In a time where there are a lot of quick fix medication and endless wellness trends its easy to forget that many of effective remedies are already sitting in our kitchens and gardens .For generations and generations the people relied on on nature to provide herbs and ingredients that treat common ailments , soothe discomfort and support overall health even in modern day science is promoting the use of these remedies as they are cheap , reliable , readily available and have no side effects
WHY HOME REMEDIES DESERVE A SECOND LOOK
Before the rise of so many pharmaceuticals the people in the world turned to nature when looking for healing and health , and simple preparations to manage health and many of these home remedies were passed down through time and have been validated through time
In the modern day research has uncovered that bioactive compounds in herbs , food and household items act on the body from antimicrobial property to anti inflammatory property .This doesnt mean when medical care is necessary it must be neglected but it helps reduce the visits to health care facilities
1.HONEY :ITS MORE THAN A SWEETENER
How it works -raw honey contains enzymes , antioxidants and natural anti non beneficial microbials , it inhibits the growth of harmful bacteria and assists in the healing wounds
USES
.COUGH AND SORE THROAT :A spoonful of honey especially dark honey can coat soothe the throat and reduce throat irritation .IN some cases honey is more effective than some of the cough syrups especially in children who are over the age of one
.MINOR BURNS AND CUTS : Applying honey on a wound can really help keep the wound moist and may promote fast healing
It is highly recommended to avoid giving honey to infant below 12 months due to the risk of causing botulism in children
2.GINGER : THE NAUSEA AND PAIN TAMER
HOW IT WORKS : Ginger provides gingerol which is a compound which is an anti-inflammatory , has an anti nausea effect and is an antioxidant
USES
.PAIN RELIEF :The regular consumption of of ginger helps reduce post exercise muscle soreness , reduces after pain of an injury and even reduces cramps in woman during their cycles
.DIGESTIVE SUPPORT :Ginger tea or small ginger pierces help ease nausea from pregnancy , mild ingestion and from motion sickness
3.GARLIC:NATURES ANTIMICROBIAL
HOW IT WORKS :When garlic is crushed it releases , allicin , a compound with potent antimicrobial and immune support properties
USES
IMMUNE SUPPORT :Consumption of garlic in meals or directly helps the body to fight common colds . The regular consumption of garlic leads to reduced flue attacks and fast recover when not healthy
HEART HEALTH :The long term intake on garlic supports healthy blood pressure and balances cholesterol levels
4.ALOE VERA :SKIN AND GUT SOOTHER
HOW IT WORKS : Aloe contains polysaccharides and antioxidants that reduce inflammation and support tissue repair
USES
.DIGESTIVE HEALTH :Small amounts of aloe vera are traditionally used to support gut regularity of the gut and also cleanses the skin
.MINOR SKIN IRRITATION AND SUNBURN :Application of fresh aloe gel provides hydration to the skin and speeds up healing and tissue repair
5.OATMEAL:GENTLE RELIEF FOR THE SKIN
HOW IT WORKS :Colloidal oatmeal binds the skin well forming a protective barrier while delivering anti inflammatory compounds called avenanthramides
USES
.ECZEMA , RASHES AND ITCHINESS :Apply the oatmeal on the face as a scrub or paste and it helps to soothe the skin and reduce irritation
.DRYNESS: Oatmeal scrubs lock in moisture and calm sensitive skin
6.PEPPERMINT :COOLING THE GUT AND HEAD
HOW IT WORKS :The peppermint relaxes the smooth muscles and produces a cooling sensation in the head
USES
.HEADACHE RELIEF :Applying diluted peppermint oil to the mints can aid the production of a cooling effect that eases tension
headaches
.DEGISTIVE UPSETS :Peppermint tea helps to relieve bloating , gas , and mild irritable bowel symptoms
SAFETY MEASURES
While most home remedies are gentle and natural that does not make them all risk free and the guidelines to keep in mind are
.CHECK FOR ALLERGIES :Before trying out a new remedy best first confirm that you have no allergies towards the product
.Seek medical assistance :in cases where there are serious persistent symptoms .Home remedies are mild , self limiting condition or as complementary support
.Consult a health care provider :when pregnant , nursing , have a chronic condition and take medication best consult before taking the remedies
.Use informed doses :large amounts don’t mean fast healing so its best to stick to recommended doses