How To Stock Your Home Pharmacy
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Today, it’s all about how to stock your home pharmacy. There has been so much going on in the past couple of years with new or recurring illnesses, I decided it would be good to update this post from a few years ago. My biggest concern is having a total grid-down or other disaster affecting us and not being able to get those medications we all take for granted. I’m probably way overstocked with some of the items I feel are especially important, but that’s how I roll.
I have terrible arthritis, and I need to have some over-the-counter pain medication to get through the day. Some illnesses, like colds, are tough to treat and need to run their course, but it doesn’t hurt to help soothe the
Home Pharmacy
When I use the term “pharmacy,” I don’t mean a location where drugs are dispensed. I’m referring to the area in our home where we store the medications we use to prevent illnesses, soothe aching muscles, alleviate allergy symptoms, and take a few prescriptions our doctor has prescribed.
There have been so many life-altering challenges in the past few years that millions have had to deal with, and most were unexpected. We’ve seen floods, droughts, earthquakes, hurricanes, and numerous other natural disasters. The biggest issue I see is that most people are having to make do as best they can since they weren’t prepared in so many ways. Pharmacies had an alleged cyberattack that shut down their systems this past week. No one could get their prescriptions.
I hope most families have first aid kits at the very least; this post will go beyond the basics of first aid kits. Today, I’ll focus primarily on the simple over-the-counter products we use most often. There are certain medications we need to protect and nurture our family members, and we may also keep a few others for extended family visits, allowing us to be attentive to their needs. This particularly applies to various age-appropriate medications for both youngsters and older family members.
Check Dates
When you do pick up any of these products, please check the dates. We need to rotate them to keep their benefits current, so let’s get the freshest ones possible. I’m a big believer in essential oils so that I will share some of my favorites as well.
Please note that these items will not cure anything, but they can curb many of the symptoms that make us feel so miserable.
You may be saying, “I never get sick, I will never use any of these.” I get it. You may be one of those, like my husband Mark, who seldom get sick with anything. Here’s the deal: millions of people worldwide delay accessing vital medications when they are most needed.
When I think of the global health crisis we’ve dealt with for months now, many people couldn’t make those purchases they needed, whether food or meds, since so many stores were closed or the shelves were bare. Who would have thought we’d be faced with this situation? It’s certainly nice to be prepared for the unexpected. That’s when you’ll be very grateful for taking the time to stock your home pharmacy.
Mark and I had dinner with some friends and started talking about how our own neighborhoods may need help getting prepared for a disaster or an unforeseen emergency.
Neighborhoods Prepared?
We discussed the various streets in our neighborhood and who we know is prepared, which, I’m sad to say, is a pretty short list. It’s a scenario where 90% are unprepared and 10% are prepared. Can you imagine how many sick people will suffer if they don’t have the meds needed to stay as healthy as possible, reduce the symptoms that often come with illnesses, and make us feel more comfortable?
When others get sick, we may need to share our over-the-counter medications when necessary. If I were aware of a baby or toddler suffering, I would hope I had appropriate items that their mother could use.
What if an older couple in your neighborhood got diarrhea because of food poisoning or the flu? Now, imagine all the stores and pharmacies being closed for days or even weeks. They could get dehydrated very quickly. This is why I’m writing this post today. Let’s be prepared.
Check out your local stores, dollar discount-type stores, or box stores for the cheapest prices available, and ensure they have an expiration date that works for you. Sometimes we need a little nudge to remind us to stock up on those products we may need now or very soon.
We can sleep at night knowing we don’t have to run to the store at midnight to purchase one or more of these items for ourselves or a neighbor.
How To Stock Your Home Pharmacy
Please keep in mind, these are only suggestions. I am not a doctor, nurse, or anyone in the medical field. These are listed to help us think about the items we MAY want to stock up on.
Fever Reducers
I realize fever is a good thing sometimes, since it’s a sign our body is doing its best to fight infection. It’s when I can’t break a fever that I get worried. I’m not a doctor; I’m a mom and a grandma. This is my opinion.
- Aspirin
- Tylenol – acetaminophen
- Advil – ibuprofen
- Motrin – ibuprofen
- Other items you use
- Alice: Another item I like to keep on hand is Temparin (there may be other brands) to temporarily fix your tooth when a filling or crown falls out. I’ve only needed it a few times, but it’s great to have when you do. It will hold things in or replace them until you can get to a dentist.
