This chapter lists most of the medications referred to in this book, both natural and pharmaceutical. It includes common names (in parenthesis), important notes and their veterinary substitutes if applicable.
Veterinary substitutes are given because they are available without a prescription, and they also may be the only option available in certain circumstances. Only use veterinary substitutes as a very last resort.
Using the Medications Recommended in this Book
Brand names for drugs are given in parenthesis, but that does not mean that there are no other brands available.
Information presented here is by no means thorough, e.g., there are many unmentioned cautions and side effects.
Just because medications are not listed in the treatments does not mean they cannot be used, e.g., analgesics for general pain relief.
Just because there are medications listed in the treatments doesn’t mean you have to take them. They are there if needed. In fact, medications should be considered the last resort.
Mostly, the only medications mentioned in the diagnoses and treatments in this book are ones that have been listed here, but that does not mean they are the only options. Often there are many alternatives.
Self-medication can be dangerous, especially with prescription medication. If you have the option, always see a doctor before taking any medications.
Specific dosages are (mostly) only mentioned for those recommended in the first aid kit, and are only for healthy adults. Unless otherwise specified, they are for oral intake of instant release drugs, as opposed to IV, extended release etc. If you plan to keep other medications in your first aid kit, and/or for pediatric doses or other complications (e.g., pregnancy, compromised immune systems) research must be done.
The specific use for each type of medication (e.g., when to use it, dosage) is given under the relevant sections in the Diagnoses and Treatments.
IMPORTANT: recommendations often change when new research is done. If a medical professional is not available, it is best to consult the Physician’s Desk Reference or Drugs.com for the latest information on which drugs to use and correct dosages. Dosages given in this book are mainly from Drugs.com and are accurate at the time of publishing.
Alternative/Natural Remedies Vs Pharmaceuticals
In general, pharmaceutical companies do not make money off alternative/natural remedies. This means that they do not spend money researching them; therefore many alternative/natural remedies have not been scientifically proven to be effective. It does not mean that they do not work. Actually, even proven pharmaceuticals may not solve the problem. This is because we are all different, and therefore all medicines affect people differently.
One of the biggest pros for using alternative/natural remedies is that they usually have far less side effects than pharmaceuticals. This means that unless you are totally against the use of alternative/natural medicines, there is usually no harm in trying them first. If it does not work, you can always try the pharmaceutical afterwards.
Scientifically proven medications are recommended in emergency situations
General Safe Use Information for all Medications
The following applies to all medications, unless specifically stated otherwise:
Check for allergies: when unsure if a medication may cause an adverse reaction, test it first with a small dose in the manner that you would use it, e.g., oral, topical. Allergies may manifest as diarrhea, rash, respiratory problems etc.
Expiration dates: in most cases, using out-of-date medication will not have a negative effect. They probably just won’t be as potent as they would be if used within the expiration date. Research has shown that many medicines are still acceptable for use 10 to 15 years after the expiration date (liquid forms lose potency much more quickly, e.g., insulin). However, if you can update you medications, do so.
Follow instructions and warnings: instruction and warning/caution labels on medications are there for a reason. Follow them strictly. If a doctor gives you advice about the medication, e.g., dosage, follow it.
For people that are unable to swallow pills, e.g., small children: the pill can be crushed or emptied (if a capsule) into a cup of water and swallowed that way. It is best to use a smaller cup, and then refill it to get all the residue particles. Flavoring can also be added if needed. Do not chew or make a liquid out of time-released capsules.
Know the possible side effects: an allergic reaction may not be an allergic reaction at all. It may be a known side effect that you just have to deal with while taking the medication. Also, if you know what the side effects may be, you can adjust your life around them, e.g., if drowsiness is a side effect, don’t drive.
Mark all medications well: if you take medications out of the packet (e.g., to save space) ensure you correctly label them along with dosage and any other pertinent information.
