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An essential component when it comes to building your preparedness arsenal is stocking up on over-the-counter (OTC) drugsthat effectively address a wide range of medical issues from alleviating allergies and pain, managing respiratory and intestinal infections and tackling various other ailments.

It is worth noting that there arenatural alternatives to OTCdrugs whenSHTF events disrupt their availability. Explore some of the key options you can stockpile. Analgesics

Affordable and available in every pharmacy, acetaminophen, ibuprofen and aspirin are OTC analgesics that relieve minor pain from headaches, muscle aches, toothaches and menstrual cramps and reduce fever as well. Ibuprofen and aspirin are both classified as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Here are some natural alternatives to analgesics:

Ginger. Although this spice is often administered to stop nausea and vomiting, it is also effective when it comes to pain relief. Ginger is both an analgesic that has some powerful anti-inflammatory compounds, and an antioxidant that acts to fight pain on a cellular level. Ginger works for everything from headaches to muscle aches, menstrual cramps to joint pain. Try some ginger tea with honey rather than ibuprofen for your next headache.

Cayenne pepper. These spicy little veggies are one of Mother Nature’s most healing substances and are great at pain relief. The effective ingredient in cayenne pepper, capsaicin, stops the body from making “substance P” the neuropeptide that sends pain signals to your brain.

Turmeric. Turmeric has become a popular “cure all” but it has actually been used for thousands of years. Turmeric works the same way as cayenne pepper as it stops substance P from reaching the brain and signaling pain. Turmeric is a super powerful anti-inflammatory, as well, so it works well for stopping arthritis and other types of joint pain.

Eugenol. Eugenol is a chemical that is found in cloves, nutmeg, bay leaf, basil and cinnamon. Cloves are a common remedy to stop toothaches, but these can help with other types of pain as well. Eugenol inhibits the COX-2 enzyme, which is the enzyme that initiates the inflammation process. Taking essential oils that contain eugenol can naturally stop inflammation and pain.

Omega-3s. Flax seed oil, cod liver, chia, hemp and fish oils are a very reliable defense against pain, especially for those with neck or back pain, and those suffering from arthritis. The omega-3 fatty acids that are found in these oils break down prostaglandin, which is a pro-inflammatory hormone. Studies have found that consuming omega-3s cut the amount of NSAID use by as much as two-thirds for those with neck or back pain and as much as one-third for those suffering from arthritis pain. Antibiotics

OTC antibiotic ointments are applied to the site of the injury to prevent infection. However, its important to note that triple antibiotic ointment is not sufficient for curing deep infections; oral or intravenous antibiotics are required in such cases. Immediate application of the ointment after an injury significantly reduces the risk of infection. Apply the ointment three to four times a day. (Related: Survival medicine: 14 Natural alternatives to antibiotics.)

Here are some affordable, effective and safe natural antibiotics you can use.

Garlic. Cultures across the world have long recognized garlic for its preventive and curative powers. Research has found that garlic can be an effective treatment against many forms of bacteria, including Salmonella and Escherichia coli. Garlic has even been considered for use against multi-drug-resistant tuberculosis.

Honey. Since the time of Aristotle, honey has been used as an ointment that helps wounds to heal and prevents or draws out infection. The antibacterial effects of honey are usually attributed to its hydrogen peroxide content. But manuka honey can still fight off bacteria, even though it has a lower hydrogen peroxide content. Healthcare professionals today have found it helpful in treating chronic wounds, burns, ulcers, bedsores and skin grafts.

Oregano. Some believe that oregano boosts the immune system and acts as an antioxidant. It may have anti-inflammatory properties.

While researchers have yet to verify these claims, some studies show that oregano is among the more effective natural antibiotics, particularly when it is made into an oil. Antidiarrheals

Given the high likelihood of food and water contamination issues in the aftermath of a disaster, loperamide is an essential medication to include in your survival medicine cabinet as an antidiarrheal.

The usual dosage is two tablets (4 mg) after the first loose bowel movement, followed by one tablet (2 mg) after each subsequent loose bowel movement. The maximum intake within 24 hours should not exceed four tablets (8 mg). Additionally, consider stocking rehydration salts, a vital mix of electrolytes that can be added to water to restore balance.

