Survival Skills: 32 Natural Remedies for Preppers & Off-Grid Living

Imagine a scenario where access to conventional medicine is limited. Whether it’s a natural disaster, economic disruption, or simply choosing a more self-sufficient lifestyle, being prepared with natural remedies can make a world of difference. This guide delves into 32 natural remedies for preppers and those living off the grid that are readily available. We’ll explore plants, herbs, and common household items that can be used to soothe wounds, boost your immune system, ease digestion, and address a variety of ailments. With a little knowledge and planning, you can harness the power of nature to promote well-being and navigate unexpected challenges. So, stock your pantry with these natural allies and gain the confidence to face whatever comes your way.

Survival Skills: 32 Natural Remedies for Preppers & Off-Grid Living

Natural Remedies for Preppers & Off-Grid Living

Let’s dive straight into our ultimate list and guide of natural remedies for preppers and those living off the grid

1. Honey

Survival Skills: 32 Natural Remedies for Preppers & Off-Grid Living

The first of our natural remedies for preppers is honey. Honey is a natural wonder produced by bees. It’s more than just a sweetener; it contains unique properties that make it beneficial for various ailments.

  • Antibacterial and Antifungal: Honey produces hydrogen peroxide, a natural disinfectant that helps fight bacteria and fungus. This makes it effective in treating minor wounds, preventing infection, and promoting healing.
  • Soothing: Honey’s thick consistency and natural sugars coat the throat, providing relief from coughs and sore throats.
  • Digestive Aid: Honey can help soothe an upset stomach and may aid digestion due to its prebiotic properties that promote good gut bacteria.
  • Energy Source: Honey is a natural source of carbohydrates and provides a quick energy boost.

Check the best price for honey by clicking here.

2. Aloe Vera

Survival Skills: 32 Natural Remedies for Preppers & Off-Grid Living

Aloe vera is a succulent plant with thick, fleshy leaves. The clear gel inside the leaves is packed with beneficial compounds.

  • Soothing Burns: Aloe vera gel has a cooling and calming effect on the skin. It can be applied topically to soothe burns, sunburns, and reduce inflammation.
  • Wound Healing: Studies suggest aloe vera may accelerate wound healing by promoting cell growth and reducing inflammation.
  • Insect Bites: Similar to burns, aloe vera gel can soothe the itching and inflammation caused by insect bites and stings.

Check the best price for aloe vera by clicking here.

3. Calendula

Survival Skills: 32 Natural Remedies for Preppers & Off-Grid Living

Calendula, also known as pot marigold, is a flowering herb with a long history of medicinal use.

  • Wound Healing: Calendula has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that promote wound healing and reduce infection risk. It’s often used for cuts, scrapes, and minor skin irritations.
  • Reduces Inflammation: Calendula can help soothe eczema, diaper rash, and other inflammatory skin conditions.

Check the best price for calendula by clicking here.

4. Plantain

Survival Skills: 32 Natural Remedies for Preppers & Off-Grid Living

Plantain, often considered a weed, is a readily available and surprisingly useful plant.

  • Drawing Out Infection: Plantain leaves have been used traditionally to draw out infection and pus from wounds and insect bites. They contain compounds with mild astringent properties that may help cleanse the wound.
  • Promoting Healing: Plantain may help speed up wound healing by reducing inflammation and promoting tissue regeneration.

Check the best price for plantain by clicking here.

5. Castor Oil

Survival Skills: 32 Natural Remedies for Preppers & Off-Grid Living

The benefits of castor oil is much more than an old wives tale. It is a among the most vital of natural remedies for preppersCastor oil is a vegetable oil derived from the castor bean plant. It has a thick consistency and a laxative effect.

  • Laxative: Castor oil is a powerful natural laxative that can help relieve constipation. It works by stimulating the intestines to contract and move stool through.
  • Soothing Skin: While primarily used internally, castor oil can also be applied topically to soothe irritated skin and may promote healing of wounds and burns (consult a health

Check the best price for castor oil by clicking here.

6. Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV)

Survival Skills: 32 Natural Remedies for Preppers & Off-Grid Living

Apple cider vinegar is a vinegar made from fermented apple juice. It contains acetic acid, which gives it its characteristic sour taste and many of its health benefits.

