When you’re suffering from common ailments, it may be tempting to run to the corner drug store for a remedy but you may not have to look beyond your kitchen cupboard to find relief. Just as our ancestors often did, relying on natural remedies can provide as much relief as manufactured products. There are many uses for the items that are probably already in your kitchen cabinet or spice rack which serve a purpose outside of the kitchen.
Baking Soda Remedies
Baking soda has several uses beyond neutralizing smells and acting as a levening agent in recipes. Baking soda can be used as a remedy for acid reflux by simply dissolving 1/2 teaspoon in 4 ounces of water. Take tablespoon-sized sips until symptoms are relieved. While this can be a very effective remedy for acid reflux, you should not ingest more than 3 teaspoons of baking soda in a day and those who are pregnant, nursing, on a restricted diet or taking regular medication should not drink dissolved baking soda without first consulting their doctor. Also avoid baking soda antacids if your stomach is full or distended.
Another useful purpose for baking soda is to treat a rash caused by insect bites and poison ivy. Mix baking soda with water at a ratio of 3 parts baking soda to 1 part water until a paste is formed. Apply the paste over the bug bite or rash to relieve itching. Apply several times a day until the symptoms subside. Remember that some insect bites, especially spiders and bee stings, can trigger an allergic reaction in some people. If symptoms aside from itching and swelling occur, such as severe swelling, hives, or difficulty breathing, consult a doctor right away.
Ginger, Lemon and Honey
Lemon juice and honey make an excellent combination for a tea that soothes a sore throat and cough. Honey helps soothe and also has antibacterial properties that could be beneficial. Mix 1 to 2 teaspoons of honey and 1 teaspoon of lemon juice in hot tea and drink. Do not give honey to children under the age of 2.
Ginger may be a valuable spice when it comes to scrumptious pumpkin pies but ginger has long been valued for its antispasmodic properties. Placing a teaspoon of ground ginger in with lemon and honey tea can provide relief from a cough by relaxing irritated muscles. Ginger tea is also helpful for relieving menstrual cramps. If you have ginger ale on hand, it’s a ready-made remedy for nausea but you can also drink ginger tea for relief.
Peppermint Extract
While many people are familiar with the scent and taste of peppermint, its health benefits sometimes go unnoticed. Peppermint tea, for example, has a very soothing effect on stomach upset caused by gas and bloating. Peppermint also has a way of relieving congestion in the head, nose and chest. Place 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of peppermint extract in hot tea and inhale the steam before drinking.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is a common pantry ingredient but it also can be a real treat when suffering from dry, cracked, and chapped winter skin. To soothe dry, itchy skin, rub olive oil onto hands and feet and cover with socks or gloves for at least one hour. To treat the entire body, place 5 to 10 drops of olive oil in bath water. Be careful when exiting the bath as the tub will become quite slippery until properly rinsed.
Vinegar
Vinegar has many health benefits and is a great treatment for accidental sunburn. Though the smell may be a turn off, try rubbing areas affected by sunburn with a cotton ball soaked in vinegar. It will soothe the burning and help the skin heal faster. Some people recommend ingesting apple cider vinegar as a remedy for digestive problems, high blood pressure, sinus infections, and other ailments. The taste and smell of apple cider vinegar is likely going to repel your taste buds but making a vinegarette salad dressing for regular consumption is one way to reap the benefits of ingesting vinegar.
Garlic
Garlic has seen many uses as a herbal remedy over the years. Garlic has impressive qualities and health benefits when eaten as a dietary supplement but garlic is also useful in common home remedies. A fresh, halved garlic clove applied to insect bites can help soothe and quickly heal the area. For ear pain, wrap a small piece of garlic in a tissue and gently insert into the outer ear. Leave it in place for several hours to help alleviate ear infection pain until you can see a doctor.Try minced garlic and melted butter over toast or chopped garlic as a garnish for soup to help clear nasal congestion caused by colds and allergies.
Though there are many other natural remedies that can be made with the things in your kitchen cupboards, these are just a few suggestions. Though these remedies have been reported to work for many people, they are in no way intended to be a substitute for medical treatment. Always use common sense when deciding between home remedies and professional medical attention.
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