Allergy Medications
If you have ever had allergies, these may look familiar and are often referred to as antihistamines. You can see that I listed Benedryl first. I have used that for so many issues.
Diarrhea Remedies/Constipation
Trust me, no one wants to deal with diarrhea when the sewer lines aren’t working and you need to use the bathroom. You may have indigestion or an upset stomach, but it could be more serious. This is another reason we need our emergency toilet and the items listed below. If you don’t want to make one, purchase one: Emergency Toilet and Odor Eliminator
- Imodium
- Rice Water
- LMNT: Electrolyte Packets
- Tagamet
- Colace
- Milk of Magnesia
- TUMS Antacid
- Alka Seltzer
- Pepto-Bismol
Cold and Flu
This year has been a tough one
- Vicks VapoRub
- Sambucol (Black Elderberry products)
- Nyquil
- Tylenol Cold and Flu
- Dimetapp
- Dayquil
- Mucinex
- Vicks VapoCool
- Nasal Sprays
Nausea Medication/Heartburn
I’m just giving you a heads-up here. I was able to buy Meclizine at Costco for cheaper than anywhere else. It’s behind the pharmacy counter, and as I remember, it was $3.00 for 100 tablets. If you have general abdominal challenges, the following could help provide some relief from the discomfort:
- Pepto Bismol
- Kaopectate
- Dramamine
- Bonine
- Meclizine
- Tums
- Rolaids
Skin Irritations
It’s all about making sure we are comfortable if and when our family needs the meds for support. I can’t imagine not having some Neosporin for minor cuts and wounds. Some of these help with rashes, while others can reduce swelling and itching caused by bug bites, ticks, and other insect bites. Please stock up according to your family’s needs.
- Epsom Salt
- Bag Balm
- Stokolan Cream
- Vaseline
- Aspercreme
- Coconut Oil
- Lidocaine
- Your favorite lotion or cream
- Anti-itch Cream
- Hydrocortisone
- Calamine Lotion
- Neosporin
- Apple Cider Vinegar
- Hydrogen Peroxide
- Alcohol
- Bio Freeze
- Leanne mentioned these two: For muscle pain/spasms – O24. Also for muscle pain/spasms – Formula 303. It is an herbal pill that also has a powerful smell.
- Ray mentioned: Tinactin spray is suitable for athlete’s foot. And Zanfel for poison ivy.
Anti-Fungal Medications
It’s nice to have these in our stash, as you never know when you might need them.
- Monistat (vaginal yeast infections)
- Athlete’s Foot prevention powder or ointment
- Diaper Fungal Infection
Essential Oils
Every essential oil company will have different names for its essential oils. I’m sharing the products from doTerra. This is one of my favorite Essential Oil Books, you may like to have in your home. Essential Oils
My grandkids love Breathe, Peppermint, and Deep Blue.
- Breathe
- Deep Blue
- Oregano
- Wintergreen
- OnGuard
- Peppermint
- Tea Tree Oil (thank you, Leanne, for the reminder)
Other Important Supplies
There are other essential items to ensure you have in your medicine cabinet or pantry. One is a thermometer. The new digital thermometers are convenient and can be used by swiping them across your forehead.
You should continue to use hand sanitizer whenever you’re out in public. If you shake hands, use a handrail, punch an ATM keypad, or use someone else’s cell phone, be sure to use some hand sanitizer afterward.
Ensure your first aid kit is stocked with bandages of various sizes, handy wipes, gauze pads, antibiotic ointment, and other essential items for treating minor cuts. Have some tweezers to take out splinters, thorns, or bee stingers.
How To Stock Your Home Pharmacy
When an illness strikes in the middle of the night or a storm keeps you homebound, having a well-stocked home pharmacy can make all the difference. From minor cuts to seasonal colds, the right supplies can help you care for your family quickly and confidently—without a late-night pharmacy run.
Why You Should Stock a Home Pharmacy
Emergencies don’t always give you a warning. Whether it’s the flu, allergies, or an unexpected injury, being prepared means you can handle health issues as they arise. A home pharmacy isn’t just about medicine—it’s peace of mind.
