitis does not resolve within a week or if fever is present, consult with your health care practitioner.
SORE FEET
What travel doesn’t include sore feet? They’re a fact of life when you’re backpacking, and it’s certainly not considered proper wilderness etiquette to complain about them. Most tours consist of long walks interspersed with long bus rides, so you can pretty much bet on a couple of sore pups by the end of the day.
Fortunately, relief is only as far away as your hotel room (or campsite), where you can finally prop your feet up. Elevating your feet will allow lymphatic fluids to drain back toward your heart and will relieve pressure that has built up over the day. After you’ve had a chance to relax a bit, draw a hot, shallow bath for your feet. Throw in a few drops of lavender or chamomile essential oil for a more relaxing experience, and let your feet soak for at least 10 minutes. If you’re camping, heat up some water and fill the dishwashing basin for a nice foot soak—just wash it out afterward!
Once you’re done soaking, dry your feet and follow it up with a foot massage. This is nicest if you can get someone else to give it to you, but you can still do it yourself effectively. Peppermint essential oil’s invigorating properties feel extra special on sore feet. Pour a bit of unscented lotion or vegetable oil in your hand and add a drop or two of peppermint essential oil. Rub your palms together, distributing the essential oil, and then massage into your feet. While the peppermint oil will at first feel cooling, it’s actually warming. It’s much like topical applications such as Tiger Balm—people can never agree whether it’s hot or cold!
SORE THROAT
Sore throats sometimes are the result of an allergy, but more often than not they herald a cold. They can also mean strep throat or tonsillitis. What should you do if you get one while traveling? A warm saltwater gargle is an old-fashioned remedy that works. Not only soothing and healing, the salt also disinfects the throat. Place 1 to 2 teaspoons of salt in a glass of warm water. (A hotel-sized glass is perfect.) Take a little sip of the warm salt water without swallowing, tilt your head back, and gargle by gently forcing air out through your mouth. If you haven’t gargled before, it feels like a whirlpool at the back of your throat. Gargle for about 5 seconds and spit out the water. Continue gargling with the remaining salt water. While you shouldn’t swallow the salt water, some is inevitably consumed, so if you have high blood pressure, edema, or any constraints regarding your salt intake you might want to skip this treatment. I find that doing this every couple of hours really helps to clear away any debris from postnasal drip.
Herbal throat lozenges are easy to pack, and sucking on them will relieve some of the pain associated with a sore throat. I prefer the kind with a bit of eucalyptus, since a stuffy nose often accompanies a sore throat. The volatile oils from the eucalyptus help open up the sinuses so it’s easier to breathe.
I once complained of frequent sore throats to a massage therapist, who recommended a month’s course of sage tea taken twice daily. Her advice turned out to be excellent. Sage (Salvia officinalis), the garden variety, is both antiseptic and antibacterial in action. In addition, it’s an astringent, so it’s particularly useful for “wet” infections where some mucus is present—namely sore throats. To make sage tea, steep 2 teaspoons of the leaf in 1 cup of hot water for 15 minutes. This may be drunk several times throughout the day or may be used as an excellent gargling solution. In fact, this would be a good substitute for a saltwater gargle if you don’t tolerate salt. Sage is a Mediterranean plant but is generally found throughout much of the Western world. If you haven’t any in your kit, you might find fresh sage locally—just be certain of your source or comfortable with your identification skills.
I’ve mentioned Herb Pharm’s Echinacea/Propolis Spray several times elsewhere in this book, but sore throats are its primary use. Containing echinacea, propolis, hyssop, sage, and St. John’s wort, it relieves pain and helps clear up any infection. It tastes great, too, but then I think most herbs taste good. This might be an acquired taste! To use, spray the back of your throat two or three times and repeat every half hour to two hours, depending on the severity of the sore throat. Finally, remember to drink a lot of liquids. Doing so will keep your throat cool and wet and will flush toxins from your body.
SPLINTERS
These are also called slivers. The main problem with them, obviously, is to remove the offending debris while disturbing the surrounding tissues as little as possible. You’ll also want to disinfect the area both before removing the splinter and afterward.
You can remove a splinter with either a needle or tweezers; the needle often works better if there’s nothing for a pair of tweezers to grab on to. Whatever implement you decide to use, please be sure to clean it prior to use—either with isopropyl alcohol or a prepackaged disinfectant wipe, or by sterilizing it for few moments with a lit match.
