Now that it's spring, we're spending more time outdoors.  Thank Goodness!  

Despite that great news, we're sharing nature with our insect friends who are also more active.  In the event you or your children should have a run in with a bug and are wondering what to do without chemicals or toxic ingredients, there are several homeopathic remedies to consider.  Which one you use is dependent less on the fact that a bite or sting happened, and more on the sensation of the pain and quality of the injury.  

Here are a few homeopathic remedies you can keep in your medicine cabinet and their correspondent uses:

• Apis -- Use this for a sting where there is rapid swelling and the affected area feels warm to the touch.  The sting site also feels better from a cold application.  Think of Apis if hives are present or if Ledum does not reduce pain or swelling after 4 hours.
• Hypericum -- Use this for bites accompanied by sharp, shooting pains that often occur in sensitive areas, such as at the ends of fingers or toes
• Ledum -- Is the most commonly used for bites and stings from bees, mosquitoes, wasps, or spiders.  Unlike Apis, the affected area is cold to the touch and cold applications or immersion in cold water improves symptom.
• Staphysagria -- Use this when mosquito bites are very large and itchy, and may even create large welts.

In Austin, homeopathic remedies such as these can be found in several stores.  Contact me today for further information.  In the event of a medical emergency, please dial 9-1-1.

Enjoy the new excitement of spring and be careful for all the other friends in nature who will be joining you!  Keep these remedies close by.

Feel free to contact me for any questions.

In good health,
Noel

Disclaimer: This information is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended to treat, prevent, or cure any disease.  For any questions about your health, please consult your physician.