Herbs can provide effective relief in a number of first-aid situations and can be easily used in the home situation rather than resorting to over-the-counter medicines.

Useful remedies to include in the first-aid kit are :

Rescue Remedy : This is a combination of Bach Flower remedies and has a calming effect on the emotions. It is very good for shock or nervous anticipation.

Marigold cream : More commonly referred to as Calendula, this is an antiseptic and is useful in all sorts of cuts and grazes to help prevent infection.

Comfrey ointment : This encourages and promotes faster wound healing by encouraging cell growth. It should only be used once the wound is clean, to prevent dirt being trapped in the skin.

Chickweed cream : This is good for drawing splinters, boils or for soothing burns and scalds.

Arnica cream or 6 x tablets: This is good for sprains or bruising or following an accident where there is shock. These can be taken together or apart.

Lavender oil : Two to three drops added to a carrier oil and massaged into the temples or neck can alleviate a headache or migraine. It is best used at the first sign of the headache. The same mixture can also help relieve minor burns, scalds and sunburn.

Tea Tree oil : This is antiseptic and antifungal and useful for preventing infections in cuts, grazes and cold sores.

Evening primrose oil : Apart from being a useful hangover cure, it also contains essential fatty acids which are vital in maintaining health tissues.

Distilled witch hazel : This is used for minor burns, soothing insect bites and stemming the flow of blood from wounds. It can also be useful for bruises and sprains, especially if made into an ice-cube and labeled accordingly in the freezer.