First Aid Treatments with a Tropical Twist
For the Melanesian people of Vanuatu, a small island country located in the South Pacific Ocean, their dramatic volcanic mountains and lush forests are not only beautiful scenery, but an important source for healing and skincare products. The indigenous tribes of this exotic, isolated island nation have had centuries to make the most out of their abundant environment, and have developed organic and all-natural solutions to afflictions such as bug bites, sunburns and cuts.
Growing along the country’s low-lying coastal areas, the Tamanu tree could be considered Vanuatu’s own miracle drug. The oil of the tree’s plentiful nuts has been shown to have significant healing properties when applied to burns, scrapes and even nasty insect bites and stings, as it appears to have anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties. The fresh-smelling oil is even used as a natural deodorant, and some believe Tamanu massages even ease the pain of arthritic, neuralgia, and aching muscles.
http://www.volcanicearth.com/tamanuoil.html
And while Tamanu oil is useful after mosquitoes or sand flies have inflicted bites, another natural Vanuatu product is useful in keeping the pesky bugs at bay in the first place. Made with coconut oil and lemongrass, this traditional insect repellent contains no artificial chemicals and is reportedly very effective.
http://www.volcanicearth.com/mosquito-repellant.html
Not only is the island’s flora made useful by the Melanesians, but even the rich volcanic earth of the country’s picturesque mountains is put to good use. Reportedly working wonders on dry, sunburned or acne-prone skin, volcanic Vanuatu mud masks are highly popular not only with indigenous people, but are enjoyed by clients at some of the world’s top spas. Drawing out dirt, oil and toxins from the skin, these mineral-rich treatments are no doubt a little responsible for the South Pacific’s reputation as home to some of the world’s most beautiful women.
