Ethnomedicine/Home Remedies/A - C

Aab Nabaat

Aab Nabaat (which translates in Farsi to Candy Water) prevents upset stomachs. In most Middle Eastern countries, old wisdom for remedies base around the premise of balance between cold and warm foods. It is believed that the bacteria that mixes in the stomach from the foods based on their cold or warming effects, is what results in an upset stomach. To counterbalance the cold foods in the stomach, Aab Nabaat is used, balancing the bacteria, which makes you feel ill. The best time to consume Aab Nabaat is whenever you have an upset stomach. It especially helps before bed if you cannot sleep. Aab Nabaat consists of a piece of rock candy (the length of two fingers) stirred into a teacup of boiled water.There are no risks connected to drinking Aab Nabaat unless you are diabetic and watching your sugar-intake because the drink would probably not be smart to consume since it is so sweet.The origin of Aab Nabaat is from the Middle East’s old wisdom for remedies based on balancing hot and cold foods.

Acne Fighting

Acne can be easily prevented or fought using a few simple tips. First of all, careful hygiene practices; regular exfoliation, changing of sheets and pillow case, maintenance of hair and most importantly: proper diet and hydration.These are all natural remedies so there are no side affects to worry about unlike some acne medicines. If you have acne, or would like to prevent it, the following tips are wonderful naturopathic methods for countering such problems.

For the first consideration, the obvious hygiene practices; one must wash their face (at least once a day with soap)and after every time the face has broken a sweat. It is key to never leave sweat on the face, because it harbors bacteria. Moreover, If the face ever feels itchy, it is most likely because there is some form of microscopic creature/bacterium/parasite infecting the skin. As soon as you feel an itch on your face, wash it! The last thing you should do is scratch it with an unclean hand- if you absolutely must scratch, use the back of your hand (the palm side sweats too much and is constantly handling doorknobs and such). However, remember not to wash your face too much (more than twice a day) as this will rid your face of all its natural oils and will produce more oil to compensate for this, resulting in more spots.

Next, rid yourself of any possible facial contact with bacteria or bacteria harboring sweat, dirt, grease and/or oils. Bed sheets should be changed regularly, at least once a week, especially the pillow case! Your pillow case should be flipped after the first night of use, and turned inside out the next night so you have two new clean sides. Also, your hair should be washed before bed so that the oils from your head do not rub off on your pillow case.

In addition to the skin care methods shared above, there are some important aspects of diet one should consider: First, a large intake of water is necessary for keeping the immune system in shape. Eating fiber will help slow water from passing strait through your system, thus, letting it diffuse through the stomach and eventually into the skin, and fruit happens to be the perfect combination of water and fiber. One must also get their daily value of vitamins, A,C and E. This is essential to the maintenance of the immune system, whose function is important for kicking acne. Kyloric acid (garlic) is a good food for your skin partially because its PH level is similar to that of human skin. In addition to adding the aforementioned foods to your diet, you should also refrain from eating too much sugar, for it will damage your immune system.

One basic and easy solution to fighting acne is salt water. Get a small bowl and fill it with water, then put a teaspoon of salt in and mix. Once the salt has dissolved dip a corner of a napkin or a paper towel into the mixture. Place the wet corner on the zit and hold for a few minutes. Repeat of a couple of times. The salt water dries out the zit causing it to shrink and than eventually disappear. Another solution is to put a slice of lemon on top of acne, this to also helps to dry out the zit. Simple sunshine (or tanning beds) can also be good for your skin (in moderation). It will help, like the salt and lemon, to dry those pores out and prevent acne.

Also, Neosporin is a quick and easy way to fight acne. Its antibiotic properties work to heal the inflammation.

Basically- keep clean, eat healthy, and keep those pores dry!!

Toothpaste is a home remedy which helps get rid of unwanted acne fast! If a zit pops up then that night take a little bit of toothpaste and apply it to the zit and sleep on it. The toothpaste helps speed up the drying out of the zit, in turn helping the zit disappear. In reality, you still need to wash your face and keep up with other habits which help keep the face clean but the toothpaste helps in emergency situations!

