Natural alternatives to mass meds.(Goodnews: essential natural health news)(Brief Article)

Each month, Amber D. Ackerson, ND, informs you about complementary and alternative choices to mass-produced over-the-counter (OTC) drugs.

 
Natural Alternatives to Mass Meds 
 
CONDITION                     OTC DRUG 
 
Bee and        American Anesthetic Topical First 
wasp stings    Aid Ointment, Num-Zit (benzocaine), 
(without       Bactine, Anusol, Anusol-HC (corti- 
allergy)       costeroid creams) 
Insect         Deet-containing insect repellent 
repellents     creams, lotions, and sprays 
Bumps and      Orally: Ibuprofen, aspirin. Topically: 
bruises        Benzocaine, lidocaine 
Minor cuts     Antibiotic creams: Myciguent 
and scrapes    (neomycin), Baciguent (bacitracin), 
               and Neosporin, Polysporin (combi- 
               nations of the two with polymyxin B) 
 
CONDITION                            ALTERNATIVE 
 
Bee and        If a stinger remains in the skin, remove it immediately. 
wasp stings    Apply SSSSting Stop Soothing Gel w/Citronella (Boericke 
(without       & Tafel Gels/Cream) topically. Orally, use the 
allergy)       homeopathic remedy Apis (Boiron). Take one dose as soon 
               as possible after the sting, and repeat ...