Here are some powerful medicinal plants for treating diarrhea that doesn’t require a trip to the pharmacy and OTC medications:

Guava. All varieties of this medicinal plant are an excellent source of vitamin C, dietary fiber, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, phenols, pectin, carotenoids, triterpenes, lectins, essential oils, vitamin A and fatty acids. The leaves, fruits and bark of the guava tree have been considered effective for medicinal purposes traditionally for treating gastroenteritis, diarrhea and other digestive problems has been proven in various clinical studies. The efficacy of guava leaf extract in diarrhea, gastroenteritis and dysentery treatment is also attributed to its antibacterial properties.

Guava leaves extract also helps to soothe the intestinal smooth muscle, thus hindering the chemical processes present in diarrhea. This soothing nature of the guava leaves extracts facilitates the easy re-absorption of water in the intestines.

Soursop. This evergreen has been recorded as among the list of valuable fruits that are highly beneficial to human health. Both the soursop drink and pulp have been reported to contain reasonable amounts of vitamins, minerals and nutrients that are health-promoting. Both the leaves, stems and barks are equally medicinal in nature.

The fruit and leaves can be used for treating gastrointestinal diseases such as stomach pains and diarrhea. The leaves can be squeezed and decocted in hot water, which is taken as an herbal remedy for stopping diarrhea.

Yarrow. This perennial plant that produces one or multiple stems contains tannins thus effective for stopping diarrhea and dysentery. Yarrow’s sterile and anti-inflammatory features make it effective for treating diarrhea. The yellow yarrow flowers can be infused and taken as a tea.

Visit EmergencyMedicine.newsfor more stories like this.

Watch the following video to learn about medicines worth their weight in gold post-collapse.

This video is from the JRoseland channel on Brighteon.com. More related stories:

Plant-based antimicrobial compounds offer a variety of alternatives to an over-dependence on toxic synthetic antibiotics that are increasingly less effective.

Herbal medicine cabinet: 9 Herbs for wound care.

6 Herbal salves for your prepper medicine cabinet.

6 Tree bark remedies you can use as survival medicine.

Sources include:

PreppersWill.com

NaturalOn.com

MedicalNewsToday.com

Brighteon.com
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UK

Manchester synagogue attack: Families pay tribute to ‘kind and heroic’ victims – as police arrest three more suspects

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Manchester synagogue attack: Families pay tribute to 'kind and heroic' victims - as police arrest three more suspects

The families of the two victims of the Manchester synagogue attack have paid tribute to them as “heroic, beloved and cherished”.

Adrian Daulby, 53, and Melvin Cravitz, 66, were killed in the attack at Heaton Park synagogue in Crumpsall on Thursday.

Mr Daulby, a member of the congregation, was shot accidentally when police opened fire on attacker Jihad al Shamie.

The synagogue’s rabbi told Sky News it happened as Mr Daulby “was holding the doors to make sure everyone inside stayed safe”.

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Hero held doors closed to keep everyone safe, rabbi says

His family said he was a “hero” and a “lovely down-to-earth man” whose “final act was one of profound courage and he will forever be remembered for his heroic act”.

The family of Mr Cravitz – a security guard at the synagogue who was attending the service – said he would “do anything to help anyone”.

“He was so kind, caring and always wanted to chat and get to know people,” they said.

“He was devoted to his wife, family and loved his food. He will be sorely missed by his wife, family, friends and community.”

Adrian Daulby. Pic: Family handout
Image:
Adrian Daulby. Pic: Family handout

The tributes came as police said three more people – a man and two women – had been arrested on suspicion of terror offences, bringing the total to six.

They also revealed the attacker had been on bail over a suspected rape, but wasn’t on the radar of counter-terror police.

The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) is investigating the shooting – standard practice when a member of the public is killed.

The investigation would include “whether police may have caused or contributed to the death” of Mr Daulby.

Sir Stephen Watson, the head of Greater Manchester police, confirmed Mr Daulby’s injury appeared to be “a tragic and unforeseen consequence of the urgently required action taken by my officers”.

‘Gentle giant’

Other relatives of Mr Cravitz told Sky News he was a “gentle giant” who “would never harm a fly”.

His cousin, Phil Bentley, said his death was even more tragic as he would never normally be at the synagogue that early.

Melvin Cravitz. Pic: GMP
Image:
Melvin Cravitz. Pic: GMP

Hindi Cohen, a friend and neighbour, said he was a “lovely man” with a good sense of humour, adding: “Our kids loved him. He called himself uncle Melvin to my kids.”