Medication may mask underlying problem(s): treating symptoms without knowing the cause is dangerous, and will usually result in slower healing and/or re-occurring problems. Treat the cause first, and then treat the symptoms.
Stick to the recommended dosages: overmedication is extremely dangerous and will often result in a worse problem, perhaps even death. On the other hand, if you do not take enough (e.g., not completing a course of antibiotics) it may not completely eradicate the problem. The Physician’s Desk Reference or Drugs.com can give you exact dosages for many ailments.
Store medications properly: most medications keep best in cool, dry, dark places, and preferably in a smoky container, as opposed to a clear one.
Analgesics, Anti-inflammatory and Fever Reducers
Check for allergies.
Don’t take if neurologically impaired.
Use the least potent medicine to do the job.
NSAIDs are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and are useful in injuries associated with swelling or other signs of inflammation.
Pain relief and fever reducer in the case of infection, good for children.
Adult dose: 1000 mg every 6 to 8 hours.
NSAID, pain-reliever, fever reducer in case of infection and anti-inflammatory.
Cautions: do not give aspirin to anyone under 20 years, unless specifically prescribed by a doctor.
Side effects: blood thinning, upset stomach.
Adult dose: 325 to 650 mg every 4 hours as needed, not to exceed 4 g/day.
Corticosteroids (Prednisone, Cortisone)
Strong anti-inflammatory and analgesic.
Side effects: acne, appetite loss, heartburn, increased sweating, insomnia, nausea, vomiting.
Adult dose: 5 to 60 mg per day in evenly divided doses 1 to 4 times/day.
Also available as a topical cream.
Muscle relaxant and sedative.
Cautions: do not use for persons under 15 years.
Side effects: constipation, dizziness, drowsiness.
Adult dose: 5 to 10 mg 3 times/day (start at 5 mg and increase if needed).
Strong pain relief, cough suppressant.
Side effects: anxiety, blurred vision, constipation, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, headache, nausea, ringing in ears, upset stomach, vomiting.
Adult dose: 5 mg every 4 to 6 hours.
NSAID, pain reliever, fever reducer in the case of infection and anti-inflammatory.
Considered the weakest of the NSAIDs, but still very effective and with less severity of side effects; doses greater than 400 mg do not enhance effectiveness.
Side effects: blood thinning, stomach upset.
Adult dose: 200 to 400 mg every 4 to 6 hours as needed.
Topical gel.
Cautions: do not cover more than 5 % total body surface area, do not repeat use.
Usually takes 5 to 10 minutes to take effect.
NSAID, pain reliever, fever reducer in the case of infection and anti-inflammatory.
Stronger than other NSAIDs but takes longer to work.
Cautions: take in fewer doses (as compared to other NSAIDs) with lots of water, not recommended for children under 15 years.
Side effects: blood thinning, upset stomach (more so than aspirin).
Adult dose: naproxen sodium 220 mg every 8 hours as needed.
Extreme pain relief.
Cautions: high potential for addiction (opioid).
Side effects: constipation, diarrhea, dizziness, drowsiness, dry mouth, gas, headache, heartburn.
Adult dose: 5 to 15 mg every 4 to 6 hours.
Alternative/Natural Analgesics, Anti-inflammatory and Fever Reducers
Clove oil: apply topically as an anti-inflammatory and analgesic.
Ginger: ginger root tea may decrease inflammation and provide pain relief.
Herbal Teas: chamomile, mint and rosemary teas (amongst others) are mild muscle relaxants.
Ice: apply topically to numb the skin.
Oatmeal: reduces healing related itching.
Ø Add 1 to 2 cups of raw oats to a lukewarm bath as it is filling.
Ø Soak in the bath for 15 to 20 minutes.
Ø Air dry so a thin coating remains on your skin.
Ø Repeat as needed.
Salicin: analgesic, anti-inflammatory and fever reducer. Salicin is what aspirin is made from; Must Read – Medications Guide – Medicinal Plants – Salicin.
