Bush Medicine Series – Aloe Vera

Mi tell yuh, di Jamaican sun feels amazing – it’s warm and inviting, perfect for a day at di beach or exploring di island. But sometimes, di sun can be a bit too much, and if you find yourself with a sunburn, don’t worry, there’s a herbal helper right here in Jamaica – Aloe Vera. This plant is known for its soothing properties and can be a real lifesaver when you’ve had a little too much sun.

A Quick Guide to Healing Sunburn in Negril

If you’ve spent di day under di hot Jamaican sun, mi know how it can feel when you’re too toasted. Mek sure to stay hydrated! Drink plenty of water, coconut water, or any hydrating drinks to replenish di fluids you lost under di sun. Sunburn dries out your skin, so the more fluids yuh take in, di better. Coconut water is especially great because it’s packed with electrolytes that help balance di body and keep yuh skin nourished.

First, Dab on Apple Cider Vinegar

Aloe vera works great on its own, but if yuh want an even better remedy, mi recommend apple cider vinegar on your skin first. Apple cider vinegar helps balance your skin’s pH, reduce inflammation, and prevent peeling later on. It might sound strange, but it works, and can be found in most of the large grocery stores in Negril. Soak a cotton ball in a diluted mixture of apple cider vinegar, and water (1:1 ratio) and gently dab it onto your sunburned skin. Don’t overdo it, mi tell yuh – just a light touch will do. Let it sit for a few minutes, then rinse off if it feels too strong.

Next, Find Some Fresh Aloe Vera

Bush Medicine Series - Aloe Vera 2

If yuh find yourself in Negril, especially around Seven Mile Beach, you’re in luck – aloe vera is never far away. It’s a plant that grows wild all around the area, thriving in the sun-soaked soil. Yuh can often spot it growing in local gardens, along paths, or even in the wild. Many locals cultivate it right in their own yards, using it for its powerful medicinal properties – a common practice in Jamaica where aloe is trusted to heal sunburns, cuts, and other skin issues.

And mi bet yuh, if you walk down Seven Mile Beach, you’ll probably meet a Rasta or two selling fresh aloe to visitors. These island vendors know that after a long day in di sun, nothing works better than a slice of aloe straight from the plant. It’s a quick and natural way to cool down your skin after getting a little too much sun while lounging by di beach. So, if you happen to overdo it and get a sunburn, keep an eye out for these friendly vendors – they’ll have just what yuh need to soothe di burn and bring some relief.

Now, Apply Aloe Vera

Now that your skin is prepped, it’s time to apply Aloe Vera. This cooling plant is a natural healer for sunburned skin. Whether yuh use fresh aloe from a plant or a pure aloe vera gel from the store, it’ll help reduce redness and soothe that burning feeling. Apply it generously to your skin and let it soak in. One application is good, but mi tell yuh, it’ll work even better if yuh apply it 2, 3, 4, or even more times throughout di evening. Aloe Vera helps keep your skin hydrated and provides much-needed relief, so feel free to apply it multiple times as needed.

But mi have to give yuh a little heads-up – don’t apply di aloe while you’re still in di sun! It might feel good at first, but trust mi, it can make di burn worse in the long run. Yuh want to wait until you’re done with di sun for di day and heading into some shade. Aloe works best when your skin is cool and relaxed, not when it’s still heated up from di sun. So, once yuh out of di direct sunlight, that’s when you want to slather on di aloe and let it do its magic!

Follow up by Nourishing Your Body with Herbal Remedies

Don’t forget, healing a sunburn isn’t just about what yuh put on your skin – it’s also about what you eat. Jamaica has a range of herbal remedies that can help heal your skin from the inside out:

  • Papaya: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, papaya helps repair skin damage. Eat it fresh or blend it into a smoothie to help speed up your recovery.
  • Mint Tea: Cooling and soothing, mint tea can help calm your body from the inside. It’s great for digestion too, which is important when you’re recovering from a day in di sun.
  • Aloe Vera Drink: If you can get your hands on aloe vera juice, sip it throughout the day. It helps hydrate di body and supports skin repair.
  • Cucumber: Just like it’s refreshing for your skin, cucumber is also hydrating when eaten. Add it to your meals or drink cucumber water to cool down and replenish di body.

Then Rest and Let Your Skin Heal

Bush Medicine Series, Aloe Vera, Image of a Hammock in the shade

While you’re taking care of your skin and body, don’t forget to rest. Healing from a sunburn takes time, so it’s important to give your body the chance to recover. Stay out of direct sunlight until your skin heals, and if possible, try to stay cool in shaded areas.

Some of Di Other Uses for Aloe Vera

Aloe vera isn’t just for sunburns – it’s a true island gem with a whole heap of other uses! Whether yuh need to hydrate di skin, soothe a rash, or even help with digestion, aloe’s got yuh covered. It’s used to moisturize, reduce inflammation, heal cuts, and even promote healthy hair growth. Some people even sip aloe vera juice to give their digestive system a little love and boost hydration. From your head to your toes, aloe is here to keep you feeling fresh and healthy – all-natural, all-Jamaican style.

Chill While You Heal with Jahlivity’s Ganja Gummies and Black Russian Pre-Rolls

And if yuh really want to kick back and relax while your burn heals, Jahlivity’s ganja gummies or Black Russian pre-rolls are the perfect choice. Both products are ideal because they don’t require any work or rolling – just pop a gummy for a smooth, mellow buzz or light up a pre-roll and let di relaxation take over. These island treats will help ease di tension and soothe your mind while your skin’s getting back to its natural glow. It’s di perfect way to let di island vibes work their magic and make sure you’re feeling good, inside and out. So, while aloe works wonders for di skin, Jahlivity’s products are here to take care of di rest!

 

Share
top