Burns
Fortunately, most kitchen mishaps are first-degree burns, which means they affect only the top layer of skin, with mild irritation and redness.
A deeper, second-degree burns cause swelling and blisters. Both, if smaller than the palm of your hand, can be treated by quickly immersing the burn in ice-cold water for 5–10 minutes. Third-degree burns damage tissue and nerves and require immediate medical attention. Keep herbs handy so you can quickly concoct a remedy when small disasters strike including sunburn.
CAUTION: While ice water can help calm a burn, never apply ice directly to the injured area; it can injure tissue.
BURNS HEALING HERBS
Aloe • Calendula • Comfrey • German chamomile • Gotu kola • Green tea • Lavender • Plantain • St. John’s wort • Witch hazel.
LAVENDER BURNS GEL
Biologists say lavender is the best herbal remedy for burns, helping to soothe, heal, and prevent scarring. This simple burn gel is excellent for everyday kitchen burns, sunburn, and even severe burns once healing has set in.
Several applications
WHAT YOU’LL NEED: ¼ cup aloe vera gel 20–40 drops lavender essential oil
WHAT YOU’LL DO:
1. Place the aloe vera gel in a small glass jar.
2. Add the essential oil, cap the jar, and shake the mixture vigorously until well blended.
3. With clean fingers, cover the burned area.
4. Apply frequently as the burn heals.
ALTERNATIVE: You can also apply lavender essential oil directly to burns (lavender and tea tree are the only essential oils that do not have to be diluted); however, it is important to do so only after all heat has left the area.
ALTERNATIVE: Once the burn has begun to heal, use a mixture of 1 teaspoon freshly chopped gotu kola and 1 teaspoon aloe vera gel to help prevent scarring.
ORIGINS: Sometimes called “the fountain of life,” the herb gotu kola is known for strengthening skin as it heals and preventing scarring. It is also legendary in traditional Chinese medicine for its powers of longevity. One Chinese herbalist is said to have lived 200 years because of taking the herb.
ST. JOHN’S WORT PAIN RELIEF OIL
A remedy for sun burns begin as you pluck the cheery yellow St. John’s wort buds from your garden or a field in June or July.
Several applications
WHAT YOU’LL NEED: A jar’s worth of fresh flower buds, collected before they are fully open Olive oil to fill the jar
WHAT YOU’LL DO:
1. Fill a medium jar with the plants.
2. Cover the plants fully with olive oil and secure the jar’s lid tightly.
3. Place the jar in the sun for about 3 weeks, shaking it often. (You’ll notice the oil turning blood-red as the plant oils are released from the petals’ tiny, dark-colored glands.)
4. Strain the oil from the plant mix and store it in a tightly capped container in a dark cupboard. Don’t forget to label it.
5. Use it topically for sunburn, as well as for muscle and joint aches.
CAUTION: This recipe is for topical application. Do not take internally without consulting a doctor, as it may interact with prescriptions.
OTHER: Raw honey is another excellent remedy. Researchers found that applying honey to a burn helped arrest inflammation, hasten healing, and control infection.
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