A very popular Latino home remedy has been used for years to get rid of face acne. This old wives tale to eliminate face acne has in fact proven effective. The first step is to get a fresh lemon and cut it in half. Next you must rub it on your undesired face acne. The last and most important step is to take the lemon and rub it somewhere else on your body, say your leg or arm. The process if transferring the acne from one undesirable place to a less viable place is what essentially gets rid of the acne. Although this remedy may seem unbelievable, it is still used by many Mexican families to this day to get rid of face acne.

African Ginger

Ginger Root

The African Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory remedy. It can also be used to help for many things such as headaches, influenza, mild asthma, throat infections, PMS, menstrual cramps, mood swings, colds, flu & coughs, indigestion, nausea, gas, gastro-intestinal infections, and as a mild sedative. It acts as a circulatory stimulant which can reduce high blood pressure, and can increase sweating to help reduce fevers. I can also help “thin” the blood as well as lower cholesterol, can be taken as a supplement for heartburn, helps with bad breath, relieves vomiting, and helps relieve motion and morning sickness.

In one hospital in London, the herb seemed to be more effective than traditional medicines in relieving poasperative nausea. Research at Cornell University Medical College found that Ginger can prevent recurrences of small strokes, and the hardening of the arteries.

This plant originates in Africa, and is a herb that has been used for generations as a traditional medicine for a range of conditions. The plant has become extinct in Kwa Zulu Natal, and has limited distribution Mpumalanga and the Northern Province because of its use as a medicine and being over-harvested. It contains vitamins B3 and B5 along with many minerals.

In general, the root or rhizome is the part used, and comes in jointed branches called races or hands. To treat asthma, hysteria, colds, coughs, and the flu, the rhizomes and roots are chewed fresh. Women may chew it to help ease women during menstruation. Commonly, a person may take 2 - 4 grams of the dried rhizome powder two to three times per day or a tincture of 1.5 - 3 ml three times daily. When used for nausea, a single dose of about 250 mg every two to three hours (for a total of 1 gram per day) may help. To prevent motion sickness, tablets, capsules, or liquid herbal, extract may be taken up to two days before traveling. When used properly, there are rarely any side-effects. However, it is recommended that pregnant women avoid it.

Airborne

Airborne is a herbal health formula that boosts the immune system to help the body combat germs. It was created by a former second-grade school teacher, Victoria Knight-McDowell, who was constantly exposed to germs in her classroom. Its unique blend of herbal extracts, vitamins, electrolytes, amino acids and antioxidants helps give the body a fighting chance when exposed to germ-filled environments. The tablets are simply added to water to make a fizzy drink. Found in most grocery stores and gas stations it has no side effects and is very effective at keeping colds away.

Alagau

Alagau is a plant commonly used for medicinal purposes in Filipino culture, and found only in the Philippines. A remedy for coughs is as follows: Alagau leaves mixed with a little bit of sugar and a cup of "calamansi" (lemon juice) to be taken in drink-form. This decoction is to be taken as needed (when the cough is at its worst), and due to its effectiveness, duration of use should be no longer than a two to three days. Other home remedies include vaginal irritation, weakness of the stomach, diarrhea, abdominal pains, tympanites, beriberi, parasiticide, and cardiac troubles.

Alka Seltzer

Alka Seltzer is an effervescent to relieve minor aches and pains and most importantly hangovers. it has ingredients to wake you up, get rid of your headache and body aches, and dispel nausea. just dissolve it in water the morning after a night of drinking, when you feel like you can without puking, because it's kind of gross, and watch your hangover melt away. Usually one dose should do the trick, but you might need a second a few hours later for the residual effects. Found pretty much everywhere, grocery stores, drug stores, gas stations.

Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera

Aloe Vera is a short, green plant that grows in dry climates. The plant is most well known for its sap’s healing properties for skin conditions such as burns, cuts, athlete’s foot and eczema in the U.S., but can also be used as a laxative. Aloe’s medicinal purposes have long been discovered and re-discovered in various parts of the world. The first noted finding was in the Egypt and other parts of Africa, where the plant grows most rampant, but evidence shows that ancient Greek doctors may too have used the plant for its soothing properties.

