Essential Oils: Natures First Aid

Over the years I have moved into the low tox direction with most cleaning and health items in both my kitchen pantry and my bathroom cabinet, with particular attention to my first aid kit, where I have combined a variety of natural balms, lotions and essential oils to create my own remedy kit which can be used on a variety of ailments.

Essential oils and herbal ointments have been used medicinally by many cultures around the world for centuries. Their uses varied between cultures from religious purposes, perfumes and for healing the sick. The essential oil “compounds or essence” has been extracted from plants and used in a variety of ways to holistically treat ailments.

It is difficult to pinpoint exactly when essential oils gained their recognition as effective healing agents, but eventually the knowledge of essential oils spread around the globe, and are still being widely used today as an alternative healing remedy, and with great reasoning.

Natural first aid is a great alternative to use for your family’s health and wellbeing, it is easy to access and with a little preparation you can obtain all the correct essentials to add to your already existing first aid kits.

It is important to add that you must be mindful when using natural products, as these are made in a high concentrated dose, they do have safety warnings which should be adhered to and they should all be used as per their individual directions and always kept out of reach of children, just like any other medicinal products.

Having said that, they are amazing products when used correctly, and because you only need to use a little at a time, they generally last a long time, especially when stored correctly as they also have a great shelf life. You most likely have some of these already in the bathroom cabinet.

Here are some of our favourite essentials to have on hand for those emergencies, and honestly there is so many more I could add to this list.

Side note:

Storage – all essential oils and balms should be stored in a cool dry place to keep their longevity and potent properties working adequately.

Tea Tree Essential Oil

This amazing essential oil is easily recognised by its fresh, earthy, and clean aroma. Tea tree oil is traditionally associated for its powerful anti-fungal, antibacterial, decongestant and healing properties. With its best-known feature being a remedy for healing wounds and easing inflammation.

Directions for topical use: must be diluted in carrier oil or in water

It can be used simply by adding a few drops to water 1-2% dilution to be used for cleaning wounds. Apply the diluted solution directly to area to reduce symptoms of insect bites, blisters, eczema, chickenpox, cold sores, sunburn, athlete’s foot, any sort of fungal infection and even acne.
This essential oil has helped with dandruff and other hair complaints, along with Tea Tree oil being one of the best essential oils for head lice.
When diffused it is amazing at boosting respiratory function by adding a few drops to hot water and inhale the steam or diffusing to provide relief for sinusitis, asthma, bronchitis, or whooping cough.

Tea Tree Essential Oil Safety

Not to be taken internally.
Essential oils should be kept out of reach of children and pets.
Tea tree essential oil has been seen to be particularly harmful to pets and because of this, we advise against using it around animals.
Avoid using tea tree essential oil during pregnancy and whilst breastfeeding.
To avoid possible skin sensitivity, dilute prior to topical application.

Price

This really varies on the brand, but generally you could get a good quality tea tree oil between $10-$25 depending on the brand and size. Try to always get 100% essential oil as you know it has not been diluted with water.

Lavender Essential Oil

Lavender is one of the world most recognised fragrances, its sweet, floral, and herbaceous scent has been found in a variety of cosmetic and skin care products for centuries. off course lavender essential oil has been also used in many aromatherapy applications. Lavender oil is well known for its calming properties especially when used for calming anxiety, an overactive mind or restlessness when sleeping.

Lavender Essential Oil directions for topical use

Generally, this oil can be placed directly on to skin for bites and stings, and even to the temples for headaches, yet if you have sensitive skin or applying to a child ensure to dilute the oil in a carrier oil (e.g. almond, coconut or even olive oil). Recommended to dilute at 1-2% oil in a carrier oil.

For either a topical or calming treatment

Soothes insect bites and stings,
Relieves headaches and migraines when place directly to the temples.
Used in the treatment for dry, sensitive, and irritated skin, acne, as well as other skin complaints such as eczema, psoriasis, scarring and wrinkles.
Application direct to the skin I would recommend a 1-2% dilution in a carrier oil.
Because of its sedative properties, lavender essential oil is known to be one of the best essential oils for sleep and being beneficial for relaxing, calming, helping to relieve feelings of stress, anxiety, irritability, and nervous tension. From a health perspective, the benefits of Lavender Oil have been seen when treating respiratory related problems.

