Instead of taking medicine the next time you have a headache or heartburn, try some natural remedies that you can find in your kitchen at home! Some of the same herbs and spices that you use to flavor your meals can be useful as natural health treatments. Keep reading for natural ways to fix heartburn, headaches, and more.
For Heartburn Ease the burning with turmeric. This ancient spice is a key ingredient in curry and can help stimulate the digestive system to prevent acid buildup. Add turmeric to your next meal or try taking it in capsule form before eating.
For Headaches If you have a splitting headache, try brewing a cup of rosemary tea. Rosemary helps to keep blood vessels dilated. Add 1 teaspoon of rosemary per cup of hot water, c over it, and steep for 10 minutes. Strain and enjoy a cup three times a day.
You can also use ginger to alleviate headaches. Ginger inhibits thromboxane A2 which prevents the release of substances that cause blood vessels to dilate. It can help keep blood flowing in order to prevent migraines. For a quick kitchen cure, grate fresh ginger into juice or water, chew on Japanese pickled ginger, use fresh or powdered ginger on your meals, or nibble on a piece of crystallized ginger candy.
For Sinus Pain or Pressure When your mucus is clear or white, you should seek a drying herb such as thyme. Thyme is a strong antiseptic and is a traditional remedy for respiratory infections. To enjoy a cup of thyme tea, steep 1 to 2 teaspoons of dried thyme in a cup of boiling water for about 10 minutes, three times a day.
For Insect Bites or Stings
Use a drop of peppermint essential oil on the center of a bite or sting to cause quick, cooling relief. Peppermint helps to increase blood flow to the bite or sting area so you suffer from less swelling and itching. Remember to always wash your hands when handling essential oils and keep them away from your eyes. (Poisonous spider or snake bites require immediate medical attention.)
For Toothaches Rub a drop of clove essential oil directly on an aching tooth for pain relief. If you don't have oil of clove available you can also rub a whole clove, flower end pointed down, next to your tooth for the same effect.
Sesame seeds are also known for being pain-relievers. You can boil one part sesame seeds with three parts water until the liquid is reduced by half. Cool the water and apply it directly to your aching tooth.
For Cold and Flu For quick and convenient relief from your next cold or flu, combine 1 oz of sliced fresh ginger, 1 broken-up cinnamon stick, 1 teaspoon coriander seeds, 3 whole cloves, 1 lemon slice, and 1 pint water. Simmer for 15 minutes, strain, then drink a hot cupful every 2 hours.
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