More and more people are turning to natural remedies for common ailments. With rising healthcare costs and potential side effects from medications, it’s no wonder folks are looking to nature for healing.
In this article, we’ll explore scientifically-backed natural remedies for several common ailments that you can try at home.
Soothing a Sore Throat
We’ve all had that scratchy, irritated throat that makes swallowing difficult. Before you reach for the cough syrup, try these remedies:
Natural Sore Throat Remedies
- Saltwater gargle
- Honey
- Chamomile tea
How to Use
- Saltwater Gargle – Stir 1⁄2 teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water. Gargle several times a day.
- Honey – Swallow a spoonful straight or add to tea. Choose raw, unpasteurized honey.
- Chamomile Tea – Steep a chamomile tea bag in hot water for 5-7 minutes. Sip slowly.
Easing Coughs and Congestion
Coughs and congestion can linger for weeks if left untreated. Avoid endless days of hacking and sniffling with these natural remedies:
Natural Cough and Congestion Remedies
- Steam inhalation
- Honey + lemon
- Peppermint tea
How to Use
- Steam – Boil water, drape towel over head, and inhale vapors for 5-10 minutes. Add eucalyptus or menthol oil to amplify effects.
- Honey + Lemon – Mix honey and lemon juice in hot water. Drink up to 3 times daily.
- Peppermint Tea – Steep fresh peppermint leaves in hot water. Inhale vapors as you sip.
Banishing Headaches
Pounding headaches can ruin your whole day. Instead of popping pills, try these natural solutions:
Natural Headache Remedies
- Cold compress
- Peppermint oil
- Stay hydrated
How to Use
- Cold Compress – Apply ice pack or frozen gel pack to head/neck for 10-15 minutes.
- Peppermint Oil – Massage onto temples, forehead, and neck.
- Stay Hydrated – Drink plenty of water. Reduce caffeine.
Settling Upset Stomachs
An upset stomach can really disrupt your day. Try these time-tested natural remedies:
Natural Upset Stomach Remedies
- Ginger
- Fennel seeds
- Apple cider vinegar
How to Use
- Ginger – Make ginger tea or take capsules/candied ginger.
- Fennel Seeds – Chew seeds slowly or make fennel seed tea.
- Apple Cider Vinegar – Mix 2 tsp into water and drink before meals.
Banishing Body Aches
Aches and pains got you down? Say goodbye to muscle soreness with these natural healers:
Natural Pain Relief Remedies
- Epsom salt baths
- Arnica
- Heat/ice
How to Use
- Epsom Salts – Dissolve in warm bath and soak for 15+ minutes.
- Arnica – Apply cream directly to sore areas. Take oral doses as directed.
- Heat/Ice – Use heating pad or ice pack on affected area for 10-15 minutes.
Calming Anxiety
Feeling overwhelmed? Try these herbs and remedies to take the edge off anxiety:
Natural Anti-Anxiety Remedies
- Chamomile – 2-3 cups tea daily
- Valerian – Capsules or tea before bed
- Lemon balm – Tea
- Deep breathing – 10 slow deep breaths through nose
- Guided imagery – Visualize peaceful setting
Eliminating Insomnia
Tossing and turning all night? Try these natural sleep remedies:
Natural Sleep Aids
- Tart cherry juice – Drink 30 mins before bed.
- Magnesium supplements – Take 200-400 mg before bed.
- Essential oils – Lavender, chamomile. Diffuser or topical.
- Unplug – Avoid electronics 1 hour before bed.
- Bedtime routine – Stick to a regular routine.
Conclusion
There you have it – examples of economical, low risk home remedies to tackle common health issues. Natural remedies can be effective for minor ailments, but always discuss severe or persistent symptoms with your healthcare provider.
Maintaining wellness goes beyond treating symptoms. For a comprehensive approach, check out these additional resources:
- A Comprehensive Guide to Managing Stress and Anxiety
- The Benefits of Regular Exercise for Mental Health
- Choosing the Right Diet for You
Let us know which remedies and lifestyle changes worked best to improve your health and wellbeing! By implementing small, sustainable changes, you can overcome common ailments and feel your best.
Disclaimer: The content on this site is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. The content should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website. This site does not recommend or endorse any products. Reliance on any information provided by this site is solely at your own risk.