In order for aloe to be effective, the gel needs to be applied directly onto the inflamed skin, though studies are being done to see if oral use of aloe can also heal skin irritations. Aloe should be used several times a day, for multiple days, until the skin is no longer irritated. There is some debate surrounding the use of aloe, whether or not it actually speeds up healing time. Regardless of whether aloe actually heals, it is a natural coolant, providing temporary relief of skin irritation or sunburn. Only one study, done in 1991, found that the use of aloe slowed healing time, but nothing has ever been proven.

The use of Aloe Vera is a very common in the Western society.

Alum Powder

The common household spice Alum Powder, which is usually used in cooking, can be used to get rid of canker sores. Apply the powder to the sore and let dry for a couple of minutes, this may be painful. They key is to keep the powder directly on the canker sore, this will reduce the duration of the treatment period. After a couple of minutes rinse your mouth out with water and repeat one to two times a day. Alum Powder can be found in most grocery stores.

Angelica

Angelica

Angelica is a herb that is useful in the prevention of fevers, colds and coughs. It can also be used as a medicinal gargle for sore throats. Angelica has an antibacterial action, preventing the growth of more bacteria. If consuming angelica in powdered form, it should be taken in amounts of 10-30 grains. If taken as the root with boiling water, two tablespoons 3-4 times a day. There are effects of taking angelica. The fresh root of Angelica is not edible, and is said to be poisonous. Do not use while pregnant or breastfeeding without consulting your doctor.

As for the origin of angelica, according to European legend in Western society, Angelica was revealed in a dream by an angel to cure the plague (hence the name Angelica or Archangel). All parts of the plant were believed effective against evil spirits and witchcraft. It was held in such esteem that it was called 'The Root of the Holy Ghost. In America it was used by the Iroquois and other tribes as Witchcraft Medicine, an infusion of smashed roots was used as wash to remove ghosts from the house.

Anti-Inflammatory Drugs

A common remedy for pain relief is the use of anti-inflammatory drugs. This type of remedy works to alleviate pain by reducing inflammation, rather than the use of opiates, which affect the brain. This type of relief is most commonly seen in the name brands, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, and Tylenol. Typically, one to two pills should be taken every four hours, but not exceeding six tablets in twenty four hours. It is not advised to use these remedies on a long term daily basis.

There are risks involved, especially with high or chronic usage. For example, ibuprofen has been observed in elevating the risk of myocardial infarction, and has the potential to

Antacids

Found in brands such as Rolaid and Tums, these chewable tablets help with the digestion process and a cure for a stomach ache. They can also cure acid ingestion, heartburn, gas and a sour stomach. It is recommended to chew these tablets before you swallow them as this helps speed the process to your digestion system. Recommended dosage is 2 to 4 tablets 4 times a day after meals and before you go to sleep. After you take this follow it up with a small glass of water or another liquid.

Doctors suggest that one should not take antacids if the person shows signs appendicitis or an inflamed bowel; these symptoms can include stomach or lower abdominal pain, cramping, bloating, soreness, nausea, or vomiting. Also if one has an extreme allergic reaction to aluminum it is recommended to not take antacids as a majority of these tablets have aluminum in them. Any person taking another prescription drug should also consult a doctor before taking antacids.

Apple Cider for Athletes Foot

Another less well known treatment for a case of Athlete's foot is the use of apple cider. Not only does this remove the burning and itching sensations caused by the fungus, but also serves to disinfect the foot and rid it of the foul odor accompanied by the rotting dead skin. It is generally recommended to soak the infected foot in three parts apple cider and one part vinegar every morning after waking and before going to bed for around thirty minutes. Some people have been known to apply traces of lemon juice into the batch as to increase the amount of citric acid already present in the concoction.

To be on the safe side it is generally agreed to apply a mild amount of foot cream to the infected areas. Although it is imperative that the infected foot is constantly aired, if shoes must be worn they should be well ventilated and as said above, accompanied by cotton socks to help keep the foot dry. Generally there are no negative side effects unless the user is allergic to any of the above ingredients and the fungus should begin to noticeably clear within a week and should be completely gone by the end of the second week.

