The Top 10 Medicinal Herbs to Stockpile for SHTF: A Prepper’s Guide to Natural Remedies

An assortment of medical books in my library…

As a prepper, it’s essential to be ready for any emergency, and part of that preparedness is having a solid plan for addressing potential health issues. In a SHTF scenario, access to medical care and pharmaceuticals might become limited or nonexistent, so knowing how to use natural remedies could prove invaluable. Here’s a list of the top 10 medicinal herbs to stockpile for SHTF situations, each with research-backed benefits to treat the most common health issues.

1. Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea) Echinacea is a popular herb known for its immune-boosting properties. It has been used traditionally to treat upper respiratory tract infections, such as the common cold and flu, and to promote wound healing. It’s thought that Echinacea works by stimulating the immune system, helping your body fight off infections more effectively.
2. Garlic (Allium sativum) Garlic has long been praised for its antimicrobial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. It can help combat infections, lower blood pressure, and improve heart health. In a SHTF scenario, garlic can be used as a natural antibiotic and to maintain overall wellness.
3. Ginger (Zingiber officinale) Ginger has a range of health benefits, thanks to its anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antibacterial properties. It’s highly effective in treating nausea and vomiting, making it a go-to remedy for motion sickness and morning sickness. Additionally, ginger can be used to alleviate digestive issues, such as indigestion and gas, and to reduce inflammation.
4. Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla) Chamomile is a gentle herb with calming and anti-inflammatory properties. It has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for anxiety, insomnia, and gastrointestinal disorders, including indigestion, diarrhea, and colic. Drinking chamomile tea or using a chamomile-infused oil can help soothe nerves and promote relaxation during stressful times.
5. Peppermint (Mentha x piperita) Peppermint is well-known for its digestive benefits. It can help relieve nausea, indigestion, gas, and bloating, making it an essential herb to have on hand for gastrointestinal issues. Additionally, peppermint has antimicrobial and antiviral properties, which can be beneficial in warding off illness.
6. Yarrow (Achillea millefolium) Yarrow is a potent herb with antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and astringent properties. It has been used traditionally to treat wounds, stop bleeding, and reduce fever. Yarrow can also help alleviate digestive issues and can be used as a natural remedy for menstrual cramps and other women’s health concerns.
7. Plantain (Plantago major) Plantain is an often-overlooked herb with powerful anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It can be used topically to treat skin wounds, insect bites, and stings, helping to reduce swelling and prevent infection. Additionally, plantain can be used to soothe respiratory issues like coughs and sore throats.
8. Elderberry (Sambucus nigra) Elderberries are rich in antioxidants and have long been used as a natural immune booster. They can help treat cold and flu symptoms, reduce inflammation, and alleviate respiratory issues. Elderberry syrup, lozenges, and teas are popular remedies for cold and flu season, and having them in your stockpile can help you stay healthy during a SHTF situation.
9. Calendula (Calendula officinalis) Calendula, also known as pot marigold, is a versatile herb with anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antibacterial properties. It is commonly used to treat a variety of skin conditions, including wounds, burns, rashes, and eczema. Calendula can be applied topically as a salve, oil, or poultice, or taken internally as a tea to help soothe inflammation and promote healing.
10. Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis) Goldenseal is a powerful herb containing berberine, which has antimicrobial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. It has been used traditionally to treat infections, wounds, and digestive issues. Goldenseal can be taken internally as a tincture, capsule, or tea, or applied topically as a poultice to help combat infections and support overall health.

When incorporating these herbs into your SHTF stockpile, it’s important to store them properly to ensure their potency and effectiveness. Keep dried herbs in airtight containers, away from direct sunlight, heat, and moisture. Tinctures, oils, and salves should also be stored in cool, dark places to maintain their shelf life.

Before using any herbal remedies, be sure to research proper dosages and potential interactions with other medications or medical conditions. If possible, consult with a healthcare professional or herbalist to ensure safe and effective use. In a SHTF scenario, having these medicinal herbs in your stockpile can be invaluable, helping you manage common health issues and maintain overall wellness when access to conventional medical care is limited.

