In My… (Summer) Medicine Cabinet
In the same way that my wardrobe changes with the seasons, my medicine cabinet does as well. In the summer months, we seem to have an array of needs, from repelling bugs, to soothing gardening hands, to easing aching muscles from too much exercise.
I believe in using toxin-free products as much as possible, and I like to seek out alternative resources for common issues.
Here’s what’s in my summer medicine chest*.
1. Poison Ivy Bar
By All Terrain, this soap has a carry case, perfect for hiking trips down the Appalachian Trail. Containing tree tea oil, neem and oats, use this for soothing and cleansing poisons.
2. TeaTree antiseptic cream
100% tea tree helps soothe and clean skin irritations, cuts, scrapes and scratches. Got kids?
3. Essential Oils
I use dōTERRA essential oils year round for a multitude of purposes, and these are my summer favorites. Lavender is wonderful for calming down at night; I add it to my shower or tub. Lemongrass helps to ward off bugs naturally, and peppermint freshens breath and soothes the stomach, (ice cream cone, anyone?) Wild orange smells like a bright summer day. Dab it on your wrists.
4. Algae Omega
Sourced from algae, this is a vegan friendly Omega 3 supplement, to cool inflammation.
5. X Clear
Mmade with xylitol, a natural sweetener, that is said to help with sinus relief, and clearing nasal passages.
6. Sunscreen
There are safe sunscreens and there are toxic ones, and these two fall into the former category—By Badger and Albrey.
7. OceanSpray
A saline nasal spray that makes you feel like you just dove through a wave. Seriously. It gently cleanses seasonal allergens out of nasal passages.
8. Milk Thistle
Had too many margaritas last night? Nurture your liver today with some milk thistle herb.
9. Rescue Remedy
By Bach Flower Essences, I keep this on hand at all times for all kinds of emergencies. I add it to my dogs water bowl during a thunder storm, or under my tongue when I’m about to go on stage. Safe for kids, this is great for any stressful situation.
10. Banyon Tranquil Mind
This herbal combination is an Ayurvedic blend, calming the mind and easing anxiety. Wonderful for peaceful sleep while traveling.
11. NoGerms
A natural way to clean your hands. Keep this on hand at amusement parks!
12. Unpretroleum Jelly
A petroleum-free jelly lotion by Alba is healthy and protects against chafing. Soothes gardening hands, and even helps with diaper rash.
13. Buzz Away
A DEET-free, non toxic bug repellent. Made of lemongrass, peppermint, and citronella, and most importantly, this stuff works.
14. Deep Blue Rub
Also by dōTERRA, you will always find this by my bedside. Ran further than before? Worked out extra hard? This cream is loaded with powerful essential oils and relieves pain instantly.
15. Arnicare
A homeopathic remedy that uses arnica to treat pain, bruising, muscle aches, and swelling. Great after a day sailing rough waters.
16. Mosrepel
Made from citronella and geranoil, in an easy to wear bracelet. I stock these for my son (and his friends) in the summer. Fun colors too!
*All reviews are based on manufacturers claims or my personal experience. Please check for any contraindications with any medication you might be taking, consult your doctor prior to using herbs or alternative therapies. This is not a paid ad, nor is any money exchanged for recommending any products listed here.