The origins of this cure are shaky at best but are believed to come from a combination of westernized and traditional Korean remedies.

Apple Cider Vinegar

To help clear up skin with mild acne, try apple cider vinegar. Make a mixture of one part vinegar and ten parts water. Use a cotton ball to apply the mixture to the face. Continue to do this once a day to help prevent more breakouts. The reason this remedy works is because vinegar is acidic; therefore it is important the vinegar is diluted. Use a higher ratio of vinegar to water with care. It has the potential to severely dry out the face if done improperly. This remedy has been known among primarily among American teenagers who struggle with occasional zits.

Apple cider vinegar has also been known to aid in the curing of yeast infection by either drinking two tablespoons with water three times a day or by simply bathing in it. It is recommended to start with a lower dose. While some brands of apple cider vinegar will remove a yeast infection, others are so acidic they can worsen the infection instead.

Apple Cider Vinegar and Arthritis: A great and natural way to help alleviate as well as help prevent the effects of arthritis is to have a small but consistent intake of Apple Cider Vinegar each day. Apple Cider Vinegar may have an unpleasant odor or taste, but it is recommended that one takes 1-2 teaspoons of ACV up to three times a day. Mixing the Apple Cider Vinegar with equal parts honey is a great way to make this home remedy a more pleasant one. Once mixed with honey, you can also mix it with water to taste. When purchasing ACV, make sure you get all-natural Apple Cider Vinegar, and not flavored Apple Cider Vinegar that has no benefit at all. Apple Cider Vinegar works as a sort of body purifier. It helps the body as a whole to break down fatty and acidic deposits in the body that cause a whole slew of ailments. As far as arthritis is concerned ACV is used to dissolve these acid deposits and make it easy for your body to flush out the build-ups in your joints that cause soreness, stiffness and other uncomfortable ailments of arthritis.

This remedy has been around for thousands of years and is a common natural treatment around the world and in the United States.

Apple cider vinegar has also been used to clear the air passageway when people are having ear nose and throat problems. Making a mug of hot but tolerable apple cider vinegar with a small amount of honey to help with taste can be sipped on to release phlegm from the back of the throat. It has been found to be a fast and effective method if the case is not so serious that you must visit a physician.

Arnica

Arnica is used to soothe and heal bruising or sprains and relieve irritations such as trauma arthritis or muscle pain. Commonly applied as a salve, arnica can also be used for chapped lips, irritated nostrils and acne. The properties that cause arnica to heal are the anti-bacterial and inflammatory qualities. These are what reduce the pain and swelling.

Arnica is used when symptoms are present and as long as they remain. Using to prevent a symptom or use after a symptom is semi gone will not affect the treatment or the person. However prolonged use may irritate the skin and cause eczema or blisters which arnica shouldn't be used on. Arnica is rarely used as an internal herbal remedy because it can cause dizziness, tremors and heart irregularities.

Found in North America, Arnica originated with the Catawba Indians who used a tea of arnica roots for treating back pains. This internal ingestion of arnica can be harmful if not properly prepared right.

Athlete's Foot

Athlete’s foot is an infection caused by the fungus dermatophytes. There are many ways to preventively fight the fungus. Keeping one’s feet dry and using cotton socks can help, as can your diet. Alcohol and sugars along with processed foods should be avoided while fresh fruits and green vegetables should be added. These measures help fight off infections but if one should develop there are several methods to get deal with it.

Immediate relief of burning and itching can be found by soaking one’s feet in mouthwashes such as Listerine. While it may be functional, due to cultural differences, some would advise against soaking your feet in Listerine. Alternatively, they might recommend warm salt water. Additionally, soaking your feet in water and white vinegar twice daily will start to rid off the infection. The solution should be one part white vinegar to four parts water and soaking should last twenty minutes. Don't use the mixture more than once. Accompanied with the application of tea tree oil, the fungus will clear up. The tea tree oil needs to be applied to the affected areas of the foot in small amounts.

