AS gardens bloom, grow your own first aid kit this summer.
There are herbs and plants that can soothe bites and stings.
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If you don’t end up using them, they will still look blooming lovely.
BASIL: Grow a pot of basil on your windowsill for mosquito bites.
The leaves are packed with properties that act as a natural soother, taking away the itchiness.
Mash basil leaves with a little olive oil and rub on the lump.
The pungent smell of basil also keeps mozzies at bay, so stick a pot nearby if you are sitting out.
LAVENDER: This not only looks and smells gorgeous, it has also got a whole host of healing powers.
The strong smell confuses insects so keeps mosquitoes, ants, wasps and flies at bay.
The soothing scent has also been shown to help people sleep and to ease anxiety.
You can buy lavender essential oil or make your own by drying the flowers for a fortnight then placing in a jar covered with olive or jojoba oil.
After a week or two you can strain out the flowers to be left with a healing oil.
Also, try making bags from scraps of fabric to put lavender in.
MINT: Grow a patch of peppermint to have a natural indigestion aid in your garden.
To use it, all you need to do is put a handful of washed fresh leaves into a mug and pour over boiling water.
After five minutes you have a steaming cup of peppermint tea, perfect for soothing indigestion and bloating.
It can also help relieve stomach cramps and wind.
ALOE VERA: This chunky green houseplant not only looks great, but it also has amazing healing properties.
The sap in its leaves is used to soothe burns, scalds, sunburn, skin irritation and insect bites.
You can simply cut away a leaf, open it up and rub the sap directly on to the skin.
Buy a decent-sized plant for £6.50 from B&Q.
- All prices on page correct at time of going to press. Deals and offers subject to availability.
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What’s new?
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Top swap
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Little helper
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