Once the splinter has been removed, clean the area with some sort of disenfectant. I’ve used echinacea-goldenseal tincture in a pinch, but my favorite is Dr. Kloss’s Liniment, made with isopropyl alcohol, goldenseal, cayenne, and myrrh. You can make this yourself; the recipe can be found in Jethro Kloss’s book, Back to Eden. Hydrogen peroxide or prepackaged disenfectant wipes can also be used.
If you’re unable to remove all of a difficult splinter, a plantain (Plantago spp.) poultice will often finish the job. It’s best if you can get fresh plantain, but if not, the dried variety will work as well. See the section on abscesses and boils for a detailed description on using poultices. You may find that you need to apply several plantain poultices to extract the splinter; it often works best to leave one on overnight.
SPRAINS
A sprain occurs when the ligaments surrounding a joint are pulled and stretched too far. It’s a common injury, especially when walking or hiking. The first thing I give when someone has sprained an ankle—or incurred any other type of injury, for that matter—is 4 drops of Rescue Remedy. A sprain happens suddenly and hurts. Rescue Remedy is perfect for such a situation; it will help calm the individual so other treatments will be more effective.
Next, a dose of homeopathic arnica is required. On my top 10 list, arnica may be used for any kind of traumatic injury to the body and has even been found helpful in reducing postoperative swelling, particularly in dental surgery. Repeat the dose every hour or two for the first twenty-four hours, and then reduce to three to five times a day until the pain and swelling have subsided. I generally purchase homeopathic arnica in the 30x strength.
Be particularly careful if a fracture is suspected. If there’s a lot of swelling or heavy bruising, or if the individual cannot walk or bend the injured limb, it’s important to get medical attention as soon as possible. If the injury truly seems to be a simple sprain, the current treatment is RICE: “rest, ice, compression, and elevation.” Essentially this means that the patient should lie down, raise and ice the injured area, and apply a compress that will reduce swelling. Resting and elevating aren’t too difficult to do while traveling, but it might be a bit more involved to accomplish icing and prepare a compress.
If you’re anywhere near a grocey store, purchase a couple of bags of frozen peas. Place one over the sprained area to cool the inflammation and reduce swelling. Frozen peas work better than ice because they’re smaller and conform to the body more easily—plus they come in their own bag. If you have access to a freezer, you can stick the peas back in and reuse them for icing. Place a thin towel between the skin and the peas (or ice, if you’re using an ice bag) to prevent injuring the skin. Keep the bag in place for 15 minutes, take a 30-minute break, and then reapply the peas or ice in this manner until the swelling has decreased, making sure to take a break from the ice every 15 to 30 minutes.
You might want to alternate between ice and a cool compress. Compresses for a sprain should be made with cold water and herbal tinctures and/or essential oils. Any of the following will work: St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum) tincture, arnica (Arnica montana) tincture, comfrey (Symphytum officinale) tincture, and lavender, rosemary,and marjoram essential oils. If you’re using tinctures, add 1 tablespoon to ½ cup of cold water. A few drops of one of the recommended essential oils can also be added. Soak a soft cloth in the cold herbal water, wring it out, and apply it to the sprain. If you have an Ace bandage, you can use it to hold the compress in place by wrapping the area loosely.
At night gently massage a bit of St. John’s wort or arnica oil into the injured area. Both are pain relieving and will help the tissues heal. Be sure not to use arnica if the skin is broken.
STRESS
David Hoffmann defines stress in his book An Herbal Guide to Stress Relief as “the response of the body to a demand.” It’s an all-encompassing definition and it’s true that to the body, getting married—usually thought of as a positive event—feels the same as getting fired. The body doesn’t necessarily differentiate between “good” and “bad” when stress is a factor. This section deals briefly with alternative ways to de-stress. There are also many books out on the subject. David Hoffmann’s is one; another is Christopher Hobbs’s Stress and Natural Healing. Both are excellent.
Siberian ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosus) is recommended by Lois Johnson, M.D., as a preventive. She suggests starting it several weeks prior to your trip. Siberian ginseng works as an adaptogen, helping the body adapt to stress. It is not a true ginseng and seems to be milder in action, giving it a wider application. Try 30 to 45 drops three times a day.