  • Digestive Aid: ACV helps break down food by stimulating the production of stomach acid. This can be helpful for people with low stomach acid who experience bloating or indigestion.
  • Blood Sugar Control: Studies suggest ACV may help regulate blood sugar levels by improving insulin sensitivity.
  • Antimicrobial Properties: The acetic acid in ACV may have some antibacterial and antifungal properties, making it a potential natural disinfectant for surfaces (diluted).

Important Note: ACV can be harsh on tooth enamel. Consume it diluted (with water or honey) and avoid brushing your teeth immediately after.

Check the best price for apple cider vinegar by clicking here.

7. Ginger

Survival Skills: 32 Natural Remedies for Preppers & Off-Grid Living

The use of ginger as a natural remedy goes back many, many years. This is just one reason it is considered to be one of the great natural remedies for preppers. Ginger is a root with a pungent aroma and a slightly spicy flavor. It’s a popular culinary ingredient and has a long history of medicinal use.

  • Nausea Relief: Ginger is a well-known remedy for nausea and vomiting. It works by calming the stomach and reducing nausea-causing signals to the brain.
  • Pain Relief: Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that may help relieve pain from conditions like arthritis and muscle aches.
  • Digestive Aid: Similar to ACV, ginger may aid digestion by stimulating digestive juices and promoting bowel movement.

Check the best price for ginger by clicking here.

8. Peppermint

Survival Skills: 32 Natural Remedies for Preppers & Off-Grid Living

Peppermint is a fragrant herb with a refreshing taste. It’s commonly used in teas and other culinary applications but also has medicinal benefits.

  • Digestive Relief: Peppermint relaxes the smooth muscles in the digestive tract, helping to relieve symptoms like bloating, indigestion, and cramps.
  • Nausea Relief: Similar to ginger, peppermint may help soothe nausea and vomiting.
  • Respiratory Support: Peppermint can help clear congestion and ease coughs due to its menthol content, which has a decongestant effect.

Check the best price for peppermint by clicking here.

9. Fennel Seed

Survival Skills: 32 Natural Remedies for Preppers & Off-Grid Living

Fennel seed is a flavorful spice with a licorice-like taste. It’s often used in Mediterranean and Indian cuisine but has medicinal properties as well.

  • Digestive Aid: Fennel seeds can help relieve gas and bloating by promoting the expulsion of gas from the digestive tract.
  • Cough Relief: Fennel has expectorant properties that help loosen mucus and clear congestion, making it beneficial for coughs.
  • Infant Gas Relief: Fennel tea has been traditionally used to soothe colic and gas in infants (consult a pediatrician before use with infants).

Check the best price for fennel seed by clicking here.

10. Dandelion Root

Survival Skills: 32 Natural Remedies for Preppers & Off-Grid Living

Dandelion root is the underground part of the dandelion plant. It’s often roasted and used as a tea or coffee substitute.

  • Liver Support: Dandelion root may help support liver function by stimulating the production of bile, a substance that aids in digestion and detoxification.
  • Diuretic: Dandelion root acts as a mild diuretic, helping the body eliminate excess fluids and potentially reducing bloating.
  • Blood Sugar Control: Some studies suggest dandelion root may help regulate blood sugar levels.

Check the best price for dandelion root by clicking here.

11. Garlic

Survival Skills: 32 Natural Remedies for Preppers & Off-Grid Living

Garlic is a pungent bulbous vegetable with a strong flavor and aroma. It’s a staple in many cuisines worldwide and boasts a range of health benefits.

  • Antibacterial and Antifungal: Garlic contains allicin, a powerful compound with antibacterial and antifungal properties. This may help fight off infections and boost the immune system.
  • Heart Health: Studies suggest garlic may help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, potentially reducing the risk of heart disease.
  • Detoxification: Garlic can stimulate the liver to produce enzymes that help the body eliminate toxins.

Check the best price for garlic by clicking here.

12. Elderberry

Survival Skills: 32 Natural Remedies for Preppers & Off-Grid Living

Elderberry is a flowering shrub with dark purple berries. The berries are commonly used in syrups and supplements for their health benefits.

  • Immune Support: Elderberry is rich in antioxidants and may help boost the immune system. Studies suggest it may shorten the duration of colds and flu.
  • Antiviral Properties: While research is ongoing, some studies suggest elderberry may have antiviral properties that help fight off influenza viruses.
  • Anti-inflammatory: Elderberry may also have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation associated with illness.

Check the best price for Elderberry by clicking here.