Having an organized supply ensures:
- You’re ready for sudden illnesses or injuries.
- You can treat minor problems at home safely.
- You’ll avoid unnecessary trips to urgent care or pharmacies when stores are closed.
- You’ll be more self-reliant during emergencies or disasters.
Basic Medical Supplies to Include
Begin with the essentials for treating everyday ailments and minor injuries.
First Aid Basics:
- Bandages (various sizes)
- Sterile gauze pads and tape
- Antiseptic wipes or hydrogen peroxide
- Antibiotic ointment (like Neosporin)
- Tweezers and small scissors
- Disposable gloves
- Thermometer
- Instant cold packs
Pain and Fever Relief:
- Acetaminophen (Tylenol)
- Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin)
- Aspirin (for adults only)
Allergy and Cold Relief:
- Antihistamines (Benadryl, Zyrtec, or Claritin)
- Decongestant (Sudafed)
- Cough syrup or throat lozenges
- Saline nasal spray
Stomach and Digestive Aids:
- Antacids (Tums, Pepto-Bismol)
- Anti-diarrheal medication (Imodium)
- Laxatives
- Electrolyte packets (like Pedialyte)
Topical Treatments:
- Hydrocortisone cream for rashes or itching
- Aloe vera gel for burns
- Calamine lotion for insect bites or poison ivy
Prescription Medications
If you or a family member takes prescription medications, consider keeping an extra supply (at least 30 days) if possible. Rotate them regularly to ensure freshness.
Store them in their original labeled containers and check expiration dates monthly.
Natural and Home Remedies
Some people prefer to include natural alternatives in their home pharmacy.
Consider:
- Honey (great for sore throats and coughs)
- Herbal teas (chamomile, peppermint, ginger)
- Essential oils (lavender for calming, tea tree for minor skin irritations)
- Epsom salt (for baths and muscle relief)
Medical Tools and Devices
- Blood pressure monitor
- Pulse oximeter
- Blood glucose meter (if needed)
- Heating pad or hot water bottle
- Humidifier
- Ice packs
Storage Tips
Proper storage keeps your medications safe and effective:
- Store in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and moisture (not the bathroom).
- Use clear bins or labeled containers for organization.
- Check expiration dates every six months and safely dispose of outdated medicines.
- Keep all medications out of reach of children and pets.
When to Restock
Review your home pharmacy twice a year—typically before winter (cold and flu season) and summer (outdoor injury season). Refill anything that’s expired, used up, or nearing its expiration date.
Final Word
I hope this post helps you consider and take action on stocking your home pharmacy. So often, we tend to put off those things that aren’t an immediate need rather than taking charge and doing what could make all the difference if emergencies come our way. A well-stocked home pharmacy is a cornerstone of family preparedness. It’s not about panic—it’s about preparation. Taking time now to organize and restock your medicines means you’ll be ready for whatever life throws your way.
The media is currently focusing on the shortages we are facing at so many levels: food, gas, natural gas, building materials, and more. Our supply chain is a mess, and it’s unclear when things will improve. We are prepping for the future to the best of our ability. Thanks for being prepared for the unexpected. May God bless this world. Linda
Copyright Images: Pharmacy Picture Depositphotos_81637954_S BY SimpleFoto
Great list of OTC items to have on hand for emergencies. Nice to see a few items I hadn’t thought of to add to my stockpile – have added them to my shopping list now. 🙂
For rehydrating folks, electrolyte packets are convenient, but will eventually expire (maybe…more on that later…) In addition to some of the packets I stock the ingredients for oral rehydration solution. The formula I use is really simple: 1/2 liter of water, 1 tablespoon of sugar, 1/8 teaspoon of baking soda, 1/8 teaspoon of Morton’s Lite Salt (half regular salt and half potassium salt.) Stored separately the ingredients have an indefinite shelf life. When dry mixed, it’s best used within a year. When mixed into water it should be used within 24 hours for best effectiveness.
There have been studies on expiration dates of medicine, both OTC and prescription and a surprising number of them are safe and effective more than a decade after the best by date. Liquid medicines are not as robust, so I tend to rotate them out early and often, but real pills I keep until needed.
