by Kristy Ramirez
When most of us look back at Grandma’s natural remedies, we tend to laugh. Mostly because some of them seemed so utterly bizarre and far fetched that we just figured the pharmacy probably knows best.
Well, that is not always the case, as Native Americans, Asians, Hindus and many other cultures were keenly aware. Mother nature provides for what we need, in plentiful amounts and usually very easy to access.
Remember, the pharmaceutical and medical industries are profit minded, and will not always tell you the natural methods to heal or cure, nor will they choose the method that is the least expensive. They want to sell those over the counter and prescription medications. The industry makes a fortune on sickness.
There are safer ways to help ailments and illness that don’t require you running to the drug store, or even spending more than a few bucks. And they work! Well, at least they work for some of us, and giving it a try couldn’t hurt, except to save you a few dollars.
Cinnamon for Natural Pain Relief
Cinnamon is one of the herbs and spices that are known to help with pain, whether it is a headache or cramps. We all have some sitting around somewhere, but the tea is easiest to consume.
Cinnamon is known to help with chronic pain and inflammation, and without the expensive painkillers, or the threat of addiction. Remember that some over-the-counter pain medications have been recalled more than once. It is better to try the safer method first.
It tastes wonderful in a tea, and it can also help improve circulation. It is also a natural cancer preventer and helps women with yeast infections.
Aloe Vera and Honey for Abrasions
Whether it is a burn, cut, scrape or even rug burns, they happen to all of us – some more regularly than others, but there are natural remedies that will heal the wound quickly and inexpensively.
After cleaning with soap and water, give that cut or abrasion a layer of Aloe Vera. Aloe is a widely available plant and can be grown easily in the home or outdoors, depending on your climate. It’s known as an anti-inflammatory and antibacterial wonder. And it is great for sunburns as well.
Honey is a great remedy too because it is also a natural disinfectant, and helps clean out the wound, as well as keeping the wound moist to encourage healing.
Chamomile for Insomnia
Can’t sleep? This is a problem for many people who try to function daily on just a few hours. It’s difficult after a week or two, and most of us seek medicine to help.
But chamomile is proven to help you sleep, and also decrease anxiety, and help with digestion. You can find chamomile tea at any store, and best of all, it’s inexpensive and can be stored for use at another time.
Eucalyptus Oil for Nasal Congestion
This affects millions of people whether it is from a cold, allergies, hay fever or just dust in the air. Even though it is sometimes just more annoying than anything else, people spend billions of dollars on nasal decongestants.
One of the best natural remedies is a hot shower. The steam opens up the sinuses and allows your nasal passages to relax. If you don’t have time for a shower, boil a pot of water and breathe in the steam (carefully!).
Also, another great remedy is eucalyptus oil. Yes, it’s a little more difficult to obtain, unless you live in an area abundant with eucalyptus trees, but you can use it to clear lungs and nasal passages. It not only clears them but also heals raw and irritated lungs and nostrils.
The oil of eucalyptus can be found in Vicks Vapor Rub and other cold remedies, so might as well use the real thing!
Peppermint or Ginger for Digestive Disorders
Whether you get digestive orders regularly, such as indigestion, heartburn, bloating, nausea, loss of appetite or even severe pain, there is something that can help.
First, make certain that you aren’t lactose intolerant because just eliminating milk and dairy can alleviate this ailment. Test yourself and do without milk or dairy for an entire week and see if the problem takes care of itself.
If that isn’t the problem then right after a meal, drink peppermint tea, which is an excellent soother, or Chamomile tea works well too.
Ginger tea helps with more than just indigestion, but the best remedy is to eat smaller meals, and avoid late night eating. Avoid spicy foods and limit your coffee and alcoholic drinks.
Whatever ails you – remember there are remedies in nature that can help you, for much less money, and without the harmful side effects. It takes a bit of research, but research doesn’t cost your health or your pocketbook.
(Kristy Ramirez is a freelance health and finance writer for Life Insurance Finder where you can find helpful tips on diseases and health conditions for life insurance.)
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