Soothe that sprain, heal that scrape, settle that queasy tummy: herbal salves, creams, oils and medicines can easily be added to your first aid kit. Dr. Terry Vanderheyden, a naturopathic doctor and registered herbalist in Barry’s Bay, Ontario, shares his expert tips on what to include if you want to make a herbal first aid kit.

Zinc chamomile

Zinc chamomile is used in a cream, the combination of anti-inflammatory zinc oxide and chamomile works to relieve and dry oozing, itching and weeping from poison ivy, poison oak and poison sumac.

Arnica oil

Arnica oil is a herbal oil that quickly works to reduce inflammation from bruises, sore muscles and sprains.

Calendula

Apply this antifungal, antiviral, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory herb to minor scrapes, rashes, burns and cuts to relieve irritation and speed the healing process. Formulations include Calendula oil, salve or cream. Bonus: safe to use on cats and dogs!

For more information on Calendula check out our Calendula Vitamin E cream blog. 

Willow bark 

A willow bark tincture reduces pain from headaches and muscle and joint pain, as well as mild fevers from cold or flu.

Ginger 

Quell nausea from motion sickness, seasickness as well as stomachaches with ginger in tincture or capsule form.

Red raspberry leaf 

Use red raspberry leaf tincture to treat diarrhea.

Have questions? Just visit our Great Questions Answered page to learn more or to submit a question.