13. Echinacea

Survival Skills: 32 Natural Remedies for Preppers & Off-Grid Living

Echinacea is a flowering plant with daisy-like flowers. The root and aerial parts of the plant are used medicinally.

  • Immune System Stimulant: Echinacea is most commonly known for its ability to stimulate the immune system. It may help the body fight off infections and shorten the duration of colds and flu.
  • Anti-inflammatory: Echinacea may also have anti-inflammatory properties.

Important Note: Echinacea may interact with certain medications. Consult a healthcare professional before use if you are taking any medications.

Check the best price for Echinacea by clicking here.

14. Thyme

Survival Skills: 32 Natural Remedies for Preppers & Off-Grid Living

Thyme is a fragrant herb with a woody flavor. It’s a popular culinary ingredient and also has medicinal properties.

  • Respiratory Support: Thyme has expectorant and decongestant properties. It helps loosen mucus and clear congestion, making it beneficial for coughs and bronchitis.
  • Antimicrobial: Thyme may have some antimicrobial properties that can help fight off bacterial infections.

Check the best price for Thyme by clicking here.

15. Mullein

Survival Skills: 32 Natural Remedies for Preppers & Off-Grid Living

Mullein is a tall, biennial plant with fuzzy leaves and yellow flowers. The leaves are primarily used for medicinal purposes.

  • Respiratory Support: Mullein leaves have soothing and lubricating properties that can help relieve coughs and irritation in the respiratory tract.
  • Expectorant: Similar to thyme, mullein can help loosen mucus and ease congestion.

Check the best price for Mullein by clicking here.

16. Cayenne Pepper

Survival Skills: 32 Natural Remedies for Preppers & Off-Grid Living

Cayenne pepper is a hot pepper with a fiery taste. The heat comes from a compound called capsaicin, which offers surprising health benefits.

  • Pain Relief: Capsaicin can help reduce pain by depleting substance P, a neurotransmitter involved in pain signaling. It may be helpful for topical pain relief from arthritis, muscle aches, and headaches.
  • Improved Circulation: Cayenne pepper may stimulate circulation, potentially improving blood flow and promoting overall well-being.
  • Congestion Relief: Cayenne pepper can act as a decongestant by thinning mucus and easing congestion in the sinuses and airways.

Check the best price for cayenne pepper by clicking here.

17. Arnica

Survival Skills: 32 Natural Remedies for Preppers & Off-Grid Living

Arnica is a flowering mountain plant with yellow daisy-like flowers. It’s primarily used as a topical remedy.

  • Pain Relief and Swelling: Arnica is most commonly used for pain relief and reducing inflammation from bruises, sprains, and muscle soreness. However, research on its effectiveness is mixed.
  • Wound Healing: Some studies suggest arnica may promote wound healing, although more research is needed.

Important Note: Arnica should never be ingested as it can be toxic. Topical use only. Consult a healthcare professional before using arnica, especially if you have any allergies or skin conditions.

Check the best price for Arnica by clicking here.

18. Yarrow

Survival Skills: 32 Natural Remedies for Preppers & Off-Grid Living

Yarrow is a flowering herb with flat white flower clusters. It has a long history of medicinal use.

  • Pain Relief: Yarrow contains compounds with anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties. It may be helpful for headaches, muscle aches, and toothaches (consult a dentist for toothaches).
  • Wound Healing: Yarrow may promote wound healing due to its astringent properties that help contract tissues and reduce bleeding.

Check the best price for Yarrow by clicking here.

19. Meadowsweet

Survival Skills: 32 Natural Remedies for Preppers & Off-Grid Living

Meadowsweet is a flowering plant with white feathery flowers. The leaves and flowers are used medicinally.

  • Pain Relief: Meadowsweet contains salicylates, similar to aspirin, which have pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties. It may be helpful for headaches, menstrual cramps, and stomachaches.
  • Digestive Aid: Meadowsweet may also help soothe digestive discomfort and nausea.

Check the best price for Meadowsweet by clicking here.

20. Lavender

Survival Skills: 32 Natural Remedies for Preppers & Off-Grid Living

Lavender is a fragrant herb with beautiful purple flowers. It’s known for its calming aroma and has various medicinal uses.

  • Relaxation and Sleep: Lavender oil has calming and relaxing properties that can promote better sleep and reduce anxiety.
  • Pain Relief: Lavender oil may provide topical pain relief for headaches and muscle tension.
  • Skin Soother: Lavender oil can soothe minor skin irritations like sunburns and insect bites.

