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Page 93
| Heat Stroke |
| Symptoms can include headache, nausea, inability to concentrate, raised temperature without sweating, and a general feeling of being unwell. Heat stroke can be fatal in severe cases so do not delay in seeking medical help. Always wear a hat in hot climates, avoid lengthy exposure to the sun, and drink plenty of fluids (at least 2 quarts a day). |
| Mix 1 teaspoon of salt and 2 teaspoons of sugar in a cup of warm water and drink every twenty to thirty minutes until symptoms ease. Bathe the forehead with lavender oil in cold water if available or soak cloths in cold water and apply to all parts of the body. |
| Insect Repellents, Stings, and Bites (See p. 77) |
| Insect bites can lead to all sorts of unpleasant conditionsespecially as you get closer to the tropicsso the sensible thing is to avoid being bitten in the first place. Long socks can prevent sand fleas and mosquitoes from gaining hold; tuck trousers into socks when walking in sandy areas. Combine protective clothing with a light covering of an herbal insect repellent (see below). Alternatively, use the same mixture undiluted in pomander beads or decorative miniature scent bottles on a necklace to keep a slight whiff of oil around you to ward off bugs. |
| Lemongrass oil (Cymbopogon citratus) is ideal to repel insects and avoid those troublesome bites that can spoil a trip. Dilute the oil to no more than 5 percent concentration (20 drops in a tablespoon of almond oil) and cover areas of exposed skin. A plastic spray bottle can be used for brief periods instead but will tend to clog up with prolonged use; instead use a small hand spray containing 20 drops of oil in 1 cup of water and spray all exposed areas of skin two to three times a day. |
| Lemon balm, tea tree, and lavender oils are almost as effective as lemongrass at helping to deter insects; use in the same way. |
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