Avocados.

Avocados

This fruit is rich in many vitamins and minerals essential to healthy skin, teeth and nails. It also contains fat, the good kind (as opposed to the heart-clogging kind), which provides energy. It can be eaten as a spread, on sandwiches, as guacamole, or simply by itself. It should be added to your diet as a part of an over-all balanced one, and a half of a large one or whole small one is a daily recommended amount.

Baby Powder

Along with baby powders most common use it can be used for other common things as well. Blisters are a common sore found mainly on the feet or hands from continuous rubbing on sensitive skin. They can also be formed from burns from the sun or other forms of heat. The best thing to do to treat a blister is to pop it by using a sterilized needle and making a small puncture at the side of the blister making sure it is large enough to drain all of the fluid out. If it is possible it is better to leave the skin covering the blister intact as it serves as ‘natures’ band-aid. If it is not possible to leave the skin covering the blister you can use baby powder to relieve pain to the area. Maybe an even better method is to apply a small amount of petroleum jelly to the area and then cover it with Spenco's Second Skin dressing which acts as a temporary layer of skin while the wound heals. This is an over the counter product that can be bought at pharmacies as well as many other large department stores. The best time to apply these products is immediately after popping the blister. If the sore begins to dry up they will not help as much.

Bacon Fat

A good remedy for boils. You place raw bacon fat on the top of the boil and change two times a day. The salt in the bacon helps to draw out the pus.

Baking Soda

Foot odor is a typical thing that everyone has to deal with. Yet for some it's harder to get rid of than others. One way to help get rid of foot odor is to sprinkle 1 or 2 teaspoons of baking soda into your shoes at night. Leave the baking soda in all day and then dump out what remains at the end of the day, before you go to sleep sprinkle another 1 or 2 teaspoons into your shoes. This helps to absorb moisture as well as hide odors. Continue to repeat this process until foot odor is gone.

Baking Soda and Salt

A person’s smile is usually the first physical characteristic that is noticed. Lately, many people have sought a natural way to achieve whiter teeth, therefore maintaining a more healthy appearance. A common method of achieving this goal is to alternate brushing with a traditional tooth paste and a homemade mixture consisting of one half baking soda and one half salt. Water is then added to produce a paste like substance. Brushing is required for between two and four minutes. This simple and cost effective practice will immediately whiten teeth and also decrease the amount of accumulated plaque. Due to the taste of the salt, there is a possibility of a raw or bitter aftertaste in ones mouth. If desired, the frequency of brushing with this homemade formulation can be reduced to only a few times a week. Teeth whitening is a custom that originated in Western society, usually in the middle-upper socio-economic strata of this culture. Alternative whitening agents are also being developed and marketed for the consumer.

Baking Soda and Water

Have an unpset stomach? This is an affordable solution to alka-seltzer or other over the counter drugs for the upset stomach. The ingredients in alka-seltzer is citric acid and baking soda. The citric acid does little but make the tablets fizz when they react with the baking soda (sodium bicarbonate). This simple home remedy requires that one use 1-2 tablespoons of baking soda, mix with a glass of water (8 oz), and drink rather quickly. Generally within a 1/2 hour your stomach will feel better. If after an hour your stomach is still upset, drink another glass. Usually one glass will do the trick, and there is no need to continue use if the problem subsides after using baking soda and water. It should only be used again on the next occasion a person experiences heartburn or as a preventative measure before a person eats something that might potentially give them heartburn.

Baking soda and water can also be used not only for an upset stomach, but also to curb mild forms of Acid Reflux (or GERD). Eat that pizza right before you decided to go to bed? Many people will find themselves experiencing heartburn as well as Acid Refux symptoms. For many, baking soda and water will cure both in under 30 minutes. In a culture that thrives on instant results, baking soda is a fast working, all purpose substance that is used for instant relief.

Baking soda and water is also a remedy for bee stings. Mix a third of a cup of baking soda with two thirds of a cup of water, and put it on and around the sting. After a couple of minutes, you should start to feel relief. The paste will dry up and stop working after about 15 minutes, so repeat the process.

