The summer is now upon us which is often associated with fun, sun, and travel.  I am often asked about natural medicines and home remedies to have on hand during the summer and especially to bring on the trip for prevention or just in case someone gets sick.

•Digestive Upsets- Tummy bugs often come with the unpleasant symptoms of  vomiting, diarrhea, and fever. The most common concern amongst travelers is digestive complaints, such as traveler’s diarrhea.  My family and I travel to Mexico frequently and have found my arsenal of homeopathy and natural medicines to be invaluable.  In addition, to avoiding raw foods, salads, and ice, we take the following routinely  as a prevention;
Colloidal silver has natural antibiotic, antiviral properties
Probiotics: Healthy bacteria which are important for the gut
Arsenicum album: homeopathic remedy for traveler’s diarrhea.

Colds and Stuffed Nose- Catching a chill on a late summer afternoon following a day of sun and fun can lead to colds with runny noses and congestion.   When possible avoid extreme temperature changes of heat outside and cold air conditioning inside.
Onion slices on a plate by the bed help clear sinuses during the night.
Allium cepa: homeopathic remedy for early colds and watery runny noses
Vitamin C, Echinacea and other immune boosters can speed the healing process.

Flu Bug– Flu symptoms can also come in the summer months. Complete with body aches, fever, runny nose, and cough, the summer flu bug can put a damper on outdoor playtime.  In addition to rest, natural teas and broths consider taking the following:
Oscillococcinum is a homeopathic medicine to be taken at the first sign of a flu.
Colloidal Silver contains natural antibiotic, antiviral properties
Probiotics: Healthy bacteria which are important for the gut

Accidents: Bumps, bruises and other types of trauma are a fact of life. As a busy mother of boys, I know to expect complaints after a soccer match to a day at the beach.
Arnica montana (Arnica) is the homeopathic first line  treatment for injuries – big and small.   Arnica comes as chewable tablets to topical gels and creams. 

Bee Sting, Insect Bites, Tick Bites:  Summer is about being outside, and having to share the space with mother nature also means more insect stings and bites.   I use the following natural medicines:
Apis mellifica is a homeopathic medicine known for the effects of a bee's sting.
Ledum palustre is well-known as an acute homeopathic for bites, stings and wounds. Both are available in tablet and topical forms.
Tick Bite Balance II helps the body respond after a tick has bitten you (your child) or your animals. Following a tick bite, also consult your practitioner.