Check the best price for lavender by clicking here.

21. Coconut Oil

Survival Skills: 32 Natural Remedies for Preppers & Off-Grid Living

Coconut oil is a saturated fat extracted from the kernel of coconuts. It has a variety of uses, including culinary and medicinal applications.

  • Moisturizer: Coconut oil is an excellent moisturizer for skin and hair. It helps lock in moisture and improve skin health.
  • Antifungal Properties: Coconut oil contains lauric acid, which has antifungal properties. It may be helpful for treating mild fungal infections like athlete’s foot.
  • Hair Care: Coconut oil can be used as a hair conditioner and protect hair from damage.

Check the best price for coconut oil by clicking here.

22. Shea Butter

Survival Skills: 32 Natural Remedies for Preppers & Off-Grid Living

Shea butter is a fatty substance extracted from the nuts of the African shea tree. It’s a popular ingredient in cosmetics and has several benefits for skin health.

  • Moisturizer: Shea butter is a rich and thick moisturizer that helps hydrate and soften dry skin.
  • Soothing Skin Conditions: Shea butter may help soothe eczema, psoriasis, and other itchy skin conditions due to its anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Sun Protection: While not a sunscreen, shea butter may offer some mild protection against UV rays.

Check the best price for shea butter by clicking here.

23. Oatmeal

Survival Skills: 32 Natural Remedies for Preppers & Off-Grid Living

Oatmeal is a whole-grain cereal made from oat groats. It’s a breakfast staple but also has uses as a natural remedy.

  • Soothing Itchy Skin: Oatmeal has anti-inflammatory and anti-itching properties. Colloidal oatmeal baths or oatmeal poultices can help soothe itchy skin conditions like eczema and poison ivy.
  • Moisturizing: Oatmeal can help moisturize and soothe dry, irritated skin.

Check the best price for oatmeal by clicking here.

24. Baking Soda

Survival Skills: 32 Natural Remedies for Preppers & Off-Grid Living

Baking soda is a versatile household product with various uses, including some for natural remedies.

  • Soothing Skin Irritations: Baking soda can help neutralize the sting and irritation from insect bites and stings. It can also be used in a paste to help relieve sunburn discomfort.
  • Deodorant: Baking soda has mild odor-neutralizing properties and can be used as a natural deodorant.

Check the best price for baking soda by clicking here.

25. Clay

Survival Skills: 32 Natural Remedies for Preppers & Off-Grid Living

Clay comes in various types, each with different properties. In natural remedies, it’s often used for its absorbent qualities.

  • Detoxification: Bentonite clay is a popular type used in detoxifying masks or poultices. It may help draw out impurities from the skin.
  • Soothing Skin: Some clays have cooling and soothing properties that can be helpful for irritated skin.

Check the best price for bentonite clay by clicking here.

26. Raspberry Leaf Tea

Survival Skills: 32 Natural Remedies for Preppers & Off-Grid Living

Raspberry leaf tea is an herbal tea brewed from the dried leaves of the red raspberry plant. It’s traditionally used for women’s health concerns.

  • Uterine Tonic: Raspberry leaf tea is thought to tone and strengthen the uterine muscles, potentially aiding in childbirth. However, research is limited. Consult a healthcare professional before use during pregnancy.
  • Menstrual Cramps: Some studies suggest raspberry leaf tea may help ease menstrual cramps.

Disclaimer: Consult a midwife or healthcare professional before using raspberry leaf tea during pregnancy.

Check the best price for Raspberry Leaf Tea by clicking here.

27. Tea Tree Oil

Survival Skills: 32 Natural Remedies for Preppers & Off-Grid Living

Tea tree oil is an essential oil extracted from the leaves of the Melaleuca alternifolia plant. It’s known for its antiseptic and antimicrobial properties.

  • Acne Treatment: Tea tree oil may help reduce acne breakouts due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. However, it can be irritating to some skin types.
  • Antifungal: Tea tree oil can be helpful for treating mild fungal infections like athlete’s foot.
  • Wound Care: Tea tree oil may have some wound-healing properties and can be used topically on minor wounds (diluted).

Check the best price for Tea Tree Oil by clicking here.

28. Activated Charcoal

Survival Skills: 32 Natural Remedies for Preppers & Off-Grid Living

Activated charcoal is a black, odorless, and tasteless powder made by burning wood, coconut shells, or other organic materials under controlled conditions. It has a highly porous structure that allows it to absorb toxins.