Here are few useful articles so folks can make their own judgements on when to toss out old medicines:
https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/drug-expiration-dates-do-they-mean-anything
https://www.propublica.org/article/the-myth-of-drug-expiration-dates?utm_source=pocket&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=pockethits
Thanks for all the great prepping articles!
Hi DmWalsh, thanks for the links!! I love it! It’s all about being prepared for the unexpected! Great comment! Linda
Not only is this good for a disaster, it is good for convenience. Who wants to go out in the middle of the night, to find a store that is open, so you can overpay for some Tylenol at a convenience store.
Hi Janet, I know the prices at those convenience stores are outrageous!! I never want to go out to find Tylenol at midnight either! Great comment! Linda
Good stuff!
Oh Matt, you are so nice!!! Thank you!! Linda
Very thoughtful and complete list thank you
Hi John, you are so nice! Thank you for your kind words! Linda
Thanks, Linda ~
I have a pretty well stocked supply with OTC, natural (herbs, EOs) and other stock (rubber gloves, first aid items, etc.). I am probably not as stocked as you are but I feel pretty confident.
One thing that I would add to your post: learn how to make home remedies. John at Learning Herbs has a great herbal remedy kit with just about everything one needs to learn how to make salves, syrups, teas/infusions, etc. I purchased one a few years ago (they run about $100) but teach the basics to make your own herbal medicines. For example: I learned how to make my own elderberry syrup – the dried berries were included along with bottle(s) to bottle the syrup once made. Now I keep the ingredients on hand all the time. I purchase dried elderberries from Mountain Rose Herbs out of Eugene Oregon and keep these along with the other items needed to make the syrup. I also keep the ingredients to make salves/balms so that I don’t have to rely on pharmaceuticals all the time. I do keep pain relievers, etc., from the drug store but they are a fairly minor part of my kit.
I have also learned how to identify “weeds” that have beneficial properties. I have learned what those properties are and how I would be able to use them if/when an emergency occurs.
We need to educate ourselves. I always believed that once you have an education, no one can take that away from you!!
Hi Leanne, what a great comment!!! I buy Elderberry products, but I need to make them!! I also want to make my own salves! You’ve inspired me. I need to get with it! Love it! Linda
Maybe the “My Doctor suggests Gel” should read as “Aloe Gel”?
Hi Tom, I’m not sure about the Aloe Gel. Linda
What kind of “gel” do you think that the doctor suggests then? If you get Solarcaine or an equivalent of it then you get the Aloe Vera gel along with the Lidocaine.
Hi Tom, oh now I see what you are asking, I’m sorry. My Doctor Suggests “Gel” is silver: https://mydoctorsuggests.com/silver-liquids/
One of the Silver Gels has Aloe. They are both great products. Linda
Great list, thank you. I agree with learning and growing more herbal remedies. I joined an herbalism subscription box that sends me a box full of recipes and supplies every other month to make my own salves, elderberry syrup, tinctures and more. It has a featured herb each month so I learn them one herb at a time. Best investment I have made in learning herbs and taking care of my family. It’s called ApotheBox.
Hi Deanna, oh I have got to look into this group! I really want to make my own salves and Elderberry syrup. Great comment! Linda
I know that I read this post back in March and commented but something that I missed: Tea Tree Oil – I have several bottles at this time – this is an essential oil that is ESSENTIAL in my preps!
Hi Leanne I totally agree on this that! I will go add it to the post, thank you, girlfriend! Linda
Great list, I need to get some of theses. Also good comments, will look into the herb lessons.
Stockpile as much raw honey that you can. It doesn’t go bad. Honey can be used for many health issues. It stops coughs immediately and for a long time. Many kids don’t like cough syrup, but nobody turns down a spoon of honey! Also good as an antiseptic over a wound.
HI Laura, great comment! I stock a lot of raw honey! Great reminder, thank you so much! Linda
Acidophilus will cure yeast infections more quickly and effectively than Vagisil. It’s a natural supplement found in the vitamin section of your grocery store. It restores the balance of natural flora and the relief is nearly immediate. Have used it every time I’ve felt a problem developing and it has worked every time.