Since the body responds to stressors in a physical manner, it helps to respond in the same way when stressed. Exercise is a time-honored treatment. One of the ways the body reacts when stressed is to pump a bunch of adrenaline in the system. It’s part of the “fight-or-flight” response, and it’s meant to help propel our bodies into action. Usually we just sit around and drink more coffee—not a great idea. Instead, get active. Go for a walk. Use the gym or pool at your hotel. Do calisthenics or yoga in your hotel room.
Once you’ve worked up a sweat, relaxation is next. If you meditate, you probably already know that it’s great for relieving stress. If not, vacation is a good time to start the practice. Simply put on comfortable clothing, place a pillow on the floor next to the wall, and sit cross-legged with your back resting against the wall. Close your eyes and breathe slowly and deeply. As you breathe slowly in, focus on your breath and how it feels as it moves up your nostrils. As you breathe out, focus on the movement your abdomen makes as the breath is released. Whether you focus on your breath or instead repeat a simple, soulful phrase in your mind doesn’t matter. It doesn’t even matter if your thoughts turn to something else. Simply notice it, smile inwardly, and go back to your original focus. Do this for 20 minutes. Whether you believe it or not, the relaxation this brings to a stressed body is immeasurable.
Valerian (Valeriana officinalis), the herbal “vitamin V,” is one of my favorite botanical remedies for relieving stress, particularly when the symptoms include insomnia. With this particular plant, you use the root, but due to its high content of volatile oils you prepare the root as an infusion rather than a decoction. Use 1 to 4 teaspoons per 1 cup of hot water and let it infuse for 15 minutes before drinking. Be sure to cover the cup or pot while steeping so that the volatile oils remain where they belong—in the tea. If insomnia is a stress reaction for you, drink a couple of cups of valerian tea an hour or two before bedtime. For some people, valerian is more easily taken as a tincture. See the section on insomnia for dosage amounts and the note regarding valerian’s opposing action in certan people.
California poppy (Eschscholzia californica) is similar to valerian in that it has hypnotic and sedative actions and is best taken before bedtime. While it’s a poppy, it is nonaddictive. One note: The California poppy is the state flower of California. If you happen to be traveling to California during late spring or summer and are out and among these beautiful golden flowers, don’t pick any for your tea. It’s illegal to pick them in the wild in California. Read John Steinbeck’s description of spring in the Californian foothills in the first few pages of East of Eden to understand why. They are simply stunning! California poppy can be used as a tincture; take 30 to 45 drops at night.
Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) is wonderful taken as a tea because it has a lovely, mild lemony flavor. In addition to being a relaxant, it has a mild carminative action, which makes it doubly useful if part of your stress is due to indigestion. To prepare lemon balm tea, use 2 to 4 teaspoons per 1 cup of hot water. Let it steep for 10 minutes before drinking.
I like using lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) best in its essential oil form, in a bath or on a tissue, but the herb, not the essential oil, can also be taken as a tincture or standard infusion. If you’re using a tincture, try 30 to 45 drops three times a day. A tea may be made of 2 to 4 teaspoons of the lavender flowers per 1 cup of hot water. Let it steep for 15 minutes before drinking; as when preparing a valerian infusion, make sure to cover the cup or pot to retain lavender’s volatile oils. If you happen to be in Provence in summer, indulge in a picnic among the fields of lavender. The scent alone will leave everyone blissful.
If you can, book a massage. If you’re on vacation, you deserve one, and if you’re on a business trip you really deserve one! Massage therapy is one of the best ways to relieve stress. It helps the body move stress-related toxins through the lymph system (drink lots of water afterward), is soothing to the soul, and feels incredible. Ask specifically for an aromatherapy treatment and let them know you want to de-stress. If they don’t have an aromatherapist on staff, take along some lavender essential oil and ask them to add a few drops to the massage oil they plan to use on you. Finally, I think about what my mother always told me when I was particularly upset about something or other: “This too shall pass.”
