Slash Your Medical Bills With Natural Remedies
Antibiotic resistance is a hot topic in the media. Recently, Prof. Dame Sally Davies warned that if we don’t act, routine surgeries could become deadly within 20 years, like in the 19th century. Another expert, Professor Les Baillie from Cardiff University, is exploring whether old-school remedies like tea and honey could tackle superbugs. Tea has polyphenols that can kill bacteria, and raw Manuka honey is known for its antibacterial properties.
With medical costs rising in our tough economy, using natural remedies could benefit more than just fighting superbugs. There are many ailments you can prevent and treat at home with natural ingredients, saving you money while benefiting your health.
The Huffington Post highlighted Caribbean remedies using plants for healing. Dr. Gilbertha St. Rose, a dermatologist and herbalist from St. Lucia, noted that people have used herbs, spices, and plants for pain relief and illness prevention for decades.
**Bicarbonate of Soda: A Versatile Remedy**
Keep bicarbonate of soda handy for various health issues. It can soothe stings and bites, help remove splinters, and treat jellyfish stings when mixed with vinegar. It’s great for Athlete’s foot and sore feet when used as a soak. As a denture cleanser, heartburn reliever, throat gargle, and facial cleanser, bicarbonate of soda is incredibly versatile. It also works as a deodorant and dry shampoo, absorbing moisture and odors.
**Healing Powers of Honey**
Honey has been a medicinal staple since ancient times. Manuka honey, especially, is known for its health benefits and cancer-fighting properties. Mix honey with raw garlic for a potent antiviral remedy, or use it alone for digestive issues and ulcer symptoms. Honey is also effective on wounds and burns, and can treat fungal infections like Athlete’s foot and thrush. Combined with lemon and ginger, it soothes sore throats and coughs, and local honey may ease hayfever. It’s also believed to help asthmatics and aid digestion.
**Beneficial Herbs**
Herbs can do more than flavor your food; they can also improve your health. Herb teas, oils, or infusions can treat various ailments. Rosemary and peppermint oils are great for massaging sore muscles, while lavender helps with headaches and sleep. Basil tea calms the mind and aids in digestion, and chamomile does the same. Peppermint and fennel teas relieve digestive discomfort, and basil tea can even ease migraines. Nettle tea is good for urinary tract infections.
**Medicinal Spices**
Spices have significant health benefits when used correctly. Ginger is famous for easing nausea and settling upset stomachs. Use ginger in tea, biscuits, or lozenges, or as a compress for pain relief. Turmeric is a strong antiseptic for skin wounds, and juniper tea helps with colds. Cardamom mixed with honey can relieve vomiting.
**The Benefits of Yogurt**
Yogurt isn’t just for digestion; it’s a great protein and calcium source and benefits most people when added to the diet. It aids digestion, reduces IBS symptoms, and boosts immunity. Yogurt can soothe sunburns, treat pimples, and help with yeast infections when consumed or applied directly.
Natural remedies can be found all around your home. Next time you’re feeling unwell, consider skipping the pharmacy and trying these cost-effective, home-based solutions instead.
