A family member spent eight hours at an amusement park in late spring, forgot to use sunblock, and came back looking like a parboiled lobster. We took a quick walk to the herb bed to pick a handful of young comfrey leaves, tossed the leaves in the blender with just enough water to whir and strained out the green matter. We dipped a clean cotton towel into the green liquid and gently applied it to the burns. Two applications and ten minutes later, the magic of comfrey already removed the heat and pain from the reddened skin.

Folks with severe bee sting allergies carry Epi-pens (epinephrine injections) to avoid anaphylactic shock from the histamine reaction. If they add another weapon to their arsenal of protection, buffered Vitamin C, they'll save time and money from doctor's office visits and no more waiting in line to fill the prescription. No kidding, I know whereof I speak. With my immune system in overdrive, Vitamin C prevented literally weeks of miserable hives, redness and itching on three separate encounters with a wasp, a yellow jacket and a bald-faced hornet. Carry the C powder with you in your purse or vehicle. (I carry 7-10 grams in a labeled brown tincture bottle.) When and if the occasion arises, all I do is pour the single dose into water or any potable liquid, mix and drink as soon as possible after the sting. The only side effect from the C might be softened or loose stools.

Jewel weed or wild Touch Me Not also is a terrific summertime remedy for itchy rashes from poison ivy and stings. Simply squeeze the juicy stems and apply the liquid to the site. Reapply several times, letting the previous application dry first. The final healing application should be made with the juice from a fresh Aloe leaf which, when dry, acts almost as a second skin, providing a barrier to germs and dirt.

Mosquitoes spoiling your evening barbecue? Pick a double handful of Lemon Balm leaves, pour water just off the boil over them, cover and steep till cool. Strain off the liquid and put in a spray bottle. The light fragrance appeals to humans but repels mosquitoes and gnats, so spritz on clothing and skin, around the patio or yard. Safe for youngsters and pets, this herbal spray definitely belongs on the camping trip! Store remainder in refrigerator, but most effective when used fresh.

Meanwhile, Chew On This: "There can be no doubt that a society rooted in the soil is more stable than one rooted in pavements." --Aldo Leopold