Lavender Essential Oil Safety

Lavender essential oil is not to be taken internally.

Avoid using Lavender Essential Oil during pregnancy and whilst breastfeeding. unless recommended by health practitioner.

To avoid possible skin sensitivity, dilute prior to topical application.

Price

$12 – $45, pricing depends on brand, lavender variety, quality and size

Arnica Balm or Capsules

Arnica originates from a herb that is most commonly grown in Central Europe, North America and Siberia. It is the flowers of the plant that are most valuable, and these flowers are used for medicinal purposes.

The main purpose of Arnica is to treat pain and swelling related afflictions. It is commonly applied to the skin to relieve pain associated with bruises and sprains but can also provide relief for insect bites and arthritis.

Arnica can be used as either a balm or a capsule, sometimes I will combine both to promote quicker healing of sprains and bruising.

Arnica directions for topical use

Apply directly to skin 2 or 3 times a day to sprained or bruised area of body. Wash hands after each application.

I like to cover the area with some plastic film or a cut up piece of plastic, to keep the balm on the affected area, this is also helpful if you are using a balm as it can also be very sticky, arnica cream does not have the same stickiness as the balm, so keep this in mind when purchasing.

A compress can be made by soaking a pad in an arnica infusion and applying to the affected area, this can be left on for several hours at a time or overnight.

Arnica directions for tablets

Follow recommended daily intake on label.

Arnica safety

Arnica should only be applied to unbroken skin as it is known to promote blood circulation and may increase bleeding of wounds.
External use only, this product is not to be consumed internally.

Price

Arnica cream $ 15 – $30

Arnica tablets $17 – $40

Comfrey

Commonly known as ‘knitbone’, comfrey ointment has a special affinity with bone and tendon healing.

Good for bone pain and bone injuries like shin splints where the comfrey encourages cell regrowth in connected tissues and bones while breaking down red blood cells in bruising.

Excellent for deep tendon problems such as RSI (Repetitive Strain Injury) Relief for old sprains and strains, osteoarthrosis, and reoccurring muscle soreness.

Directions for topical use

Rub into affected area as frequently as required. Cover if needed – covering area with plastic will promote the comfrey balm to penetrate the affected area with more intensity.
A compress can be made by soaking comfrey leaves and applying the leaf directly to the affected area, this can be left on for several hours at a time.
Not recommended on broken skin.

Comfrey safety

External use only, this product is not to be consumed internally.
Not recommended on broken skin.
Not suitable for long term use.

Price

$13 – $40

Calendula

Calendula has antifungal, anti-inflammatory, and antibacterial properties which can make it useful in healing wounds, soothing eczema, dry skin, scalds, sunburn and relieving diaper rash.

Calendula has been used for centuries as an excellent soother and healing herb.

Calendula directions for topical use

Excellent for soothing minor cuts and scrapes, calming and soothing sensitive, dry, flaky, itchy, or fragile skin.
Also great for cracked heels, chapped lips.
To relieve diaper rash, you can try applying a small amount of calendula oil on its own or mixed with aloe vera on the affected area a few times per day.
A compress can be made by soaking a pad in a calendula infusion and applying to slow healing wounds or varicose ulcers.
Apply directly to affected area with clean fingers and reapply regularly for best results. Ensure to wash hands after use.

Calendula safety

Calendula balm is not to be taken internally.
Calendula is generally safe to use, but there are a few considerations to keep in mind. Avoid calendula if you’re allergic to plants in the Asteraceae/Compositae family.
Don’t use calendula if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.
Always talk to your doctor before using this oil to treat any condition that may require medical attention.

Price

$ 15 – $40

Aloe Vera

Aloe vera juice is a must have ingredient to have on hand, it has been used in many herbal and medicated ointments for centuries.

I would suggest growing an Aloe Vera plenty as an easy way to always have an abundance of Aloe Vera, these hardy plants are perfect to have on hand at home. You would simply remove a leaf, cut down the middle and remove the pulp which can be applied directly to the skin.

Yet alternatively there are many Aloe Vera gels and creams available on the market too, which can be added to your 1^st aid kits.