HI Janet, thank you, this is a great tip!! I think there are so many natural supplements we can use. I love hearing personal experiences where something has helped someone just like you. I love it! Linda
I suffered from yeast infections terribly and then was given acidophilus and it was like a miracle!! I just want to help everyone else who suffers from the same problem. It is amazing. Thanks for your great blog! 🙂
Hi Janet, I love tips, we all learn from each other! Thank you! Linda
Hi Linda. I don’t use Vaseline (petroleum jelly). I do make a non petroleum jelly. Olive oil, or coconut oil, or almond oil and bees wax. Melted and poured into a jar. I have put antibacterial essential oils in it as well. For the recipe, you can search the internet for it.
Hi Deborah, WHAT? I need to do this, thank you, my friend! Linda
Linda, I also stock antibiotics in my medical supplies. For a person, dog, or cat, you have to have a prescription to obtain antibiotics. Fish are difficult to transport to the vet, so pet supply sites like Jeffers.com will sell fish antibiotics with no script. I keep several bottles of amoxicillin (500 mg, one twice a day for 10 days) in my freezer to keep them fresh. I buy mine from Jeffers.com for $29.99 for 100 pills. They offer several other kinds of antibiotics, so I keep a list of names, dosages for adults and children, and conditions the antibiotics treat in the bag with the antibiotics – you can look up the medication on the internet to find this information.
Hi Peggy, thank you for the name of this company. I know a lot of people buy fish antibiotics, we have to be able to have access to antibiotics. Thank you!! Linda
Hi.
If so, would you please share the dimensions of the bag? It’s discontinued here in the United States. I can’t find anything similar. I appreciate your help.
Hi Mazah, what bag are you talking about? Is it a bag to hold first aid supplies? I would buy whatever would work for your supplies. I just bought a new one and I need to buy smaller bottles to accommodate the first aid kit. That post is going live soon. Linda
I avoid pain medication as much as possible, because of my fever of drugs. When I have tried to do too much, I resort to Tylenol PM. It doesn’t aliveate pain, but it does help me rest. I only take one. If someone has a better idea, I am willing to listen.
Hi Chris, we all know our own bodies, but I take Motrin throughout the day for arthritis as needed. Tylenol Pm is one thing I stock as well. Linda
Most of us have Anthem Advantage now instead of Medicare.
I have had 4 answers from different reps since first week of Jan.
I only have a debit card that allows $100 every 3 months from a Walgreens.
Does this roll over monthly?? quarterly?? I know it doesn’t roll over Dec. 31 to the next year.
Anyone???
The wait time on the 1-866 line was 527 minutes.
Thanks.
HI JayJay, I don’t know about your Anthem Advantage card but our Medicare card gives us $50.00 each per quarter for pharmacy items. You must use it or you lose it. Linda
Another excellent article Linda! We have what our grandson calls ” the medicine closet”! It was a linen closet, has floor to ceiling shelves on each side. One side is hygiene the other is “medicine”. I keep cases of bottled water in the middle.
HI Beth, way to go my sweet friend! You are prepared! I love this idea. Linda
FYI. There is a link between prolong use of Diphenhydramine and increase dementia risk. Here’s the link: https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/common-anticholinergic-drugs-like-benadryl-linked-increased-dementia-risk-201501287667
Also there is a company out there that will sell you prescription medication (they have doctors on staff). It’s Jase Medical. I removed the link, because I called them and they will only give limited antibiotics to families. They have limitations, I love the idea, the campany is awesome but it doesn’t work for those of us who want to stockpile. Just my own opinion. K have heard of Benadryl linked to Dementia, I wonder if its what’s caused my severe Glaucoma issues.I will never know.Linda
Thanks for this list, Linda. I have a lot of these items but am working on having meds for my grandkids.
Thank you for the list. I forgot about a couple of things and this reminded me I need to get them. One thing I’ve noticed is that no one talks about constipation unless it happens to one. What do you do if you or someone’s, bound up.I think Phillips Milk of Magnesia or something similar along with a stool softener might be a good thing to add.
HI Kathy, our family had a young adult this week with that issue, I have Milk of Magnesia on the list. I also heard about Milk of Magnesia Gummies. I love it ! Linda
I may have missed it but…
Add in topical pain relievers such as Bio Freeze, pain patches, and that sort of thing. If/when SHTF, we WILL have sore muscles due to over work, stress, etc., and may not have access to ice for relief. I swear by Bio Freeze but there are a number of the same type of topicals – Icy Hot? Lidocain patches, and a bunch more!