SWOLLEN FEET OR ANKLES
Often the result of air and auto travel, as well as long excursions exploring your destination, swollen feet and ankles can put an end to any comfort you might have had up to that point. To avoid the problem, don’t eat foods that you know cause water retention. Excess salt is often a culprit. Make sure to keep your body hydrated. Paradoxically, drinking a lot of water works as a mild diuretic—it helps your body rid itself of excess water. Try to elevate your feet as often as possible. This isn’t often possible in a cramped airplane, but if you’re fortunate enough to be on a half-full flight, take advantage of any extra seating to get your feet up. Lois Johnson, M.D., recommends hourly calf stretches. Simply flex your foot at the ankle repeatedly for about 30 seconds. Repeat with the other foot. This little exercise helps to move fluids through the lymphatic system, relieving buildup in your feet. If the inevitable happens, try a witch hazel spritzer.
Witch Hazel Spritzer
Spritzers are magic in a bottle. You can make them up and use them for all sorts of things. Fill a small 2- to 4-ounce spray-pump bottle (plastic is best for traveling, but glass will do as well) with witch hazel extract. Add 20 to 40 drops of either peppermint or lavender essential oil, cap, and shake. Take this spritzer bottle with you on your travels and spray your feet with it when they become swollen. Witch hazel is an astringent and will temporarily tighten the tissues of your feet. Peppermint essential oil is cooling, invigorating, and analgesic—it will work gently on any pain accompanying tired, swollen feet. Lavender essential oil is relaxing, smells refreshing, and also has mild analgesic activity. Use whichever suits your spirit, and nose, the best. A wonderful feature of this preparation is that you can spray it directly over your nylons. The witch hazel evaporates quickly, so there’s no need to take your pantyhose off. Socks will have to be removed, of course! Another plus is the effect of essential oils on stale, smelly feet.
TRAUMA
It isn’t pleasant to imagine the kinds of traumatic experiences you might have while traveling. It’s also true that the severity of trauma varies widely; what might be traumatic for one person is simply an inconvenience for another. I’m hoping that you encounter nothing more than inconvenience in your travels.
When trauma is an issue, though, Rescue Remedy should be your first choice. There are some who feel that no matter what the ailment or problem, Rescue Remedy is useful. It certainly won’t hurt. That’s why you’ll often hear flower essence practitioners refer to Rescue Remedy as the “first-aid kit in a bottle.” Also remember that illness or injury is often traumatic for those involved in caring for the individual or who might have seen an accident take place. These folks should take Rescue Remedy as well. The standard dosage is 4 drops under the tongue. This can be repeated at 15-minute intervals for severe trauma, or three to five times a day for a situational inconvenience. One trick is to put 12 drops of Rescue Remedy into a bottle filled with water and drink it throughout the day if you know that the whole day is going to be difficult. A perfect example is air travel. Not only will drinking from a water bottle laced with Rescue Remedy make the flight more pleasant, but you’ll be hydrating yourself simultaneously. Anytime you make a compress, add a few drops of Rescue Remedy.
My second choice is lavender essential oil. Simply place a few drops on a tissue and give it to the person who is experiencing trauma. Like Rescue Remedy, it may be beneficial for everyone involved, so pass those lavender tissues around. Here’s to a trauma-free trip!
YEAST INFECTIONS
Yeast infections are caused by the overgrowth of an organism called Candida albicans, which lives in the vagina. Formerly called Monilia, this organism is both a fungus and a yeast, depending on when it’s examined. Candida and other organisms are present in all healthy vaginas, but under certain conditions they will quickly multiply and cause the symptoms associated with a yeast infection.
Vaginas are normally self-cleansing; they do so by secreting mucus from the vaginal walls. This will result in small amounts of discharge, which may change in both amount and color throughout the monthly cycle. This discharge is entirely normal. However, one of the signs of a vaginal infection is an atypical discharge, meaning one that’s different in color, amount, or odor than what’s usual. A yeast infection will produce a white, curdlike discharge with a yeasty, foul odor. Often there’s itchiness present, as well as soreness and inflammation around the vagina. Sexual intercourse can be quite painful at this time.
What causes a yeast infection? As noted above, the offending organism lives, in check, in all healthy vaginas. But a number of situations can lead to rapid overgrowth of the organism. Weakness in the immune system, caused by stress or by allowing yourself to become generally run down, will allow the organism to multiply unchecked. Changing your diet to one of rich foods with concentrated amounts of sugar and animal proteins can provide an appropriate environment for Candida overgrowth. Sexual intercourse can also have an unfortunate effect in that the presence of semen raises the vagina’s pH and causes it to become more alkaline, creating a more hospitable environment for the Candida.
