Bleeding, technically known as hemorrhaging, is the loss of blood from the circulatory system. When a wound bleeds, it can be scary. But what’s important is taking control immediately and calling for help if you need it. These solutions can also help.
WHEN TO SEE YOUR M.D.
Most black eyes are minor injuries and heal on their own in a few days; however, they may signify a more serious injury. Seek medical attention if vision problems develop.
BLEEDING FIRST AID
Lay the victim down and keep the person calm. Stress can elevate blood pressure and increase blood loss. Cover with a clean cloth and apply pressure directly unless there is a large object embedded in the wound. Maintain continuous pressure for 5 to 10 minutes. If the wound is large, squeeze the sides of the wound together firmly but gently. Raise the wounded area above the heart to help control bleeding unless a fracture is suspected.
To stop bleeding in the lower part of the body, press on the femoral artery against the pelvic bone. It helps to have the victim lay flat on their back as you place the heel of your hand on the crease of the thigh and groin. These two pressure points are to be used only if pressure and raising the limb don’t stop the bleeding. Discontinue the points once bleeding has ceased. They should not be pressed for longer than five minutes.
GOOD TO GROW!
Shred up some plantain leaves, mix with a bit of water, and apply topically as a poultice. It will draw out any remaining debris and soothe and protect the injured area.
GOOD TO KNOW!
One of the most common things that sends people to the emergency room in my town is trying to slice frozen bagels with a sharp knife. It’s important to thaw them first!
WHEN TO SEE YOUR M.D.
If an object is deeply embedded in the victim, seek medical attention. Bleeding occurring from the ear, mouth, or nose can be an indication of chest or head injury. Place the person in a semi-sitting position with the head leaning toward the injured side to facilitate the blood to drain and call for help. Internal bleeding is characterized by tenderness, pain, swelling, and discoloration of the urine, stool, vomit, and sputum. Don’t move the person if internal injuries are suspect until help has arrived.
WHEN TO SEE YOUR M.D.
Seek medical attention for the following wounds:
• Are so wide a butterfly bandage can’t hold them together.
• Are very deep.
• Affect a finger or joint.
• Are due to a broken bone or human or animal bite.
• Are due to a broken artery.
• Have caused the loss of function of a body part.
• Have a high risk of tetanus.
• Can’t be well cleaned but need to be.
If the object that caused the wound is still imbedded in it, attempting to remove it could increase bleeding. Cover the wound gently so that the object will not be forced in deeper and seek medical attention.
HERBS THAT STOP BLEEDING
The herb yarrow, a potent astringent, can seal up a wound so quickly that dirt could still be trapped in it, so you’ll need to clean if first with a good antiseptic soap. Use yarrow topically because it has an astringent or tightening effect.
GOOD TO KNOW!
Spider webs contain a coagulating substance that can be applied to cuts. Just make sure there is no spider in the web and that the web looks clean!
Thrifty Cures!
Apply slices of raw potato or cucumber on the area to cool inflammation and reduce pain and swelling. If you have them in your garden, you can collect some plantain leaves, shred them up with a bit of water, and apply them over the closed eye as a poultice.
Just grab a handful of the fresh plant’s leaves. Chop it up a bit and press into the wound to stop minor bleeding.
Nettles are a good herb to give people prone to excessive bleeding as they contain vitamin K, which aids in blood clotting. Take 2 to 4 capsules (internally) daily if needed.
An excellent Chinese patent medicine to stop bleeding is Yunnan Pai Yao (made from tienchi ginseng, which has strong blood-clotting properties). Take either topically and/or internally as directed on the packaging. Avoid internal use during pregnancy as its safety has not been studied for use during that time.
Thrifty Cures
Apply cayenne powder on the wound to encourage it to stop bleeding (note that this does sting). Just sprinkle some on a bleeding wound and apply pressure. Avoid contact with the eyes or mouth, which could burn. You can also take cayenne pepper powder internally in cases of bleeding. Take 1 teaspoon (2 g) in 1 cup (235 ml) of water.
This Bleeding First Aid article is taken from :
The Country Almanac of Home Remedies - Brigitte Mars