Hi Leanne, you are right I wil add that right now, thank you my friend. Linda
This is a nice list and remember that just because you’ve never used it before doesn’t mean you won’t need it all of a sudden. There are two things that I believe in that weren’t on the list: 1) Saline nasal spray, does wonders for dry noses, colds and allergies. And can also be used for first aid purposes to clean wounds on both people and animals. I carry two bottles of it in my cat’s first aid kit, plus several bottles in our first aid kits.
2) A product called Cold Crush made by Genexa. Oh my, that stuff is amazing. We have a toddler living in our house this year and she is an expert at sharing the colds from daycare. Cold Crush has kept us going all winter. I get it on Amazon but I imagine you can find it elsewhere. They also make a product called “Flu Fix” and I have a bottle of it in my Cold and Flu box but none of us have needed it. I’ll report on it when we need it.
I have to say that I love, love, love Bio Freeze, it works better than anything else that I’ve tried and there are days where I only can move because of Bio Freeze.
I want to remind everyone to have several options if you are planning on sharing with people you don’t know well. My husband has both glaucoma and kidney disease and there are a lot of those meds he cannot take. So if you are planning on your parents, in-laws, etc on joining if things get rough, check to find out if there are OTC products they cannot take.
I am experimenting with herbal things and making elderberry syrup was the first thing I made. While I like essential oils, you either need to learn how to make them (not easy) or have a back up if your supply runs out and you can’t get more (ie, supply chain breakdown.) You can grow a lot of the items needed for herbal remedies. My “I’ll get around to it one day” list has starting a medicinal herb garden.
Hi Topaz, thank your for your ideas, I am going to add the three you mentioned. Thank you so much for the suggestions. Linda
I know I’ve commented a few times but I have found a couple of products recently that I swear by:
For muscle pain/spasms – O24. You can get it in wipes, spray and roll on. It is an herbal preparation and has a VERY strong scent. I only use it at night because of the scent but it works really well.
Also for muscle pain/spasms – Formula 303. It is an herbal pill that also has a VERY strong smell.
My Chiropractor carries the Formula 303 but I purchase both of the above mentioned products from Amazon. My Chiropractor carries a smaller bottle of Formula 303 and I get a larger bottle from Amazon.
For those wanting to use herbal and essential oils for their home pharmacy, it is absolutely necessary to learn how to use them properly. Research is needed if you also take prescription medications. HERBAL MEDICINE IS MEDICINE!! Some herbs mess with prescription meds so keep that in mind.
Someone mentioned they don’t use petroleum jelly (Vaseline, etc.) and I don’t either. For things like Vicks, I use coconut oil an
Hi Leann I’m going to add these to my list, thank you!! Linda
Linda, Tinactin spray is good for athlete’s foot. And Zanfel for poison ivy.
Hi Ray, thank you, I just added both of those, thank you!! Linda
When I was in chemo/radiation many years ago, my radiology PA suggested I get an aloe plant. I already had some. She said that I should peel the skin and then run the gel in a blender (or just used it as it came if I didn’t have a blender). She wanted me to used that for the inevitable radiation burns as it is such a wonderful substance. I was to start smearing it all over the area immediately. Even before treatment started. I was able to use it almost all the way through. ( It does resemble something that comes out of your nose!) No stain or smell.
I live in the subtropics, so I have a patch of it in my garden, but for northerners, it grows really well in a pot. It’s a succulent- not a cactus. It does need some watering!
It has so many uses both internally (drinking) and on the skin. Do research online.
Hey, Linda and crew: I hope this list will not duplicate what others have commented on above, as the ads always block me trying to scroll up or down pages on your site anymore. The only thing that works is Ctrl+R (refresh), and then the page does not end up where I need it to return to!