Aloe vera is renowned for its vast beneficial properties and has been used for treating skin complaints since ancient times. Its nourishing, anti-fungal and antibacterial properties sooth burns, sting, rashes and is Known to assist with symptoms of acne, dermatitis, and psoriasis just to mention a few.

Aloe Vera also has numerous health benefits when consumed internally (keeping in mind that you would need to source a consumable Aloe Vera product and not to consume a medical grade one). Aloe contains Minerals such as calcium, magnesium, zinc, chromium & selenium and vitamins A, B, C, E & folic acid.

Aloe Vera directions for topical use

Apply directly to skin as required for the treatment of burns, stings, rashes, and other skin irritations.
Powerful tool for cleaning wounds and providing pain relief.
When applied to wounds it has the ability to stop bleeding.
Cooling relief of sunburn.
When Aloe gel is added to hot water and the steam is Inhaled, this is a wonderful remedy for bronchial congestion.

Aloe Vara safety

Aloe vera is generally a very safe herb, it is soothing and mild when applied directly to the skin.

It has wonderful health properties when consumed internally, however you must only consume Aloe Vera which has been processed for human consumption.

If you are unsure of the Aloe Vera please only use externally.

Price

$10 – $50

Plant price approx $15 for a small plant, these multiply quickly and can be transferred to other gardens or pots easily, or pick a piece with roots attached from a friend’s garden and plant into a pot or your herb garden.

Eucalyptus Essential Oil

The refreshing, crisp and naturally decongesting essence of Eucalyptus Oil is incredibly versatile. The benefits of this essential oil are well-known when it comes to congestion related to colds and flus, treating minor burns, blisters, cuts, minor wounds, and skin infections.

It has also been said that various Eucalyptus Essential Oil benefits can help ease muscle and joint pain as well as symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and nerve pain.

Eucalyptus directions for Diffusion

When diffused it is amazing at boosting respiratory function by adding a few drops to hot water and inhale the steam or diffusing to provide relief for cold and flu symptoms.
Diffusing Eucalyptus Oils can also help ward off unwanted insects and germs, so it is the perfect essential oil to have around at any outdoor event.

Eucalyptus directions for topical use

Eucalyptus Radiata Oil has a stimulating effect and because of this, Eucalyptus Essential Oil is often used as a natural remedy for poor circulation.
For those wanting to use Eucalyptus Blue Gum Essential Oil topically, dilute your Eucalyptus Oil to a preferred carrier oil at a 2-4% dilution and apply as a skin serum or massage oil.

Eucalyptus safety

*Flammable Liquid
Not to be taken internally.
Essential oils should be kept out of reach of children and pets.
To avoid possible skin sensitivity, dilute prior to topical application.

Price

$10 – $50

Clove Bud Essential Oil

Clove essential oil carries a powerful spicy, woody aroma with a somewhat sweet undertone that is familiar in aromatherapy. Clove oil contains the active ingredient eugenol, which is a natural anaesthetic. It helps numb and reduce pain to ease a toothache. Eugenol also has natural anti-inflammatory properties. It may reduce swelling and irritation in the affected area.

Clove oil directions for topical use

It has been used as a natural treatment to treat toothache for centuries, it is especially good to have in your first aid kit for those times when you may not be able to get to a dentist for immediate attention.

Squeeze a few drops of clove oil with 1 teaspoon of coconut oil into a dish.
Soak your swab or cotton ball with the clove oil.
Gently swipe the swab or ball around the area that is bothering you.
Or place the cotton ball over the area.
Allow the oil sit for 5 to 10 minutes before it starts working.
Reapply every 2 to 3 hours for relief.

In addition, clove oil can also be used for other ailments, such as easing respiratory infections. In medicinal topical applications the benefits of clove oil have also been known to assist in the treatment of wounds, cuts and fungal infections such as athlete’s foot, I would always recommend diluting Clove Bud essential oil at a 0.5% – 1% maximum dilution.

Clove oil safety and side effects

Avoid swallowing Clove oil, when applying to a tooth ensure to use a cotton bud and apply directly to the effected area.

Clove oil is naturally unpleasant to taste.