Tannin: tannin will soothe itching and promote healing; Must Read – Medications Guide – Medicinal Plants – Salicin.
Ø Wash the area with black or green tea.
Ø Use as a compress or poultice and apply topically.
There are many different types of antibiotics, and each of them is used at specific dosages for specific illnesses. Some can also be used as a preventative measure (prophylactics).
The antibiotics referred to in this book were specifically chosen because they are multi-purpose and/or commonly accessible in the world and/or can be substituted with veterinary equivalents. Only consider veterinary equivalents that have the antibiotic as the sole ingredient, and only use them as a very last resort.
Alcohol consumption is not advised while taking antibiotics and for 3 days afterwards.
Antibiotics help your body to fight bacteria, but they do not work with viral infections. Respiratory infections are more likely to be viral.
Do not self-medicate/administer antibiotics unless there is no other option and you are 100% sure it is the right medication for the illness.
Over-use of antibiotics can create resistant bacteria and may cause severe allergic reactions. Only use them as a last resort.
There may be multiple antibiotics suggested in the treatments but, unless specifically directed, only use one.
In Diagnoses and Treatments, dosage recommendations are only given for the first three of the antibiotics listed here because they are the ones recommended in the first aid kit.
Amoxicillin/Clavulanate (Augmentin)
Cautions: do not use if allergic to penicillin.
Side effects: diarrhea, gas, headache, nausea or vomiting, skin rash or itching.
Cautions: do not use for children under 8 or pregnant women.
Side effects: diarrhea, headache, nausea, trouble sleeping.
Veterinary substitute: Fish Flox.
Cautions: do not use for children under 8 or pregnant women.
Side effects: diarrhea, nausea, skin rash, vaginal itching or discharge.
Dose for general bacterial infection: 200 mg on the first day, given in 2 divided doses, then 100 mg/24 hours or 100 mg/12 hours for severe cases.
Cautions: do not use if allergic to penicillin.
Side effects: diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain, swollen tongue.
Veterinary substitutes: Fish-Mox (250 mg), Fish-Mox Forte (500 mg).
Cautions: do not use if allergic to penicillin.
Side effects: headache, nausea, stomach pain, swollen tongue, thrush, vaginal itching or discharge.
Veterinary substitute: Fish-Cillin.
Side effects: constipation, decreased senses (e.g., hearing, smell, taste), diarrhea, dizziness, insomnia, nausea and vomiting, rash, stomach pain, tiredness.
Cautions: do not use if allergic to penicillin.
Side effects: diarrhea, dizziness, joint pain, nausea, tiredness, vaginal itchiness or discharge, vomiting
Veterinary substitute: Fish-Flex (250 mg), Fish-Flex Forte (500 mg)
Otic Drops for external ear infections or ointment for topical use.
Erythromycin Ophthalmic Ointment (Romycin)
Eye ointment for corneal abrasion, eye infections and snow blindness.
Side effects: blurred vision, eye stinging.
Cautions: stop use if tendon pain develops.
Side effects: dizziness, headache, gastrointestinal problems, insomnia, vaginal itching or discharge.
Cautions: do not use for children under 8 or pregnant women.
Side effects: abdominal pain, cold symptoms (e.g., cough, sneezing), diarrhea, loss of balance, nausea and vomiting (especially if consuming alcohol), sore tongue, vaginal itching or discharge.
Veterinary substitute: Fish-Zole
Sulfamethoxazole / Trimethoprim (Bactrim)
Cautions: do not use for children under 8 or pregnant women, do not use if allergic to sulfa drugs.
Side effects: dizziness, insomnia, painful tongue, ringing in ears, vomiting.
Veterinary substitute: Bird Sulfa.
Cautions: do not use for children under 8 or pregnant women.
Side effects. diarrhea, genital or rectal sores/swelling, nausea, oral sores, swollen tongue, trouble swallowing, vaginal itching or discharge, vomiting.