Travel and holidays abroad often create all three of the conditions noted above. Long, cramped trips on an airplane supplied with recycled, stale air and little sleep put undue stress on a body. A vacation just isn’t a vacation if you don’t get to indulge in a few of your favorite foods—especially those that aren’t “good” for you. And if you’re lucky enough to travel with your partner, you might find that you’re both more amorous than usual.
Fortunately, there are remedies for the situation that aren’t necessarily difficult to obtain, even in the remotest of locations. Also, if you’re prone to yeast infections, it’s wise to be prepared. You might want to make up a few of the following preparations and take them with you, especially if you’ll be backpacking and away from civilization. In addition, it helps to avoid sexual intercourse until the infection has resolved itself—you probably won’t feel much like lovemaking anyway. Don’t wash with soap; cool, pure water is best in this situation. To help keep the vaginal tissues dry, dust with cornstarch morning and night. Forget about wearing tight-fitting pants and try to wear cotton underwear—or at least underwear with a cotton crotch. Choose whole foods if possible, and avoid or limit your intake of alcohol, coffee, black tea, and sugar.
Yogurt
One of the easiest and most soothing remedies for a vaginal yeast infection is plain, unsweetened, unflavored yogurt. You should be able to find it pretty much anywhere. There are several ways to use the yogurt. First, you can eat it daily as a preventive measure if you know you’re susceptible, although you really want to get the yogurt straight to the source. To do this, soak a tampon (made from organic cotton, if possible, but certainly don’t stress about it if these aren’t available—any kind will do) in the yogurt and then insert it into the vagina as best you can. You’ll need to use your fingers; an applicator will be useless at this point. This is a messy procedure and, once it’s done, you’ll need to lie down and stay put for a while. Be sure to put a towel or some kind of protective covering underneath you. If you can leave the tampon in overnight, so much the better, but even an hour or two will help. Upon arising, remove the tampon and wash well with cool water only. You may find that you need to do this once or twice a day until the infection clears up.
Another method that’s less troublesome—although it’s also somewhat less effective, because the yogurt doesn’t get inside well—is to apply the yogurt directly to the vaginal area. Be sure to coat all vaginal tissues. Again, you will need to lie down and rest, which can be medicine in itself. Our bodies have a great number of ways to tell us to rest. The yogurt will cool and soothe the inflamed tissues and should feel wonderful once you’re able to relax.
Tea Tree Douche
I must preface this section by saying that I’ve never tried a tea tree douche. I know women who have, and they’ve told me that while it stings, it can be very effective. The treatment requires having a douche bag at your disposal, something you aren’t likely to pack when traveling. But they aren’t uncommon in Europe and you should be able to find one if you decide to try it. There are a number of variations on the following douche recipe; this is a pared-down version (simpler for travel) of one suggested by Kathi Keville in her book Herbs for Health and Healing.
Put 6 drops of tea tree essential oil in 3 cups of warm water. Add this to a douche bag and shake well. This combination should be used once a day. Kathi recommends not using it for longer than five days.
Salt Bath
Stress exacerbates yeast conditions, so any relief from the wear and tear of traveling is useful. A warm bath will facilitate relaxation and, coupled with a cup or two of sea salt, will help control a yeast infection. Finding sea salt shouldn’t be a problem in most locations.
To take a salt bath, fill a tub with warm water—not too hot—and add 2 cups of sea salt. Five to 7 drops of lavender essential oil thrown in for good measure will increase the bath’s relaxing properties. Soak in the tub for 10 to 15 minutes. Upon emerging, dry yourself completely, especially the vulva. It helps—and feels good—to gently dry your pubic area with a hair dryer set on cool or warm. Dust with cornstarch if you have it.
Tincture
An effective internal remedy that you can use in conjunction with any of the external treatments above is the old traveler’s standby—echinacea-goldenseal tincture. Certainly this item does double duty and more. At the first sign of infection, begin taking 30 to 45 drops of the tincture every two hours. As symptoms wane, you can reduce the intake of the tincture to 30 to 45 drops three times a day. Remember to continue taking the reduced dosage several days a week after the symptoms are gone.
Yeast infections can be difficult to eradicate. While the above remedies work well, if your infection gets worse or continues after you return home, it would be wise to consult your health care practitioner.