THE medicinal properties of plant oils and their ability to deal with a wide range of first aid situations make them a useful addition to the home medicine cabinet.
Because of their versatility it not necessary to maintain a wide selection of them.
Castor oil is one of the best emergency remedies for drawing out foreign bodies from wounds. It will draw up to 10mm deep, thoroughly removing all the nasties.
Use it as a poultice after stepping on a rusty nail, to draw an abscess or a boil, and any infection from any part of the body. It will also draw out the infection of tick bites (including any part of the head that was left behind) and splinters.
Lavender oil is a natural antibiotic and antiseptic, which promotes healing and prevents scarring. It is especially effective for the treatment of burns and scalds.
To treat burns, first apply ice-cold water for at least 10 minutes. Then immediately put two drops of neat lavender oil directly on to the affected area. Put five drops of the neat oil on a dry, cold compress and cover the burn, repeating as needed.
Tea tree oil is a powerful antiseptic and its anti-viral, anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties make it useful in treating a whole range of first aid situations.
Two or three drops in a bowl of warm water makes an excellent antiseptic wash for wounds, scratches, cuts and sores. It will also relieve the itchiness and irritation of mosquito stings and other insect bites.
Olive oil is useful for treating ears that tend to wax up or discharge, or ears that ache.
If there is an infection deep in the ear, you can mix a bit of castor oil with the olive oil to add drawing power. Warm a little of the oil by putting a small jar of it in a pan of warm water. Add three drops of the warmed oil to the affected ear and rub it in. Leave overnight, and clean with a bit of cotton wool the next morning.
It will not only clean the ears but will also provide pain relief.
For serious ear problems you should consult your family health practitioner.
Olive oil also acts as a soothing balm for all types of skin rashes, including those caused through an allergic reaction. A small amount of the warmed oil can be used to treat dry scalp dandruff. Simply massage well into the scalp and leave for about 15 minutes, then wash out.
Linseed oil makes an ideal massage oil for treating sprained, strained, twisted, stretched and torn ligaments. It will ease tight muscles and tone and improve elasticity in both tight and loose muscles.
It is an essential sports medicine oil for the home first aid chest, to treat sprained ankles and twisted knees that seem to be an inherent part of growing up and playing sport.