Bananas

Have cramps? Tired muscles? Need relief? Try bananas. The potassium content in bananas helps relieve the pain caused from muscle cramping and exhaustion. Eating 3-4 bananas a week can help your muscles stamina and if cramping occurs, eat a banana to help stop the pain sooner. Eating bananas is greatly encouraged for runners or other intense workouts to improve muscle stamina and avoid cramping. Even one banana before a run can drastically decrease the likelihood that muscles with cease in the middle of the workout.

Bee Stings Ouch!

Bee Stings are never delightful and can be very painful or even deadly. A way to reduce irritation and pain is to remove the stinger of the insect with a sharp object like a credit card, immediately. You should scrape it out rather than pull it because it won’t leave any excess venom inside. Make sure that you remove the entire stinger from your skin, to prevent irritation and infection. Next, you should apply meat tenderizer, (if not available, then deodorant works also), to the sting. This will remove the protein from the bees venom. Apply ice or a cold rag to the sting to help prevent an allergic reaction. If the sting is still irritated, you can apply toothpaste or baking soda mixed with water to the sting; this will stop the itching. See also, Bee Stings

bzzz

I you are in the woods and don't have these things you can apply mud onto the sting and the coolness of the mud will sooth the sting. This is a technique that has been used by hikers for a long time.

You can also rub parsley on it.

Beef Tenderizer

Another way to help with the pain of bee stings is to apply beef tenderizer that is mixed with water, so it makes a paste. You apply the paste in the affected area and it helps deal with the venom. After applying the paste, use a hair dryer to dry it and then cover it with a bandage to help the paste take affect and to keep it from getting further infected and irritated. More information about this remedy can be found at:

Benadryl

To relieve Hives and itching take an oral antihistamine, such as Benadryl. Hives are caused by an allergic reaction to some substance in the environment that a person comes in contact with. On the first occurrence of the hives take one to two Benadryl pills every six hours. After the hives have disappeared, begin decreasing the dose of the Benadryl slowly over the next week. Using antihistamines to reduce hives is part of the western biomedical model of health

Birth Root

Birth Root (biological name: Trillium Pendulum) is an endangered herb grown in the mid-west. Mostly birth root is directed towards women for internal and external problems. This herb is mostly used by Native American women. It is used to strengthen women's reproductive organs to keep labor short and sweet. Other illnesses this herb is used for is a common cough, and when boiled with milk it can help diarrhea. Take one teaspoon of the herb with one cup of water or milk. You may have this hot or cold and take it before bed time. May take up to 2 cups per day.

Blackberry

Blackberries can be used to help cure a stomach ache and nausea. By creating syrup from the roots, you are able to create a cure for both upset stomach and mild diarrhea. You can also boil the leaves in order to create a tea to sooth the stomach, the throat, and stop diarrhea. Made whenever ill, this syrup or tea made from the leaves or roots of the blackberry can be used as frequent as necessary to help settle your stomach. You can get relief without any side effects. Blackberry bushes can be found very easily in our area and through various parts of the country, so this remedy is easily accessible. This remedy is a tradition of many of the Native American Cultures around the United States.

Black Eye

The best treatment for a black eye is to apply something cold to the affected area without applying pressure. An example of this to hold a cold can of soda against the cheek of the swollen eye for several minutes without adding pressure to the eye itself.

Black Tea

Made from the leaves of an evergreen shrub known as the Camellia sinensis, Black Tea is not only used to make a caffeinated drink but also serves as a natural home remedy to help prevent foot odor. By soaking the feet in question for twenty minutes, the natural composition of the leaves, are known to prevent or cover the smell of the odorous feet for a limited amount of time. One is supposed to soak four tea bags in a gallon of hot to boiling water to form a fairly thick tea. Then let cool to a warm temperature and proceed to soak the feet for the previously mentioned amount of time of twenty minutes. Be advised to not stick odorous feet in boiling water as this may cause severe burns. The use of Black Tea has currently thrived in Western society.

