What’s inside a naturopath’s first-aid travel bag?
When it comes to family holidays or simply heading away for the weekend, there are a few natural remedies I never leave home without.
More and more families are reaching for natural and holistic health support for their children in the event of coughs, colds, belly aches and grazed knees.
To help you put together your own natural family first aid kit, I’m sharing some of my favourite remedies!
The natural remedies travel kit items I never leave home without:
Probiotics: There are many different types of probiotics, and they all have different benefits, but I find SB (Saccharomyces boulardii) to be the best cover-all for tummy troubles. SB is a yeast, not to be confused with the common baker’s yeast and it acts as a protector of the intestinal lining. Because of that, it’s not only helpful for the prevention and treatment of diarrhea, both in adults and in children, but also useful for nausea and general stomach upsets. Studies have shown SB can also reduce the side effects of antibiotics, and help with repopulating healthy gut bacteria following antibiotic treatment. Probiotics are found in capsule and powder forms.
Vitamin D: Vitamin D supports the immune system, and may be helpful for anyone fighting off colds and flu. Our bodies produce Vitamin D with exposure to direct sunlight, and just a few minutes a day is enough for most children, but Vitamin D deficiency remains high in Australia. Vitamin D supplements are available in both capsule and liquid or spray forms.
Garlic Ear Drops: Ear infections are a common problem for young children, especially those who are immunocompromised. So I always have a bottle of mullein and garlic ear drops ready for when earaches strike. Being all natural, these herbal eardrops are safe for children, and work quickly to provide comfort.
Saline Nasal Spray: A saline solution is a combination of water and salt commonly used to clean the nasal passages of children. Saline nasal spray is useful for runny noses, before long flights, and helping to keep little noses clean before children are able to blow their own nose.
Charcoal: Activated charcoal is a fine black powder. It’s messy and it looks a little daunting when added to drinks! But, it is an effective remedy for your natural remedy kit and suitable for the whole family. Charcoal can be used to absorb toxins and move bacteria more quickly through the bowel, such as with food poisoning. It’s also an effective hangover remedy in-case the grownups are having a little too much fun on holiday!
Multivitamins: Parents often come to me seeking good quality vitamins for children, especially targeting immune support, colds and flu. ArmaForce by Bioceuticals is one of my favourite winter must haves! Available in both Junior and Adult formulations, Armaforce contains Vitamin A, Vitamin C, elderberry, quercetin and echinacea, which have all been traditionally used for general immune support and the symptomatic relief of colds.
Arnica: Arnica is another medicinal plant, commonly used in both ointment and homeopathic forms. It’s used for sprains, bruises and swelling in both children and adults, making it a must for families with active children (and kids at heart!).
Homeopathics: Homeopathics are a popular choice for families looking for natural remedies for children. I particularly like Cocculus indicus for motion sickness on long drives or boat rides. You might also opt for a Homeopathic first aid kit with a mix of homeopathics ideal for the whole family and a range of conditions, from anxiety to pain relief.
Iberogast: A must in every natural remedy kit, Iberogast contains a combination of herbs traditionally used for stomach pain, nausea, bloating and indigestion.