Veterinary substitute: Fish-Cycline.
Clotrimazole is available as a cream, lozenges, lotion, powder and vaginal suppository.
Side effects: foul smelling discharge (vaginal cream), skin irritation, stomach pain, vomiting (lozenges).
Cautions: do not use if allergic to fluconazole, do not use if you take cisapride, erythromycin, pimozide, or quinidine. Do not take more than one dose if pregnant.
Side effects: altered sense of taste, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, stomach pain.
Cautions: do not mix with other medications, do not take if you have liver problems.
Side effects: breast swelling, decreased libido, dizziness, headache, nausea, stomach pain, skin rash, vomiting.
Veterinary substitute: Fish-Fungus.
Miconazole is available as a cream, lotion, powder, spray-able liquid and suppository.
Side effects: foul smelling discharge (vaginal cream), skin irritation, stomach pain.
Alternative/Natural Antifungals
Clove oil.
Garlic.
Tannin.
Side effects: depleted co-ordination, difficulty urinating, dizziness, dry mouth, drowsiness, headache.
Standard adult dosages:
Ø Allergic Reaction: 25 mg to 50 mg (1 to 2 Benadryl capsules).
Ø Cough: 25 mg every 4 hours as needed, not to exceed 150 mg per day.
Ø Cold Symptoms: 25 to 50 mg every 4 to 6 hours as needed, not to exceed 300 mg/24 hours.
Ø Extrapyramidal Reaction (drug-induced movement disorders): 25 to 50 mg every 6 to 8 hours.
Ø Insomnia: 25 to 50 mg at bedtime.
Ø Motion Sickness: 25 to 50 mg every 6 to 8 hours. Administer first dose 30 minutes before exposure to motion and repeat before meals and upon retiring for the duration of the journey.
Also available as a topical cream.
Loratadine is used for relief of allergic rhinitis (hay-fever).
Side effects: dry mouth, fatigue, headache.
Adult dose: 10 mg once a day.
Cautions: do not drink, do not freeze or heat.
Use 10% for topical use, dilute to 1% for wound cleaning.
For disinfecting skin wounds.
Cautions: do not drink, do not freeze or heat, store at room temperature, shelf life is only 3 to 4 days.
Side effects: skin irritation may occur.
Making Dakin’s Solution
Add half a teaspoon (t) of baking soda to 4 cups of boiled/sterilized water.
Add bleach to reach desired strength.
3 teaspoons for wound cleaning.
3 Tablespoons for infected wounds.
100 milliliters for bad infections.
Alternative/Natural Antiseptics
Alcohol: high percentage drinking-alcohols can be used if nothing else is available, preferably 50% or more, e.g., whisky or vodka. Do not use beer or wine. Lemon juice can also work for minor cuts.
Clove oil.
Garlic.
Honey: especially good for burns.
Ø Liberally and completely cover affected area with honey so no air can get to it.
Ø Cover with cling wrap or waterproof dressings.
Ø Change dressing as needed, minimum of 3 times a day, do not wash off honey.
Ø Repeat until healed.
Ø Do not wash off the honey, up to 20 days (or earlier if healing is complete).
Side effects: agitation, diarrhea, dizziness, hair loss, joint pain, lethargy, rash, upset stomach, vomiting.
Side effects: diarrhea, gastrointestinal problems, headache, lethargy, nausea, rash, skin irritation, vomiting.
Cautions: Tamiflu should not be used as a replacement for your annual flu immunization, only works if used within 2 days of symptoms appearing.
Side effects: diarrhea, dizziness, eye redness, headache, insomnia, nausea, nosebleed, respiratory problems, vomiting.
Alternative/Natural Antivirals
Clove oil.
Garlic.
General Cautions:
Only use if well-aimed, direct pressure does not work.
In pencil or powder form.
