Long before there was a plaster aisle, there were these three. They still hold up for the small stuff — the burn from a pan handle, the graze, the bite you can't stop scratching.
Aloe vera — for burns
The one with the most evidence behind it, particularly for minor burns and sunburn, where several reviews suggest it may speed healing a little. Split a leaf lengthways, scrape out the clear gel, apply it cool. If you're buying a bottle instead, check aloe is at the top of the ingredients list rather than somewhere below the fragrance. Cool running water for ten minutes comes first, always — aloe is what you use afterwards.
Calendula — for grazes and sore skin
Marigold flowers, in cream or infused oil, with a traditional reputation for wound healing and a decent modern safety record. Best on grazes, chapped skin and the raw patches left by a cold. It's also gentle enough for most sensitive skin, which is why it turns up in nappy creams.
Plantain — for stings and bites
Not the banana; the broadleaf weed in every lawn and pavement crack, with ribbed oval leaves. The field version is the oldest first-aid trick there is: pick a clean leaf, chew or crush it, hold the pulp on the sting. It takes the heat out of nettle stings and insect bites remarkably quickly. Wash the leaf first if it's from anywhere sprayed or trafficked.
A simple calendula oil
Fill a clean jar loosely with dried calendula petals — dried, not fresh, or it will go mouldy. Cover completely with olive oil, seal, leave on a windowsill for two to three weeks, shaking when you remember. Strain into a dark bottle. It keeps about a year.
When to stop and see someone
Burns bigger than your palm, anything blistering badly, deep cuts, wounds that grow hot, red and swollen after a day or two, or any bite with spreading redness or trouble breathing. Home remedies are for small things, and knowing the line is the useful part.
Try this today: learn to identify plantain in your own garden or street. It's the one on this list you can't buy, and it's the one you'll want at the exact moment the shops aren't relevant.
Educational information only. Calendula is in the daisy family — if you have a plant allergy, patch test first. This article is for general educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Herbs and supplements may interact with medicines or may not be appropriate during pregnancy, breastfeeding or certain medical conditions. Consult a qualified healthcare professional when appropriate.