Anyway: Here is my most favored products from “natural medicine” list in my medical larder. IVERMECTIN, Oscillococcinum for any flu symptoms, Zinc (!) without which not much of anything will get rid of a virus, Elderberry Juice, Lozenges, Syrup or Gummies…they all help a lot (!) We also swear by the Quantum Immunity Elderberry-C syrup , Vit. C (take with Quercetin, as the “C” recycles the used Quercetin, which fights spike proteins and many other viruses if also taken with Zinc* which is the “bullet” that stops viruses* from replicating, as per Dr. Zelenko), Magnesium Citrate, Glycinate, Taurate, etc. for constipation, and any homeopathics that are needed for specific type of illness. For Example: Nux Vomica for nausea and vomiting, Phosphorus 30c for laryngitis and “Preacher’s Throat”, BHI homeopathic for Diarrhea – works almost like magic (!) or WHP “Be Gone” Diarrhea product, Ignatia Amara 30c for grief, Byronia for Dizziness and flu, Hypericum for shooting nerve pains, Arnica Montana for recovery from surgery, for any excess straining or bruising, or needed muscle recovery, Antimonium Tart is for phlegmy coughs when you still cannot bring the phlegm up, my Homeopathic specialist says that Variolum is made from small pox, so some practitioners say it could work for that. Can be purchased from Hahnneman Homeopathics (Dr. Hahnneman was the original homeopath, if I remember history correctly!) and the famous Dr. Robert Malone teaches that Ivermectin will protect and mitigate Yellow Fever. I generally buy 30c for most homeopathic meds. and they work very well. However, if you have an extremely acute case, you can always switch to 200c for awhile, since that is stronger. Cantharis 30 is great for UTIs, too! Alot of people do not realize it, but Tulsi Tea is also very healing and nourishing. Moringa and dried Nettles are both very good for nutritional deficiencies. I also ALWAYS have on hand Lion’s Mane mushroom for my elderly brain, and in fact, take regularly the “Sacred 7 Mushrooms” powder that I buy from Amazon. That will help your entire immune system alot! I swear by that last one, and even though 1 canister is expensive, you only need 1/4 tspn. a day, so it last for years!!!
Hi Jess, you can block the ads in your browser. It’s a click away. I’m so sorry. Linda
Hi Linda 🙂 I was an ICU and ER nurse for 38 years- mostly at large teaching hospitals. I am also a fan of essential oils. We sometimes forget how potent they are. I must give a word of warning re: Wintergreen oil. It is a Very concentrated source of methyl salicylate and can be extremely toxic. One of the saddest pediatric deaths I ever saw was a 3 year old who had climbed onto the kitchen counter and drank some of the oil. I’ll say no more- except that it was heartbreaking. If you choose to keep this oil in your formulary, please take EXTRA security measures (locked box) to keep it out of little hands. Thanks so much for your post…
Hi Diana, oh my goodness, thank you for this wonderful safe advice. We all need to hear this, Linda
Diana, thank you for that very important reminder on Wintergreen Oil. It is not actually recommended to drink that oil due to it’s strength, not for any age. I will say, though, that the Wintergreen Oil from Young Living comes with a childproof cap, so it is unlikely that a small child could get the bottle open… Thank you!
Yes, I was also going to leave a reminder for Young Living Essential Oils products, which are of exceptionally high quality and WORK! Di-Gize for digestion problems. On my 2nd ever missions trip to Uganda, one of the volunteer workers got so constipated that she was worried about a bowel blockage…so was her male nurse husband. I gave her some Di-Gize and she was finally able to “go” without any complications..Good to know if you are traveling abroad and not used to the type of food offered. I always mention Melrose Oil which is a blend that works wonders on cuts and sores. It has Tea Tree Oil for the infective part, and the Rosemary in it makes the cells heal extra fast. Our family swears by Melrose. We are also HUGE FANS of R.C., which will open up stuffed up sinuses and help you breathe better, even from lungs. Purification will take care of bee and wasp stings, etc., and there is so much more! I am also an avid fan of the Boiron homeopathic “pills” called “Sinus Calm” and “Throat Calm”, which you can buy at Amazon for cheap! I have been known to give some of those for people in a lot of pain or with massive trouble with their sinuses, and they’ve all come back to me “wowed”, just like our family is!!