Alternative/Natural Haemostatic’s
Cayenne pepper powder.
Cinnamon powder.
Acetazolamide is preferable as a preventative drug to be used before/during ascent.
Cautions: do not use if allergic to sulfa or penicillin, e.g., if a rash starts to develop a few days after ingestion.
Side effects: bitter taste of carbonated beverages, decreased blood clotting ability, decreased immune system, drowsiness, impotence, increased urine output, nausea, near-sightedness (myopia), tingling in hands and feet.
Adult dose for AMS (Altitude Sickness): 125 to 250 mg every 6 to 12 hours, maximum dose of 1 gram per day.
Dexamethasone is better for treatment, take in conjunction to descent.
Side effects: dizziness, headache, insomnia, skin problems (acne, dryness etc.)
Adult dose for AMS: 0.75 to 9 mg per day in divided doses every 6 to 12 hours.
Alternative/Natural High-Altitude Remedies
Coca leaves (tea or chewed) may help with altitude sickness.
Motion Sickness, Nausea and Vomiting
Dimenhydrinate is an antihistamine.
Side effects: blurred vision (rare), drowsiness, dry mouth (rare), headache (rare), loss of coordination (rare).
Adult dose: 50 to 100 mg every 4 to 6 hours, maximum of 400 mg in 24 hours. The first dose should be taken 30 to 60 minutes before starting activity.
Must Read – Medications Guide – Antihistamines.
Alternative/Natural Remedies for Motion Sickness, Nausea and Vomiting
Ginger is well known for relief of motion sickness.
There are many, many different essential oils, but this book focuses only on one, clove oil. It has been chosen for 3 main reasons:
1. It has a wide range of medicinal uses relevant to the traveler, e.g., digestive issues, disinfectant, insect repellent, fungus, nausea, pain relief, wound healing.
2. It is common and inexpensive. There are some ‘cure-all’ type blends which have a great many uses but they are brand named blends which you have to buy from specific distributors. Clove oil is available from anyone that stocks essential oils. Also, clove oil is the main ingredient in many of these blends anyway, so it does almost everything they do.
3. It is powerful. You get a lot of bang for your buck.
Safety and Precautions for Essential Oils
These precautions are for all essential oils, unless specifically stated.
Allergies: test for allergies before using therapeutically. To test topically, place two drops of diluted mixture on the inner side of the upper arm and cover it with a bandage so nothing else can contaminate it. If there are no adverse reactions after 36 hours you should be fine to use it.
If you ever use any essential oil topically and your skin gets irritated, add vegetable oil to it. Water will make it worse.
Note: if your skin is extra sensitive and/or you find you have a bad reaction to clove oil, you can try lavender oil instead. In can be used in pretty much the same way as clove oil, but is not as strong. Contrary to popular belief, lavender oil must also be diluted before use.
Anti-coagulant: clove oil has blood thinning properties so avoid it if you are taking other anti-coagulants.
Children: dilute more for children and do not use at all if under 2 years old.
Diabetics: clove oil can cause blood sugar to drop.
Dilution: always dilute appropriately. Besides not damaging yourself, you will save money and will not build up a resistance to its positive effects.
Eyes: do not get it into the eyes and be careful about touching your eyes after handling. If you do get it in your eye, irrigate immediately and copiously. Permanent damage is unlikely.
Flammability: some oils are flammable, so be careful around open flame.
Pregnant: pregnant and breastfeeding women should be cautious.
Therapeutic grade: only use therapeutic grade oils.
Touching: it takes about 20 minutes for essential oils to be absorbed into the skin, so be careful what you touch during this time after handling it.
When stored properly, pure clove oil will last about 18 months. If mixed with a carrier oil (what you dilute it with) that has a shorter shelf life, it will last only as long as the carrier oil.
To get the most life out of essential oils, store them in dark bottles (not plastic) in a cool, dark place. Keep bottles tightly sealed when not in use.