One of Mr Daulby’s neighbours was also emphatic in his praise for a man he lived next door to for 20 years.

Abdul Rahimi called him “one of the best guys I’ve ever seen in my life” and a “very, very good man”, who often bought books and toys for children on their street.

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Synagogue attack victim was a ‘fantastic guy’

Another neighbour, Waqas Hussain, said the pair bonded over a shared love of nature, animals and birds.

He said Mr Daulby was a cancer survivor, who lived alone and started going to the synagogue more after his father died a few years ago.

“Just one of them people… so innocent, so approachable and so pure,” he told Sky News.

He said his friend hadn’t been fasting for health reasons and was debating whether or not to go the synagogue on Thursday.

Increased police patrols are being put in place near synagogues across the country following the atrocity.

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Manchester attacker – what we know

Lammy heckled at vigil

Police in London and Manchester have urged people not to hold planned protests in the cities this weekend so they can keep officers free.

A vigil for the victims was also held in Manchester on Friday – but Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy walked out to shouts of “shame on you” and boos from a few in the crowd.

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Deputy PM heckled at vigil

“Go to Palestine but leave us alone,” one person shouted.

Another protester shouted “my children’s school was closed today – you allowed this to happen.”

Read more:
Ex-minister says father-in-law was at synagogue attack
Attacker’s family condemn ‘heinous act’

Thirty-five-year-old Jihad al Shamie was named as the attacker on Thursday and is believed to be of Syrian descent.

He is understood to have been granted British citizenship when he was around 16, having entered the UK as a young child.

Police shot him dead seven minutes after the first emergency call as they feared he was wearing an explosive device – later identified as a fake.

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Timeline: How terror attack unfolded

Three men also remain in hospital after the attack, with two of them named as Yoni Finlay and Andrew Franks.

One suffered a stab wound, a second was hurt after being hit by a car that al Shamie is said to have driven towards the synagogue, and the third suffered a gunshot wound.

One of the injured victims was working for the Community Security Trust (CST), a charity which provides security to the Jewish community.

Its chief executive, Mark Gardner, said: “One of our CST personnel was seriously injured in yesterday’s terror attack at Heaton Park Synagogue.

“We pray for his continuing recovery and salute the courage of all those who helped stop the terrorist from getting into the shul.”

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Politics

Coinbase goes after National Trust Charter — But don’t call it a bank

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Coinbase goes after National Trust Charter — But don’t call it a bank

Coinbase goes after National Trust Charter — But don’t call it a bank

Coinbase said seeking the license is part of its broader effort to bridge the gap between crypto and traditional finance.

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Entertainment

Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs sentenced to more than four years in prison

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Sean 'Diddy' Combs sentenced to more than four years in prison

Sean “Diddy” Combs has been sentenced to more than four years in prison over prostitution charges relating to his former girlfriends and male sex workers.

Judge Arun Subramanian handed down his 50-month sentence – including a $500,000 fine – at the end of a long and emotional full-day hearing, which saw the hip-hop mogul speak out for the first time in court.

Combs, 55, admitted his past behaviour was “disgusting, shameful and sick”, and apologised personally to Cassie Ventura and “Jane”, another former girlfriend who testified anonymously during the trial.

Sean Diddy Combs broke down and cried at one point during the sentencing hearing. Pic: AP/ Elizabeth Williams
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Sean Diddy Combs broke down and cried at one point during the sentencing hearing. Pic: AP/ Elizabeth Williams

But despite his plea for “mercy” and expressions of remorse, the judge told him he had abused his “power and control” with women he professed to love – and rejected the defence’s characterisation that “freak off” sexual encounters were consensual experiences, that his was just a “sex, drugs and rock’n’roll story”.

Addressing Cassie and “the other brave survivors who came forward”, the judge said. “We heard you… I can only say your families are proud of you and your children will be proud of you.

“You weren’t just talking to the jury you were talking to the women who feel powerless – you gave them a voice, you stood up to power, it’s not easy.”

Combs showed no visible change of emotion as his sentence was delivered, looking straight ahead as the judge spoke. Afterwards, he seemed subdued – with no sign of the enthusiasm or feeling showed earlier in the day.