ANOTHEr IMPORTANT THING EVERYONE SHOULD KNOW: Dr. Stella Immanuel just announced that shortly she will be letting her clients get 1 year’s worth of prescriptions for their regular meds. She is thinking people should be able to stockpile their regular prescriptions, even tho’ many drs. only allow for 90 days. There is also a new company that sells almost any sort of anti-flu and many other prescription medicines, called PharmEasyStore.com, and they will sell you a lot of things that are hard to come by elsewhere. I am unsure of the pricing, though, cause I buy my Iverguard from an Indian Pharmaceutical company, and have had wonderful results at a cheap price. They sell a lot more than that, though, mostly all generic to save you money. 🙂
Hi Jess, I can get every prescription I need for 90 days with refills for the year. I always check to see if they are cheaper by paying out of pocket but most of my prescriptions co-pay is zero. I fell very blessed we need very few prescriptions at our age. 75 and 79. Life is good. Linda
Unfortunately, the problem is not one of an Rx, but the insurance companies. IF you are willing to pay the cost out of pocket and NOT with insurance, you can stockpile Rx’s with your doctors ok, but insurance companies won’t allow more than 1 month at a time. This from experience.
I have one Rx that I buy myself as my insurance doesn’t allow that particular brand …they want another brand that isn’t as good and it’s also synthetic, so because it isn’t expensive, I buy it myself but I still ahave to have a Rx from my naturopathic doctor.
Hi Carol, I feel bad they will only give you 30 days worth. It also depends on the prescription, they have laws they have to follow. I get it. I agree with you some generic are not as good. We can walk into every pharmacy outside the USA (I bought some in England and Paris) and buy whatever prescription we want and cheaper than here. No script needed. It’s a shame. Linda
If you have high blood pressure you will need to look for OTC meds that have DM listed, ex Mucinex DM. It will not raise your blood pressure like reg. Mucinex. Just a thought.
Hi Mona, that’s a very good point, thank you for the reminder. I have Glaucoma so I cannot take decongestants at all. Thank you, Linda
Another item I like to keep on hand is Temparin (there may be other brands) to temporarily fix your tooth when a filling or crown falls out. I’ve only needed it a few times but it’s great to have when you do need it. It will hold things in or replace until you can get to a dentist. Instructions say to see a dentist within 48 hours, not sure how much longer you can stretch that. It does have an expiry date but I make sure I always have a current one on hand.
Hi Alice, I just added this to the list, good one, thank you! Linda
My husband and I have a mini pharmacy in our house. Our daughter is “allergic to Nevada” – which means if it grows here, she’s allergic to it. We’ve got it all for allergies! Being seniors, we pretty much need a little of this, a little of that now and again. I have all our supplies categorized and routinely rotated so we have what we need, when we need it. I have saved all the supplies from my late mother’s hospitalizations, etc., plus added to “injury” needed supplies, including the Israeli bandages! Having EMT experience, it may come in handy! Who knows!? I agree with what has been said about the insurance companies interferring with Rx’s, etc. I get my diabetes medication through Canada – $75 for 3 month’s supply vs $600 or more for one month here in the US. Last year I was diagnosed with cancer (prognosis is good) but my medication at a full dose is almost $16,000 PER MONTH! No one can pay that! I had to change companies at the first of the year so I made sure to get my first Rx at the first of the month which gave me a one month extra supply! woo hoo! Then, later on right after I had filled a month’s Rx of 2x a day, my Rx was reduced to 1x a day-again, another month of extra Rx. Can we get another woo hoo! Now I have an emergency supply of 2 months of my medication. Still costs almost $4,000 a month but I have no choice if I want to live. If a person knows how to work the system legally, it can be done.
Hi Robbie, the cost of prescription is ridiculous in the USA “Big Pharma Greed”, we should not have to outside the USA to get the medications we need. I’m glad you found a solution for now. I’m praying for your health to improve, my sweet friend. Linda
Maybe not for a home pharmacy, but if you might run across someone else who is in need of basic first aid you must have masks and protective eye goggles in case of blood spattering. I carry a stethoscope and blood pressure kit as well. A blood glucose meter with strips might also come in handy to see if someone has very low or very high blood sugar levels…. it could save their life.
Actually, heartburn is more often caused by TOO LITTLE stomach acid rather than too much. Tums and Rolaids will only increase the problem. Carry HCL tabs and take those instead.
PS: I just noticed that you mention the BP kit and glucose meter…..
Hi Carol, great comment, I just purchased a blood pressure kit, I have wanted one for a long time. I have a stethoscope, the glucose strips would be a great idea, thank, you! Linda