An oil has gone rancid if:
Aroma has drastically changed
Oil has become cloudy
Oil has thickened
Note: non-therapeutic-grade essential oils will go rancid much quicker.
Clove oil is very potent and should always be diluted in a carrier solution, e.g., vegetable/carrier oils, milk, salt, vodka. Do not apply directly onto the skin and do not dilute with water unless specifically directed.
Recommended Dilution Quantities
100 drops = 5ml = 1 teaspoon (t)
0.25 %: 1 drop / 4 t of carrier
Sick children between 2 to 6 years.
1 %: 1 drop / 1 t of carrier
Children over age 6.
Elderly adults.
Massaging over a large area of the body.
People with poor immune systems, sensitive skin or other chronic health issues.
Pregnant women.
2%: 2 drops / 1 t of carrier
Normal use, i.e., healthy adults and most situations.
3%: 3 drops / 1 t of carrier
Local area application, i.e., specific body part/area of the body.
Specific treatments, e.g., muscle injury, respiratory congestion.
25%: 25 drops / 1 t of carrier
Anything between 3 to 25% may be warranted for severe pain, depending on health concern, age etc.
Carrier oils are the preferred carrier solution for most treatments. For best results use proper carrier oils, which you can buy wherever you buy essential oils.
Since purchasing carrier oils might not be practical while traveling it is good to know that any of the vegetable, nut or seed oils that are used for cooking can also be used. If doing so, use unprocessed oils such as those marked “organic” or “cold-pressed”, as refined oils will contain substances that may be harmful to the skin.
Worst case scenario, even regular old cooking-grade canola oil is better than nothing.
There are many different carrier oils with a variety of properties and scents. The following have been chosen for either their properties or because they will be commonly found whilst traveling.
Black Cumin Seed Oil: anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties, absorbs quickly into the skin and only leaves a slight residue, shelf life of 2 years.
Jojoba Oil: anti-inflammatory properties, absorbs well, shelf life of 2 to 3 years.
Olive Oil: thick and oily, but is very common and has about an 18 month shelf life, cold pressed virgin oil is best.
Sunflower Oil: commonly found, all purpose and affordable carrier oil, absorbs well into the skin and has a 12 month shelf life, unrefined is best.
Due to the wide variety of uses, instead of putting it in every diagnosis and treatment, the many uses are presented here in a general manner with a general method of use.
Any use of clove oil that strays from these general methods, or deserves a special mention, will be addressed in the appropriate sections of this book.
There are four basic ways to use essential oils: diffusing, inhalation, internal consumption and topical application.
A diffuser is a machine that disperses the oil into the air. Travel diffusers are available.
If you do not have a diffuser you could put a few drops onto a cotton ball (or similar, e.g., gauze) and put it on the air ducts, or perhaps put it in a spray bottle and spray it around the room. These methods won’t be as effective as a proper diffuser, but are still good.
Diffusing is also a great way to disinfect a room and neutralize odors with a pleasant, spicy aroma, as well as getting the many general benefits of clove oil such as (but not limited to):
Aphrodisiac.
Boost the immune system.
Bring courage.
Improve memory.
Mental stimulant.
Reduce fever.
Relaxing.
Relieve gastrointestinal problems, headaches, nausea, respiratory problems etc.
Sleep-inducing.
Stimulates dreams.
There are 2 basic ways to inhale clove oil. Both methods should only be used for specific reasons, e.g., when you are sick.
Direct Inhalation:
You can inhale oils directly from the bottle, or rub a few drops into your hands then cup your hands over your nose and breathe in.
This is not a preferred method but is very easy to employ when traveling. Be sure only to do it with diluted oil and go easy because clove oil is strong.
Steam Inhalation:
When steam and essential oils are combined they form a very potent way to help treat some ailments, especially anything to do with the respiratory system.
Caution: this type of treatment should not be used by anybody suffering from asthma.