Ingesting clove oil can lead to several side effects, including:

Breathing difficulties
Burning in your nose and throat
Upset stomach.
Diarrhea

Infants and children

Avoid giving undiluted clove oil to children. Children may swallow the oil by mistake, which could make them very ill. Be sure to mix the clove oil with natural carrier oil if you want to use this treatment on your child or infant.

Price

$20 – $50

Fractionated Coconut Oil

This oil is a liquid coconut oil, place some in a small, sterilised jar, this is a cheap and practical 1^st aid addition.

This anti-bacterial oil is cooling and very versatile in the 1^st aid kit, it can be used for a variety of health care treatments, use as a carrier oil, if you need to apply essential oils topically to the skin (you will need to dilute the essential oil first) such as tea tree, lavender, or eucalyptus.

Fractionated coconut oil directions for topical use

Coconut oil can be applied directly to the skin to ease the symptoms of thrush and fungal rashes.
It is a great carrier oil to use with your other essential oils.

Fractionated coconut oil safety

This oil comes with no warnings, it is safe to use on all age groups. Yet if you do have sensitive skin, it is always recommended to test a small patch prior to using.

Price

$12 – $25

Citronella Essential Oil

I particularly love Citronella Java essential oil, it is regarded as being a higher quality oil, compared to the common citronella oil. However, if you can only get your hands on regular citronella, this will work just as effectively.

Citronella has many antiseptic properties along with aiding to ease colds, headaches, fevers, anxiety, and light headedness when diffused. I actually love to keep this oil handy for when in the outdoors, it is a fabulous mosquito and bug deterrent.

Citronella directions for topical use

Soothe muscle spasms and menstrual related cramping when diluted in a carrier oil.
Citronella oil can be diluted and applied to the skin as an insect repellent or massage oil. We recommend a 2-3% dilution for topical application and a 0.5% – 1% dilution for facial application.

Citronella directions for diffusion

Diffusing citronella oil is also a great way to ward off insects on those warm summer evenings, add 5 -10 drops into an oil burner.

Citronella essential oil safety

*Flammable Liquid
Citronella essential oil is not to be taken internally.
Essential oils should be kept out of reach of children and pets.
Avoid using citronella essential oil during pregnancy and whilst breastfeeding.
To avoid possible skin sensitivity, dilute with a carrier oil prior to topical application.

Price

$10 – $20

Peppermint Essential Oil

Is a refreshing, crisp and a beautifully balanced essence.

This essential oils can sometimes be forgotten about when it comes to its useful properties. Peppermint Essential oil is known for its soothing and calming abilities. These benefits are also good for helping combat mental exhaustion whilst promoting focus and attentiveness.

It is amazing for warding off insects, especially when combined with citronella, the powerful menthol content within peppermint oil makes it an effective repellent for insects, spiders, wasps, bees, mosquitoes, mice and other household rodents.

Peppermint Essential Oil directions for topical use

This oil is a great antiseptic making it an essential oil for cuts, small wounds, abrasions, and insect bites, when applied to mosquito bites it is known to stop the irritating ‘itch’.
Add a few drops to your carrier oil for massage or placed into a glass roller bottle to boost mental awareness, dilute at a 1 -2% concentration.

Diffusion

When diffused and inhaled peppermint oil has been seen to ease headaches, migraines, hay fever and sinus congestion as well as common cold and flu symptoms.
The energising and invigorating properties within peppermint oil makes it the perfect essential oil to have diffusing in any office or study space.

Peppermint Essential Oil Safety

Peppermint essential oil is not to be taken internally.
Essential oils should be kept out of reach of children and pets.
Avoid using Peppermint essential oil during pregnancy and whilst breastfeeding, unless recommended by health practitioner.
To avoid possible skin sensitivity, dilute prior to topical application.
It is also important to know that Peppermint Essential Oil is known to be toxic to dogs and pets, you should therefore avoid using it pets.

Price

$12 – $40

CREATE YOUR OWN REMEDY BLENDS

Mix your essential oil of choice together with a carrier oil such as almond oil or fractionated coconut oil in small glass jars to create your favourite home remedies.

We like to use roller bottles of lavender & almond oil to keep in the car or my bag for bites or to ease headaches.