  • Poisoning Treatment: In emergencies, activated charcoal can be used to absorb toxins in the stomach after accidental poisoning. However, it should only be used under medical supervision.
  • Diarrhea Relief: Activated charcoal may help relieve diarrhea by absorbing excess fluids and toxins in the gut.

Important Note: Activated charcoal can interfere with the absorption of medications. Consult a healthcare professional before using it if you are taking any medications.

Check the best price for Activated Charcoal by clicking here.

29. Goldenseal

Survival Skills: 32 Natural Remedies for Preppers & Off-Grid Living

Goldenseal is a flowering plant with a long history of medicinal use in North America. However, its effectiveness and safety are debated. This should be kept in mind when including it among natural remedies for preppers

  • Immune Support: Goldenseal has traditionally been used to support the immune system and fight off infections. However, research is inconclusive.
  • Diarrhea Relief: Some studies suggest goldenseal may help relieve diarrhea.

Disclaimer: Goldenseal can interact with certain medications and may cause side effects. Consult a healthcare professional before use.

Check the best price for Goldenseal by clicking here.

30. Slippery Elm

Survival Skills: 32 Natural Remedies for Preppers & Off-Grid Living

Slippery elm is a tree with a mucilaginous inner bark. The bark is the part used medicinally.

  • Soothing Sore Throat: Slippery elm has a soothing and lubricating effect on the throat, which can help relieve coughs, sore throats, and hoarseness.
  • Digestive Relief: Slippery elm may also help soothe digestive discomfort like heartburn and diarrhea due to its mucilage content.

Check the best price for slippery elm by clicking here.

31. Witch Hazel

Survival Skills: 32 Natural Remedies for Preppers & Off-Grid Living

Witch hazel is a flowering shrub with astringent properties. The leaves and twigs are used to make a witch hazel extract, a common household remedy.

  • Swelling Reduction: Witch hazel can help reduce swelling and inflammation from minor cuts, scrapes, and insect bites due to its astringent properties.
  • Hemorrhoid Relief: Witch hazel may provide some relief from hemorrhoid discomfort due to its astringent and soothing effects.

Check the best price for witch hazel by clicking here.

32. Probiotics

Survival Skills: 32 Natural Remedies for Preppers & Off-Grid Living

Last on our list of natural remedies for preppers is probiotics. Probiotics are live bacteria that are beneficial for gut health. They can be found in fermented foods like yogurt, kimchi, and sauerkraut, or taken as supplements.

  • Gut Health: Probiotics help maintain a healthy balance of gut bacteria, which is essential for digestion, immune function, and overall health.
  • Diarrhea Relief: Probiotics may help prevent or reduce diarrhea caused by antibiotics or other factors.
  • IBS Support: Some studies suggest probiotics may help alleviate symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Check the best price for probiotics by clicking here.

Natural Remedies for Preppers Conclusion

By incorporating these natural remedies for preppers into your prepper toolkit, you’ll be well on your way to promoting overall health and well-being in non-traditional settings. Remember, this knowledge is for informational purposes only and should not be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment of any medical conditions.

However, with a little planning and a well-stocked pantry of natural remedies, you can face unexpected situations with confidence. From soothing a sore throat to relieving digestive discomfort, these natural allies can empower you to take charge of your health and navigate challenges with resilience. So, the next time you’re exploring the wilderness or simply want to bolster your self-sufficiency, remember the power of nature’s medicine cabinet right at your fingertips.

This is just a small selection of natural remedies for preppers.

Take a look at more stuff here.

Written by doc cotton

Meet Doc Cotton, your go-to founder of NowShack and a goto for all things adventurous and outdoorsy. With an unwavering passion for van life and a deep connection to the great outdoors, Doc is your trusted guide to exploring the world off the beaten path.

Doc's journey began with a fascination for the freedom and simplicity that van life offers. From there, it was a natural progression to spend countless hours prepping and converting vans into cozy, mobile homes on wheels. Whether it's turning an old van into a comfortable living space or sharing tips on the best gear for outdoor adventures, Doc has you covered.

But Doc Cotton is not just about life on the road; he's also a dedicated student of survival skills. Always eager to learn and share, Doc's insights into wilderness survival and bushcraft are invaluable for anyone looking to connect with nature on a deeper level.