Ø Pour hot water into a bowl and then add 3 drops of the diluted oil. Shut your eyes and place your head about 30 cm (12 inches) above the bowl and cover your head with a towel to form a tent over the bowl. The sides should be totally closed.
Ø Breathe deeply through your nose for a couple of minutes.
Ø When you need to, raise the towel to let fresh air in and breath through your mouth. Resume the treatment when you are ready.
Ø Anytime you feel it is too much, stop the treatment.
Diluted clove oil is safe to ingest in small amounts. It can be done for general well-being (e.g., boosting the immune system), or for a specific reason, e.g., aid digestion issues.
Adding a drop or two to a glass of water or in tea every other day will take care of the need for any other general multivitamin.
Add 1 to 2 drops to 50 ml of water and use as you would normal mouthwash.
There are a number of ways clove oil can be used in topical application.
Bathing:
Adding clove oil to a bath is a good way to get all the general benefits from diffusing, as well as being a fantastically relaxing and soothing experience.
For a healthy adult, use 3 to 4 drops of diluted clove oil. Put it in after the bath tub has been completely filled.
The oil must be diluted before adding it to the bath tub. Just adding 1 drop of clove oil directly to the water is not a good idea. Oil does not mix with water, so it will just float to the top and may irritate the skin. Use any of the normal dilution carriers, bath salts (preferred) or a cap of shampoo.
Direct Application:
Applying clove oil directly onto an affected area up to 3 times a day will prevent infections and also treat existing infections. It can also ease pain or discomfort and promote healing.
This includes, but is not limited to:
Aches and pains. Use a compress or massage it in if appropriate.
Dental pain, e.g., toothache.
Fungal infections, e.g., athlete’s foot, ringworm, cold sores.
Skin irritations, e.g., acne, eczema, rashes, dry skin.
Wounds, e.g., cuts, burns, insect bites and stings.
Compresses:
Hot compresses can be used to treat boils, menstrual cramps, muscle pain, old injuries, rheumatic pain (joints and/or connective tissue) and toothache.
Ø Soak a piece of material, e.g., folded small towel, in water as hot as you can stand without burning yourself.
Ø Wring it out.
Ø On the side that will be placed on the skin, put 3 or 4 drops of diluted clove oil.
Ø Place the compress on the affected area and cover it with plastic, e.g., cling wrap or a plastic bag.
Ø Place another towel on top to keep it in place.
Ø Once it cools to body temperature, replace it.
Cold compresses can be used for bruising, headaches, inflammation, fever, recent sprains and swelling. Make it in the same way as the hot compress but use cold water instead of hot.
Massage:
Clove oil can be used as a massage oil for general massage (maximum concentration of 1 % dilution) or for specific problems. It can also be useful for sore muscles (where massage is appropriate) as well as internal organs.
For internal organs, massage it over the area of the affected organ, e.g., rub on the stomach for digestive issues.
If massaging is not appropriate, the clove oil can still be placed with either direct application or a compress.
Reflexology:
The safest place to apply clove oil topically is to the bottom of the feet. In addition, you can place the oil on reflexology points which allows fast distribution to the corresponding internal organs via the blood stream. This can be helpful for systemic infections.
Except where specifically indicated, the right foot’s reflexology points are the same and a mirror the left’s.
Reflexology in itself can be a great alternative treatment for many things. It is not covered in detail in this book because it is a skill that must be studied in length. To learn more about reflexology please visitSurviveTravel.com/Reflexology.
Clove oil is not only useful for medical needs. Some other uses include:
Cleaning product: cleans metals and gives them a nice shine, is a natural disinfectant, and can also be used as hand sanitizer.
Insecticide: diffuse, make a spray, or add 1 undiluted drop to a cotton ball and place it in problem areas.
Insect repellant: dab or spray on clothing when outdoors.
Weed killer: make a spray, non-toxic to most domestic animals.