&

Spray bottles of aloe vera, rose water, almond oil and lemon myrtle oil in the fridge to ease sunburn, a beautiful relief on a hot summers day.

DIY bug spray

Every summer I make my own bug spray, I usually have a few of these around in the house and car, you can buy some 100ml glass spray bottles, or even save and reuse bottles that you may have had some cosmetics in (just rinse out bottle with boiling water and allow to air dry)

What you need:

1 x 100ml glass spray bottle

50ml witch hazel

5 drops Tea Tree oil

10 drops Citronella oil

5 drops Peppermint oil

5 drops Lemon grass oil

Shake, and use right away,

Alternatively, you can use all the essential oils and mix into a moisturising cream or Shae butter if you prefer to have a balm. (Just leave out the witch hazel)
If you would prefer to make it a more pet friendly bug spray, leave out the Peppermint & Tea Tree essential oils.

DIY headache roller

What you need:

1 x 10 ml glass roller bottle

5 drops Lavender oil

Carrier oil like almond oil, fill the bottle.

Shake and use. These are great to use when they are cold, so maybe place 1 in the fridge.

You can make several of these, with a blend of oils or you could make a Tea Tree roller to add to your 1^st aid kit, the options are endless.

Whether you are adding these balms and oils to an existing 1^st aid kit, or you are making one up from scratch having the right equipment on hand for small emergencies or injuries can be reassuring, below are a few items I keep in my own 1^st aid kit.

Create Your Own 1st Aid Kit

1^st aid essentials in my kit include

Patch all-natural band aids (off course you can use another brand, but I love PATCH)

PATCH have pioneered the world’s first eco, natural bamboo wound care.

Butterfly strips

These are great to hold large wounds together, especially if you may. Need stitches and you are some distance away from medical assistance.

Bandages at least 3 different one in my kit

1 x wide

1 x smaller heavyweight. This style of bandage is also suitable for snake and spider bites.

1 x Triangular Bandage, designed to provide added patient comfort.

Swabs and organic cotton buds & pads

A must have for cleaning wounds and applying antiseptic solutions.

Non-stick gauze

For placing over larger wounds prior to wrapping.

Scissors and tweezers
Saline solution

Removing dust or particles from eyes or cleaning wounds.

Gloves

Ensuring safe and hygienic first aid practices

Natural Therapies Safety Notes

Skin patch test before use is recommended. Cease use if reaction occurs to this product, wash area with fresh water.
A critical reminder Essential oils are highly concentrated, they have the ability to cause serious harm if ingested without the necessary expertise required – for this reason, ingestion of essential oils is NOT recommended for humans or animals.
Keep out of reach of children and pets.
Always seek medical treatment for serious injuries
Call medical help for life threatening injuries.

Australian Emergency Contact Information

Phone number 000 for Australian Police/ Ambulance/ Fire department

https://www.triplezero.gov.au

bottom line

Creating your own natural remedy kit can be easily achieved with a little preparation, by collecting some essentials which you can combine into your already existing first aid kit.

Caring for your family’s health can be done using a holistic approach with the use of essential oils and natural balms and lotions which are traditionally associated for their powerful healing properties of numerous ailments. Whether it’s cold & flu symptoms, bruises or sprains, nature has you covered for what ever pops up.

A big reminder that essential oils are highly concentrated, powerful oils and can cause serious harm if ingested, they are for external use only, and should be kept out of reach from children and animals.

Our favourite brands

Young Living

AWO – Australian Wholesale Oils

Natio

Patch

If you are seriously injured or ill, you MUST seek medical assistance in an emergency, by calling triple zero (OOO).

https://www.triplezero.gov.au

Always remember getting medical help quickly for medical emergencies can save lives.

We try to ensure that all information is accurate, but do not assume any liabilities or errors from the user.

The entire contents of this website are based upon the opinion of the author, which has been researched through a variety of integrated health modalities.

The information on this website is not intended to replace the relationship with a qualified health care professional and is not intended as medical advice. The articles are intended as a sharing of knowledge and information from the research and experience which has come from a variety of health practitioners in their individual fields.

Kin daily, encourages you to make your own health care decisions based upon your personal health journey with the guidance of a qualified health care practitioner.