Not being a man myself, I didn't feel it was right for me to discuss men's spiritual issues. So, I thought we'd cover the practical. Warm weather brings work projects. With new projects come the inevitable cuts and bruises, insect stings and other minor injuries. So, I dedicate this article to the 'Tim Allen' in every man! Arr! Arr! Arr!
Sunburn Treatment
1 ounce of St. John's Wort
Olive Oil
Put the Wort into a jar and put in Olive oil until it's about twice the height of the herb. Let it soak for 30 days, shaking once a day. Strain and keep on hand. This also works great on bruises and burns. Warning, don't go out into the sun with the oil on. It can create sun sensitivity and will actually act more as a baste for a good cooking than it will for protection!
Poison Ivy Remedy
It will do you well to have some of this tea on hand. I generally gather as much of this plant as I can and put it in a pot with enough water to cover it and simmer until the water turns green. This can then be cooled and kept on hand in the fridge for short periods, or poured into ice cube trays (thank you Jacki!) and frozen for future use.
You can also simmer this in olive oil until the oil turns green and the fresh herb turns brown. Skim out the herb and save the oil (add some Jojoba or Vitamin E to help preserve it). To make this into a salve, add shredded beeswax to the warm oil. This is also good for fungal infections.
Bruise Soak
Wormwood
Rye Whiskey
Mix about an ounce of herb to a bottle of whiskey. Soak for two weeks, shaking daily then strain. Soak bruised area with this mix as needed.
Instant Burn Relief
If you are about to go out and do a little welding or soldering, bring this simple remedy with you- a potato. If you get a minor burn, slice it in half and apply the interior side to the burn. It will relieve the burn instantly. You can keep the other side in the fridge and alternate as needed. Occasionally blow three times on the burn from the site to away from your skin in a smooth movement and visualize the burn travelling away from you. Aloe Vera and the St. John's Wort oil will also help alleviate the pain.
Drawing Plaster for Stings
1 egg
Flour
Milk
Make a thick paste of these over a low flame and let cool enough to handle. Apply it to the sting or sliver and allow to dry. Remove the plaster and repeat as needed. This will draw out the offending element.
Strained Muscle Soak
Lobelia
Vodka
Follow the same rules as you would for the bruise soak. Apply onto muscle with a towel or paper towel and let sit for 15 minutes.