There are many medicinal plants, but this book only refers to a few of the more commonly found ones. Others are mentioned, but the main ones are garlic, ginger and tannin.
There are a few different ways to which this book refers when preparing plants:
Depending on the plant, you can eat it, or just chew on it for the juice and spit the pulp out.
Mash up the under-bark and shape it into a flat, pulpy mass. Add water if it is too dry. Apply it to the affected area, cover it (e.g., material, big leaf) and bind it in place.
Cut and crush the plant and put in a cup. Pour boiling water over it, give it a stir and then cover it. When cool enough, drink it. Depending on the plant, eat the ingredients after you finish drinking the tea.
If you cannot boil water, use cold water (half the amount) and leave it in the sun.
Aspirin is made from salicin. It has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties.
Find an aspen, poplar or willow tree. There are various kinds of each, so the pictures may not match.
Chew on strips or make a tea from the green under-bark, the outer-bark is not effective.
A poultice can be used topically.
Aspen tree, leaves and fruit
Poplar tree, leaves and fruit
Willow tree and leaves
Tannin has medicinal properties (e.g., analgesic, cure dysentery, promote healing) and can also be used to cure animal hides. Oak trees are best but any tree will work.
Boil tree bark (off the tree, not dead) for at least 12 hours and up to 3 days.
Add more water as it evaporates.
Garlic, Ginger, Honey and Lemon Tea
This tea gets a special mention because the ingredients are very common and it is a good natural remedy for when you have a cough, sore throat, feel a cold coming on etc. When you do not have all the ingredients, or even if you just have one, it can still help.
Eating 2 to 3 cloves of garlic a day (e.g., in cooking) is great for your immune system.
Cautions: may increase bleeding, use with caution if you have stomach or digestion problems.
Garlic is known to help with the following:
Bacterial infections and symptoms.
Blood pressure.
Blood sugar.
Fungal infections and symptoms.
Gastrointestinal infection and symptoms.
Hay-fever.
Immune system.
Liver function.
Respiratory infections and symptoms.
Stress and fatigue.
Tick bites (prevention).
Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and is widely used as an anti-nausea remedy.
Cautions: excess use may be harmful during pregnancy.
Ginger is known to help with the following:
Gastrointestinal infection and symptoms.
Nausea/Motion sickness/Morning Sickness.
Pain relief.
Respiratory infections and symptoms.
Honey has antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Honey (Raw/Unprocessed) is known to help with the following:
Asthma.
Cough.
Diabetic foot ulcers.
Diarrhea.
Hay-fever.
Lethargy.
Stomach ulcers.
Wound healing, including burns.
Lemon has anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties, i.e., increases urine output.
Lemon is known to help with the following:
Cold and flu.
Digestion.
Kidney stones.
Pain.
Scurvy (vitamin C deficiency).
Tinnitus (ringing in the ears).
Garlic, Ginger, Honey and Lemon Tea Sample Recipe
How much of each ingredient you put into the tea is up how sick you are vs. how much you can stand. Here is a sample recipe for a single cup. Eating the ingredients after your finish the tea is a good idea.
Ø 4 cloves of crushed garlic (peeled).
Ø Half a teaspoon of grated garlic.
Ø A few tablespoons of lemon juice.
Ø Raw honey to taste.
As a general rule, for any illness, unless instructed otherwise, rest and drink lots of water (preferably hot water) to flush your body of toxins and recharge your body.
If able, soak the affected part in hot water. An alternative for parts you cannot soak is to put something hot on it, e.g., brick, hot water bottle, rock.
Placebo’s can be very powerful. Never tell a patient there is nothing that can be done. Doing something that has no proven benefit (and has no harmful effect) is better than doing nothing.
No matter how dire a situation, you must keep up the will to survive. Don't just lie down to die. Keep going, do the best with what you have, find the humor in the situation and keep up faith!
The moment you give up is the moment you have died.