Medicinal Plants That Can Be Lifesavers in the Wild

Living out in the wild, there are all types of medicinal herbs and plants that can be used for a variety of purposes, as long as you know where to look and how to use them. There are many plants that you can use for more than just food; they have medicinal purposes that makes them exactly that – a fantastic source of medicine. They can be used to soothe many types of ailments. You can use these plants to treat everything from skin rash, fever and colds to migraines, arthritis, and diarrhea.

Here is a look at 10 medicinal plants that can be lifesavers in an emergency in the wild:

1. Althea: This is a highly beneficial medicinal plant that you will find in areas that have well-drained soil. This plant grows well in these areas in either shade or sun. You can use it to treat sore throats, ulcers, and skin irritations. Althea is analgesic, diuretic, antitussive, odontalgic, febrifuge, demulcent, highly emollient, and slightly laxative. You can use it externally to wash sores and wounds or make into a poultice or an emollient salve to soothe skin inflammations.
2. Catnip: This medicinal plant grows in many different types of soil. It is useful in the treatment of a fever, swelling, and symptoms of a cold. When applied topically, it can also help stop bleeding, which is good to know when you are in the wild and cut yourself in an accident. When infused, you can use it to relieve migraines, stomach aches, and gas. It also comes in handy in treating inflammation and swelling.
3. Witch hazel: It grows best in acidic, moist soil, and full sun, but it can grow almost anywhere. It is an excellent antiseptic and also helps in making bruises feel better. This is helpful in case you hurt yourself in the wild. Witch hazel can also be used to treat IBS and other problems that affect the bowel. The herb has extracts rich in antioxidants that also help in protecting the skin from sunburns.
4. Ginger: This root not only tastes really good, but it works very well for motion sickness, nausea, circulation, and migraines. It is also magnificent for blood clots. You can either eat it or add it to your tea. Ginger is easily available and one of the most useful plants to have.
5. Lady Fern: This medicinal plant is another one that you will find helpful when you are in the wild. You will find it in areas that have moist soil as that is where it grows well. It is useful in treating stings, burns, and minor cuts.
6. Tea tree oil: Tea tree is difficult to grow but if you find it, it will help in a variety of ways. It is a powerful antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral. These properties make it fabulous for treating infections, athlete’s foot, acne, and a wide range of other conditions.
7. Saw palmetto: This plant grows very well in moderately moist soil and full sun. It is highly effective in the treatment of bladder infections and stomach problems such as bronchitis and nausea. This is another useful plant to know when you are in the wild.
8. Rosemary: This plant grows well in different types of soil and climates. What makes it marvelous is that it does not require much attention when you grow it at home. Rosemary is effective in treating headaches and stomach upset. If you see this plant growing in the wild, remember the place in case any situation comes up where you need it. It can be used to relieve excruciating muscle pain and also act as an insecticide in the wild.
9. White willow: This plant grows best in areas that have moist soil. White willow is often referred to as the “mother of modern aspirin”. It is useful in the treatment of aches and pains, inflammation, and fever.
10. Goldenseal: This plant grows extremely well in areas that are shady and have rich, moist soil. You can use it to treat fungal and bladder infections. It is also highly effective in relieving sinus congestion. You can use it in teas as well.

Knowing which plants can use in the wild is incredibly helpful. There are many times when you do not have medicine to relieve pain or treat wounds, cuts, burns, and so forth. You can gain relief from pain and prevent infections. These medicinal plants are good to know since they can help in saving your life in an emergency when you are in the wild and on your own.