well being

Home remedies

Do-it-yourself cures for common ailments

By Julie Young

Hoping to avoid a pharmacy run the next time sickness strikes? Prefer a natural remedy to chemical compounds? The cure for common ailments may be as close as your kitchen cabinet! Home remedies have been used for years to help combat everything from the common cold to a variety of other aches and pains, and while they should not be used as a substitute for professional care*, these tried-and-true methods can help the healing process.

Seasonal solutions

Gregg Russell and his team at Fort Wayne Custom RX suggest several herbs that have shown to prevent problems before they start or alleviate symptoms when they show up. A few herbs to keep on hand include:

Lavender: Often used to combat sports-related injuries, two-to-three drops of lavender oil to affected areas can relieve arthritis, take the sting out of insect bites, and improve rheumatoid symptoms. Lavender has also been used as a sleep aid and can help fight chronic headaches and migraines. Parsley: More than a garnish, parsley tea can help empty the bowels, relieve menstrual pain, flatulence, and cystitis. Parsley has also been shown to help lower blood pressure, and its leaves can prevent kidney issues before they start.

Common Mallow:

Known as the fighter of infections, common mallow’s leaves and roots can be used to make a poultice or compress that can eliminate infection while healing wounds and sores. Common Mallow may be added to burdock, comfrey, clay, and charcoal poultices to fight uterine infections, as well.

Fabulous foods

There are also several ordinary food items that can help forestall illness, boost the healing process, and get you on the road to recovery. Stock up now for the season ahead so that you can get a jump on symptoms when they show up.

Honey: In addition to having an array of antioxidants that can help protect your body from cell damage, honey can also kill unwanted bacteria and fungus because it naturally contains hydrogen peroxide. Store-bought honey is also used to soothe a sore throat while the medical grade variety can be used to kill germs on wounds and aid in tissue regeneration. Do not give to children under the age of 1. Papaya: Commonly called “the disease chaser,” papaya is beneficial in combatting heartburn and indigestion by breaking down most yeast glutens while providing you with essential vitamins and minerals to help promote this function. Papaya tablets taken daily can alleviate problems with trouble foods. Onion: Onion is a common food ingredient that helps improve appetite, reduce atherosclerosis, fight coughs and colds, as well as bronchitis and asthma. It has also been shown to suppress harmful bacteria in the colon, but most health benefits are typically seen after prolonged use.

Chicken soup: Grandma was right. Chicken soup is not only good for the soul but also helps with cold and flu symptoms, such as nasal congestion, breaking up a cough and soothing the stomach!

* Consult your physician before adopting any natural remedy to combat a medical condition.

Resource:

Fort Wayne Custom RX, fwcustomrx.com