Bloody Nose

When you get a bloody nose, you can use the treatment that my family uses. At first you should press firmly on your nose with a tissue until it slows down a little bit. When it is not gushing blood anymore but not totally gone you can mix up some alum powder with some Neosporin or Vaseline. On a plate or small disk that is clean, mix about one part alum powder with two parts Vaseline or Neosporin with a Q-Tip. With the Q-Tip, put a decent amount of this mixture in your nostril that was bleeding, making sure you cover the whole nostril. This should clot the blood and stop your nosebleed.

You should do this once or twice per nostril depending on how much it is bleeding about 5 min after the start of the nosebleed. This goes along with Western Culture. My dad made this up, in a sense. The alum powder is the main ingredient in the sticks that men use when they cut themselves shaving. But since it is a powder you have to mix it with Neosporin or Vaseline. This mixture also helps to repair the nose cells that bled. If you do not mix it with the Vaseline or Neosporin then it wont work as well and is harder on your nose (it stings like crazy too). Alum powder can be found in the spices section of the grocery store.

Another way to stop the bleeding is to press and hold the upper bone of the nose for few minutes, this should stop the bleeding.

Body Odor

Have you ever been in a public place and realized that horrible stench of body odor was emitting from your underarms? Forgot to put on deodorant today, or have a serious sweating problem like I do? Have no fear- the solutions are here!

First off- do the obvious things like routine bathing. Make sure to thoroughly wash your underarms with a generous amount of soap and apply deodorant directly after you towel off and try to shower in the morning to make this after-shower freshness last all day. Second- avoid those unbreathable, man made fabrics that you can't even pronounce. Stick to cotton instead which allows for a lot of air flow and help to dry or soak up sweat. Third- if you forget your normal deodorant or antiperspirant try using plain old baking soda (or choose a deodorant that includes baking soda). It has great absorbing properties and helps kill the oder-causing bacteria that come with that unpleasant damp feeling.

Body odor can be more than a hygiene problem or from pure physical exertion- it can also be related to your diet, medications, liver or kidney disorders. If you try the above suggestions and still find yourself pitting-out and making people pass out with your stank, visit your doctor. They can prescribe a special antibiotic anti-antiperspirant for your pits.

Borage Oil

Borage oil can be used to help treat rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease in which the immune system attacks the joints and other body parts. Taking borage oil can help to reduce the pain. Borage oil is a fatty acid containing Omega-3 that derived from the seeds of the borage plant. It is found primarily in supplements. Borage oil has been found successful in treating rheumatoid arthritis when 1.4-2.8 grams are taken daily for at least two months. Minor side effects include bloating, nausea, indigestion, and headache.

Bourbon Tooth Ache

Teething not only affects infants; it affects the parents as well. Infants are known to cry, a lot, and parents can resort to many different ways of curing the pain. Bourbon is an American made whiskey, initiating in Kentucky. Parents may add just a drop of this liquid to their fingers, and apply it to their infant's area of teething. It is very effective in numbing the area, and can help calm the infant and ease them into sleep.

This method should only be used very moderately, and when the infant is experiencing inconceivable pain. Parents should take care in giving their child only a drop; beware of intoxicating the child.

Bracken Fern

This fern is commonly found in many temperate forests along with its counterpart, the stinging nettle plant. Bracken fern serves as a remedy for nettle stings. Simply rub a crushed bracken fern stem on the stinging area for one to five minutes depending on severity, and eventually the juices that the plant secrets will numb the stinging, itching sensation and inflammation will go down. This method was developed by Native Americans in North America and passed on to Western society tradition and other places where nettles and bracken fern thrive.

For Bull Ant stings dig up rhizome, crush and apply. Won't help if you are allergic to the sting though.

Brandy Syrup

A mixture of lemon juice, honey, and brandy. It clears your sinuses and soothes sores throats. It acts essentially as a home-made cough syrup. If a younger individual is taking the mixture and doesn't like the brandy taste the brandy can be left out, but some of the soothing results will be lost. The lemon juice cuts through blockages, the honey protects raw areas, and the brandy kills bacteria and numbs the throat.

