It’s easy to dismiss homemade remedies as poor, ineffective substitutes for pharmaceutical products. But you may be surprised to learn that science says many of these DIY solutions are highly effective. This list reveals 18 homemade remedies that actually work.
Apple Cider Vinegar for Weight Management
If you struggle to lose weight, your food cupboard may hold a surprising solution. Apple cider vinegar contains acetic acid, which, according to Harvard Health, is proven to suppress appetite, increase metabolism, and subsequently help you with weight loss. However, it’s important to dilute the vinegar with water to ensure it doesn’t irritate your throat and stomach.
Honey and Cinnamon for Cough Relief
Honey and cinnamon both have natural antibacterial properties that are known to effectively help soothe sore throats and coughs. All you need to do is mix these two ingredients together in tea or warm water for a tasty, easy drink that will help alleviate irritation and promote healing.
Ginger Tea for Digestive Health
Ginger contains many active compounds, including gingerol, that reduce inflammation in the digestive tract and promote the production of digestive enzymes. This makes ginger tea a great remedy for all kinds of digestive issues, such as bloating, indigestion, and nausea.
Turmeric Paste for Joint Pain
Turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which has analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties. This powerful compound makes turmeric paste an effective remedy for sore, painful, and stiff joints. If you suffer from rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis, this could be worth a try.
Peppermint Oil for Headache Relief
There’s a good reason why peppermint is found in so many healthcare products. As well as being antibacterial and antifungal, peppermint oil has natural analgesic and cooling properties. This makes it an effective antidote for migraines and tension headaches. Inhaling peppermint vapors can also help alleviate nausea.
Eucalyptus Steam Inhalation for Congestion
Eucalyptus oil contains a compound called cineole, which has expectorant properties. This means it’s pretty dang good at loosening mucus, clearing the airways, and helping you breathe more easily. So next time you’re congested, why not try inhaling some refreshing eucalyptus steam?
Aloe Vera Gel for Sunburn Relief
As much as we love warm, sunny days, we’re not a huge fan of the sunburns that come with them. Thankfully, according to Medical News Today, aloe vera gel has cooling and anti-inflammatory properties, which make it a great natural remedy for sunburned skin. It can also help to prevent peeling and moisturize the skin.
Oatmeal Bath for Eczema Relief
An oatmeal bath may sound like a weird TikTok trend, but it’s actually an effective solution to eczema and irritated skin. Colloidal oatmeal has several compounds that help soothe your skin, reduce inflammation, and stop that annoying itching sensation.
Garlic for Immune Support
Science shows that garlic can be a powerful remedy for colds, the flu, and other diseases. But why exactly is that? Garlic contains a compound called allicin, which has immune-boosting and antimicrobial properties. That means garlic both helps prevent illnesses from developing and can reduce the severity of your cold or flu.
Lemon and Honey for Sore Throat
Another great home remedy for colds and the flu is lemon and honey. This dynamic duo works together in perfect harmony, with lemon’s high dose of cold-busting vitamin C and honey’s natural capacity to soothe. Both of these ingredients also have natural antibacterial properties, helping to relieve pain and discomfort.
Baking Soda for Heartburn Relief
Many of us will suffer from heartburn at some point in our lives. But the good news is that an effective antidote can be found in your average kitchen cupboard. Baking soda, also known as sodium bicarbonate, alleviates heartburn symptoms by neutralizing your stomach acid. Simply mix a small amount with water and drink up to enjoy the relief.
Chamomile Tea for Anxiety Relief
Chamomile tea contains several compounds that have anxiolytic and calming effects. This makes it a great natural remedy for people who suffer from anxiety. Drinking a little chamomile tea before bedtime is a good way to induce relaxation and keep your worries at bay.
Tea Tree Oil for Acne Treatment
Most of us will struggle with acne at some point in our lives. But the good news is that you don’t have to rush out to find expensive products that may be damaging to your skin. According to Healthline, tea tree oil has natural anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties that help treat and calm down your acne.
Peppermint Tea for Digestive Relief
Peppermint can be useful for many different health issues, including digestive problems. It is able to relax the muscles in your digestive tract, which relieves symptoms of bloating and indigestion. It can also be beneficial for those who suffer from irritable bowel syndrome.
Green Tea for Weight Loss Support
If you’re trying to lose weight but are sick of weird, unnatural products, it might be time to go back to the basics. Green tea contains compounds called catechins, which are known to boost your metabolism and help you burn calories more easily. It can also help reduce your appetite, making you less likely to overeat.
Epsom Salt Bath for Muscle Relaxation
If you struggle with anxiety, tight muscles, or other forms of tension, Epsom salt baths can be surprisingly beneficial. The warm water helps calm you down and relax your muscles, while the high levels of magnesium in the Epsom salt help replenish low levels in your body.
Cucumber Slices for Puffy Eyes
There’s a good reason why spas are known for putting cucumber slices over your eyes. Cucumber contains flavonoids and antioxidants that can help reduce puffiness and swelling by constricting the blood vessels around your eyes. The cold feeling of refrigerated cucumber can also provide a sense of soothing coolness and relief.
Oregano Oil for Immune Support
Oregano oil contains high amounts of antimicrobial compounds and antioxidants, which both help your body fight infections and strengthen your immune system. Therefore, taking oregano oil supplements can be a good way to help prevent colds, respiratory infections, and other common illnesses.
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