Six of Combs's children, including Chance, right, and twins Jessie and D'Lila Star, addressed the judge in support of their father. Pic: AP/Richard Drew
Image:
Six of Combs’s children, including Chance, right, and twins Jessie and D’Lila Star, addressed the judge in support of their father. Pic: AP/Richard Drew

Ahead of his own speech, the court heard from six of his seven children – causing the rapper to break down in tears as they spoke about how much they loved him, how he has changed, and how much they and their younger two-year-old sister need him.

The sentencing brings to an end a sordid case that featured harrowing testimony – not just from Cassie and Jane, but also from former employees and associates of Combs.

He was convicted in July of flying people around the US and abroad for sexual encounters, including his then girlfriends and male sex workers, in violation of prostitution laws.

However, he was cleared of more serious charges of racketeering conspiracy and sex-trafficking that could have put him in jail for life.

‘I hate myself right now’

Diddy cried as his children read impact statements. Pic: Reuters/Jane Rosenberg
Image:
Diddy cried as his children read impact statements. Pic: Reuters/Jane Rosenberg

On the eve of his sentencing, Combs submitted a letter to the judge pleading for “mercy” and apologising for the “hurt and pain” he has caused others.

He expanded on this in court, saying he wanted to “personally apologise” to Cassie for “any harm” he caused her “emotionally or physically”, and to Jane – and all victims of domestic violence.

He told the court he got “lost in my excess and lost in my ego”, but since his time in prison he has been “humbled and broken to my core”.

Combs continued: “I hate myself right now… I am truly sorry for it all.”

Read more:
The rise and fall of Diddy
Diddy sentencing: As it happened

Janice Combs supported her son in court. Pic: AP Photo/Eduardo Munoz Alvarez
Image:
Janice Combs supported her son in court. Pic: AP Photo/Eduardo Munoz Alvarez

Once one of the most influential hip-hop producers of the 1990s and 2000s – the founder of Bad Boy Records and a Grammy-winning artist in his own right – he has led a very different life since his high-profile arrest.

He was facing a maximum of 20 years in prison for the prostitution-related charges, so the sentence is towards the lower end of the scale.

Prosecutors had argued he should spend at least 11 years behind bars, while Combs’s lawyers were calling for him to be freed almost immediately due to time already served since his arrest just over a year ago.

Christy Slavik, for the prosecution, told the judge sparing the rapper serious prison time would excuse years of violence.

‘Make the most of that second chance’

Judge Arun Subramanian told Combs he will still have a life after prison if he takes his second chance. Pic: Elizabeth Williams via AP
Image:
Judge Arun Subramanian told Combs he will still have a life after prison if he takes his second chance. Pic: Elizabeth Williams via AP

The judge, who had rejected bail for the rapper several times before sentencing, told him that he would get through his time in prison. It will be hard, he said, but he will still “have a life afterwards”.

Combs has “a chance for renewal and redemption”, he added. “What went wrong can be made right… I am counting on you to make the most of that second chance.”

Outside the courthouse, journalists and onlookers swarmed the pavements as TV crews stood in a long row across the street, echoing scenes from the two-month high-profile trial.

It included four days of testimony from Cassie, now Cassie Ventura Fine, who told the court she was coerced and sometimes blackmailed into sexual encounters with male sex workers, referred to as “freak offs”.

Cassie responds

Diddy and Cassie at the premiere for a film she starred in, just days after the 2016 hotel incident. Pic: zz/Galaxy/STAR MAX/IPx/ AP
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Diddy and Cassie at the premiere for a film she starred in, just days after the 2016 hotel incident. Pic: zz/Galaxy/STAR MAX/IPx/ AP

Jurors were also shown video clips of Combs dragging and beating her in a Los Angeles hotel hallway after one of those sessions in 2016.

Combs referred to this in court, saying it was a “heavy burden” that he will forever carry, and that he was “sick from drugs” and “out of control” at the time, “lost in my excess and lost in my ego”.

Ahead of the sentencing, Cassie also submitted a letter to the judge, calling Combs a “manipulator” and saying she would fear for her safety should he be immediately released.

Responding to the sentence, her lawyers Douglas Wigdor and Meredith Firetog (Wigdor LLP), said: “While nothing can undo the trauma caused by Combs, the sentence imposed today recognises the impact of the serious offences he committed.

“We are confident that with the support of her family and friends, Ms Ventura will continue healing knowing that her bravery and fortitude have been an inspiration to so many.”

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