Home Remedies for Campers
Here are some home remedies I have used when far from home, on the road, or deep in the woods.
Aching Back – Fill a plastic zipper bag of crushed ice and apply to the sore area two or three time a day for no longer than 20 minutes. Alternate ice pack with a warm, moist heat such as a hot wash rag and do some gentle stretching.
Blisters – Wash the blister well with soap and water. Using either a sterile lancet (available at drug stores) or a sterilized sewing needle make a pinpoint at the base and edge of the blister. Allow the fluid to drain onto a gauze, apply anti-bacterial ointment, and cover the flattened blister with a clean bandage. NEVER, Never, never remove the outer bubble of skin.
Dry Skin – Limit showers to warm, not hot, 3-minutes and use a mild soap. Apply a moisturizer with little or no alcohol in its ingredient listing immediately after showers, while skin is still moist. (I’ve been known to use olive oil in a pinch.)
Sore Feet – Roll one of those little water bottles filled with cold water underfoot. If a particularly long day on your feet is planned, stick the bottles in the freezer. The ice acts as an anti-inflammatory. Follow with a soothing foot massage and your foot will be very happy.
Stomachaches – Try a small handful of dried blueberries and a sip of water. The blueberries contain an antibacterial compound and sticky substance that soothes the tummy.
Urinary Tract Infections – Drink a tonic of half a teaspoon of baking soda in 8-ounces of water to relieve the burning caused by high acid level in urine until you can get to a doctor. Be sure to increase your water intake also. (Note: not suggested for sodium restricted diets.)
Tension headaches – Massage a couple of drops of lavender oil on your temples to relax the muscles in your head and neck area. Continue the massage behind the ears and than up and down the neck. The circular motion of the massage and the scent of lavender do help. For additional assistance try a cool compress of lavender-scented water.
Tooth Plaque – Have a cup of tea after dinner. The natural tannis in tea helps prevent plaque from hardening into tartar.
Skin rash – Add Chamomile to bathwater or use in a soothing compress, this herb’s azulene does quiet skin irritated by too much sun, wind, poison ivy, or dry skin.