My most recommended book “Where There Is No Doctor: A Village Health Care Handbook” by David Werner

“Where There Is No Doctor: A Village Health Care Handbook” by David Werner is a vital resource for individuals and communities with limited access to professional medical care. First published in 1970 and updated several times since then, the book has become an indispensable guide for those living in remote areas or facing a potential SHTF situation. In this review, we will delve into the content, organization, and overall usefulness of this acclaimed book.

Content: “Where There Is No Doctor” covers a broad range of topics related to health care, disease prevention, and treatment of common illnesses and injuries. It emphasizes the importance of community involvement and self-reliance in managing health concerns, particularly in areas where professional medical care is scarce or unavailable. Some of the key topics covered in the book include:

• Basic anatomy and physiology
• Hygiene and sanitation
• Nutrition and the importance of a balanced diet
• First aid and emergency care
• Recognizing and treating common illnesses, such as respiratory infections, diarrhea, and malaria
• Maternal and child health, including pregnancy, childbirth, and newborn care
• Dental care and oral hygiene
• Prevention and management of chronic illnesses, such as diabetes and hypertension
• Dealing with mental health issues and emotional well-being
• Understanding and using medications safely

Organization: “Where There Is No Doctor” is well-organized and easy to navigate, making it a user-friendly resource for readers with varying levels of medical knowledge. The book is divided into chapters focusing on specific topics, and each chapter is further broken down into sections and subsections that provide detailed information on symptoms, causes, treatments, and prevention strategies.

Illustrations and diagrams are used effectively throughout the book to explain complex concepts and demonstrate procedures, such as wound care or childbirth. The book also includes helpful appendices, such as a guide to common medications, a glossary of medical terms, and resources for further learning and training.

Overall Usefulness: “Where There Is No Doctor” is a valuable resource for anyone seeking to expand their knowledge of health care and disease prevention, particularly in situations where professional medical assistance may be limited or unavailable. Its comprehensive and practical approach makes it an essential tool for community health workers, preppers, and individuals living in remote areas.

The book is not a substitute for professional medical advice, but it provides valuable information on how to recognize, treat, and prevent common health issues, empowering readers to take control of their well-being and that of their communities. In addition, the book’s focus on prevention and health education makes it a powerful tool for promoting overall wellness and reducing the burden of illness.

In conclusion, “Where There Is No Doctor: A Village Health Care Handbook” by David Werner is a highly informative and practical guide for managing health in challenging circumstances. Its comprehensive content, clear organization, and emphasis on self-reliance make it an indispensable resource for those seeking to improve their knowledge of health care and disease prevention, particularly in remote or SHTF scenarios.

Here are some of my favorite prepping gear

Thank you for investing your time in this article, and I sincerely hope it has provided valuable insights to strengthen your survival preparedness. As a survivalist, I make use of a variety of tools and gear, many of which have proven to be indispensable in my journey. Here, I’ve compiled a list of some of my favorite survival gear, which I believe you will find beneficial as well.

These are affiliate links, meaning if you decide to use any of them, I’ll earn a commission at no additional cost to you. However, I assure you that these recommendations come from personal experience – these are the exact tools I trust, use, and confidently recommend to everyone, including my own family.

1. Long-Term Food Storage: ‘My Patriot Supply‘ is my top choice for emergency food supplies. Their selection caters to long-term storage needs, ensuring you’re always prepared.
2. Water Filter: Clean, safe drinking water is a priority in any situation. This water filter has served me well, and I trust it will for you too.
3. Versatile Cooking Solution: The Zoom Versa Cook Stove is a reliable, versatile cooking solution perfect for outdoor and survival scenarios.

I’ve compiled an extensive, frequently updated list of my top survival gear recommendations for your convenience. Equip yourself with the best and latest gear here.

Remember, true survival isn’t merely about making it through – it’s about effectively navigating and thriving in challenging circumstances. Equip yourself well, stay informed, and always be prepared.