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AROMATHERAPY AND FIRST AID - BURNS

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Penny Wing / 2010-03-06 12:17:16

Burns are classified into three degrees of severity: superficial (redness and swelling); Intermediate (swelling and blistering); Deep (numbness and charring) They can be caused by dry heat or moist heat (scalds) and are amongst the most common house hold injuries. Burns can also be caused by contact with chemicals, radiation or electricity.

For burns………..

Immediately hold the affected area under a cold tap for at least 10 minutes, then apply neat Lavender or Tea Tree to the burn. Reapply at least 3 times a day until the skin has healed.

For larger areas, especially if there is inflammation, apply an ice compress. Gently apply a lotion made from 8 to 10 drops each of Lavender and German Chamomile in a 50ml bottle of distilled water or Lavender water, shaken well. Shake the bottle before you use it every time.

Cover with a sterile gauze treated with a few drops of Lavender, Tea Tree or German Chamomile. Replace the dressing every few hours. Do not use adhesive plasters.

Cuts/Wounds

Small cuts, grazes and scratches are some of the most common injuries. If glass, rust, splinters or dirt are involved, special care should be taken to avoid secondary infection.

For cuts………….

Firstly, cleanse the area with water, removing any dirt or fragments. Apply a few drops of neat Lavender or Chamomile. Apply 2 or 3 times a day.

Cover larger injuries with a sterile gauze semi-saturated with Lavender or Tea Tree oil. If the wound is slow to heal or weeping, include 2 or 3 drops of Myrhh.

Lavender and Tea Tree are the best first aid remedies to have in your cupboard due to their excellent anti septic and wound healing properties. They do not sting the exposed raw skin even when applied neat and they encourage a rich flow of blood to the damaged area. They also prevent scarring. Tea Tree is especially effective for septic conditions and dirty wounds.   

Oil safety: Chamomile – can cause dermatitis in some people (use fewer drops if you have sensitive skin); Tea Tree – possible sensitisation in some people; Myrrh – do not use during pregnancy and do not use in high concentrations

Penny is a qualified aromatherapist, reflexologist, beauty therapist, holistic therapist, Reiki Master, Angel teacher and counsellor. If you wish to contact Penny please tel: 680 25 6266 or email via her website: www.pennywing.com