Magic Meds
When you're feeling under the weather, reaching for medication may seem like the only option. But did you know that there are many natural remedies available in your home that you can try before taking medicine? It's not really magic but this is the stuff we've used for thousands of years and it simply can't hurt. Here are some of the top natural remedies that you can use to alleviate symptoms and promote healing.
Garlic cooked in oil for ear infections:
Garlic is known for its antibacterial and antiviral properties, making it an effective remedy for ear infections. To use this remedy, heat a few cloves of garlic in olive oil until they're soft. Strain the garlic out and apply a few drops of the oil to the affected ear. You can repeat this process a few times a day until the infection subsides.
Oil in Your ears (on a swing):
Another way to alleviate ear infections is to tilt your head to the side and apply a few drops of warm oil into the affected ear. Gently move your head back and forth, allowing the oil to coat the ear canal. This will help to reduce pain and inflammation.
Sliced onion taped to Your Feet with A plastic bag around it:
Onions have been used for centuries to treat respiratory illnesses, including colds and the flu. To use this remedy, slice an onion and place it on the soles of your feet. Cover the onion slices with plastic wrap and put on a pair of socks. Leave the onion slices on for a few hours or overnight. This remedy helps to open up the chest and relieve congestion.
Eat garlic for its antibiotic properties:
Garlic is known to have natural antibiotic properties that can help fight off infections. Eating a few cloves of garlic daily can help boost your immune system and promote healing.
Garlic on an infected wound:
Applying crushed garlic to an infected wound can help to fight off bacteria and promote healing. The antibacterial properties of garlic make it a natural and effective remedy for treating infected wounds.
Cut onion in natural honey
Honey has natural antibacterial properties and can help to soothe a sore throat and cough. To make an onion and honey remedy, cut an onion into small pieces and place them in a jar of honey. Let the mixture sit for 24 hours before consuming a spoonful when you have the flu or a cold.
Onion peel Bandaids:
There's a thin membrane in every onion right inside the peel. One side of that membrane sticks to your skin. If you ever get a cut (while cutting an onion for irony's sake) take that membrane and place the sticky side over the wound and watch it heal!
Sleep:
Getting enough sleep is essential for your overall health and well-being. When you're feeling sick, try to get plenty of rest and sleep to allow your body to heal.
Water:
Drinking plenty of water is essential for staying hydrated and flushing toxins out of your system. Drinking water can help to alleviate symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, and digestive issues.
Intermittent fasting:
Intermittent fasting is a popular natural remedy that can help to boost the immune system and promote healing. Fasting for short periods of time can help to reduce inflammation and improve overall health.
Ginger:
Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it an effective remedy for a variety of ailments. Drinking ginger tea or adding ginger to your meals can help to reduce inflammation, alleviate nausea, and promote healing. If you have the guts, just take a bite of ginger root. It's tough on the taste buds but worth it in the end.
Eucalyptus oil:
Eucalyptus oil has a soothing effect on the respiratory system and can help to relieve congestion and coughing. You can add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to a bowl of hot water and inhale the steam, or you can apply it topically to your chest or throat.
Honey and cinnamon:
A mixture of honey and cinnamon can help to alleviate symptoms of the common cold and flu. Mix a teaspoon of honey with a pinch of cinnamon and take it two to three times a day.
Turmeric:
Turmeric is a natural anti-inflammatory and can help to alleviate symptoms of arthritis, joint pain, and other inflammatory conditions. You can add turmeric to your meals or take a turmeric supplement.
Aloe vera:
Aloe vera has soothing and healing properties and can be used topically to treat burns, cuts, and other skin irritations. You can also drink aloe vera juice to help soothe digestive issues and promote overall health.
Potatoes:
Potatoes are a versatile and widely available vegetable that can be used for a variety of purposes, including as a natural remedy for various ailments. Here are some of the remedies and medicines that potatoes can provide:
Skin care: Potatoes contain vitamin C, which can help to brighten and even out the skin tone, as well as potassium, which can help to hydrate and moisturize the skin. You can slice a potato and place the slices on your face for a few minutes to help reduce puffiness and dark circles.
Digestive health: Potatoes are rich in fiber, which can help to promote digestive health and prevent constipation. They also contain resistant starch, which can help to feed the beneficial bacteria in your gut. Eating boiled or mashed potatoes can be a gentle and effective remedy for digestive issues.
Inflammation: Potatoes contain anti-inflammatory compounds that can help to reduce inflammation in the body. Applying grated raw potato to a sore joint or inflamed area can help to reduce pain and swelling.
Blood pressure: Potatoes are rich in potassium, which can help to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease. Eating boiled or baked potatoes can be a good way to get this important nutrient into your diet.
Cough and sore throat: Potatoes contain mucilage, a sticky substance that can help to soothe coughs and sore throats. You can make a potato poultice by grating a raw potato and placing it in a cloth, then applying it to the throat or chest.
Skin irritations: Potatoes can be used to treat various skin irritations, including sunburns, rashes, and insect bites. Applying grated raw potato or potato juice to the affected area can help to reduce itching and inflammation.
Kidney stones: Drinking potato juice can help to dissolve kidney stones and prevent their formation. Simply blend a raw potato with some water and drink the mixture once a day.
Potatoes can also be a helpful natural remedy for minor burns because they contain anti-inflammatory and soothing compounds that can help to reduce pain, swelling, and redness. Here's how to use potatoes for burns:
Clean the burn: Before using any home remedy, it's important to clean the affected area with cool water and a mild soap. This will help to remove any dirt or debris and reduce the risk of infection.
Cut a potato: Slice a raw potato into thin pieces, or cut it into thin strips or cubes.
Apply the potato: Place the potato slices or cubes directly onto the burn. You can also wrap the potato in a clean cloth and apply it to the burn. Make sure the potato is in direct contact with the burn.
Hold in place: Hold the potato in place with a clean cloth or bandage. You can leave the potato on the burn for up to 30 minutes, or until the pain and swelling subside.
Repeat as needed: You can repeat this process several times a day, as needed, to help reduce pain and inflammation.
Alternatively, you can also use grated potato to make a poultice. Grate a raw potato and apply it directly to the burn, then wrap it in a clean cloth and hold in place for 30 minutes.
Heads up:
It's important to consult with your healthcare provider before using any natural remedies, especially if you have a chronic health condition or are taking medication. And if you need to go to the emergency room, don't wait to strap an onion to your foot.