Alternately, the mixture can be served warm. It's best to take the mixture in small doses, roughly 2-4 tablespoons.

Brittle Nails

Nails breaking? There is a cure! Brittle nails are caused by many things but the main reason is water. When nails are in water, they expand and become weak thus causing them to break. A way to make nails stronger is by eating cauliflower. Cauliflower contains biotin which thickens nails preventing them from breaking. The biotin is absorbed through the core of the nail making them thicker.

Another cheap and effective way of preventing your nails from breaking is soaking your nails in vegetable oil regularly. This replenishes the moisture lost from being in water so much. To ensure nails from breaking cutting the nails short will help. This is because longer nails tend to break and tear very easily. The best time to cut your nails is right after you get out of the shower or bath. This is when the nails the softest and least likely to break.

Brittle nails can also be caused by a lack of olive oil in one's diet, so making sure to incorporate it into one's daily diet can help to create stronger nails. Also, brittle nails can benefit from eating jello... the bone marrow in the jello helps replace the lost calcium in one's system and helps nails to be stronger. On that train of thought, simply increasing the calcium in one's diet should help brittle nails become stronger.

Bronchitis

Bronchitis is a respiratory condition caused by inflammation of the bronchi within the lungs. Typical symptoms of this infection includes fever, difficulty in breathing, constant coughing and loss of appetite. Having been through chronic bronchitis three times in the last four years, I have learned a few handy ways to get through this draining condition.

First off, a large contributor to the contraction of bronchitis is smoking, for it irritates the bronchi leaving the vulnerable to germs inhaled. Obviously, kick the habit if you truly want to avoid bronchitis.

Next, it can be extremely hard to sleep through the night if you have bronchitis because of the constant coughing so I suggest that the best way to catch some Z's is to attempt sleeping while sitting up. Choose a comfy recliner and make that your bed for a while- elevating your lungs opens them up and helps prevent coughing attacks.

In some health-food stores and co-ops you can find liquid aloe-vera which my grandmother ingests every single day to prevent her chronic coughing. I prefer to take "Tussin" which is the knock-off brand of "Robatussin". It focuses on your lungs without hyping you up or making you drowsy.

To fight the inflammation in your lungs, take ibuprofen or another similar anti-inflammatory.

One home remedy (that I've never experienced first-hand) used to treat bronchitis is to take one teaspoon of raw onion juice. Raw onion juice has been found to have expectorant properties liquefying phlegm within the lungs.

B.R.A.T.Y. Diet

The BRATY Diet is a great diet to abide by while suffering from the flu or common upset stomach. The foods listed in this diet are very simplistic and are easy digest while you are sick (aka- you're more likely to keep these down long enough to glean some nutrients from them). Each letter in the world "B.R.A.T.Y." stands for a specific type of food; B: banana, R: rice, A: apple sauce (unsweetened), T: toast, and Y: yogurt (plain, unsweetened).

It is always important to stay away from dairy when one is dealing with the flu because it doesn't sit well with one's churning stomach. However, one might also notice that yogurt is included in this list, and yogurt is commonly considered a dairy product. But, yogurt is special. Yogurt is the product of bacteria consuming lactose in milk, and it is the lactose that causes irritation of an already upset stomach. Yogurt actually helps the upset stomach by reintroducing helpful bacteria into the digestive system.

In addition, the foods listed in the BRATY Diet are very plain and don't have much of a taste which can make eating easier while one is sick. The BRATY Diet is highly recommended because it is a sure way to consume foods that are easy on one's stomach while one is sick with the flu.

Broadleaf Plantain

Plantain is a small, leafy plant found in the Northwest and other moderate climates of the world, and it has been used to treat medical problems from malignant ulcers to snake bites. In fact, the plant is known commonly in the US as Snake Weed, because of a belief in its efficacy against various poisonous bites. It has also been used as a diuretic, a treatment for rabies, and for internal hemorrhaging; however, it is probably not effective against all of these ailments.

One thing it does work well against, though, is a bee sting. It is a very simple remedy: one simply chews 2-4 leaves (enough so that the paste will cover the sting thoroughly) until they form a fibrous paste, then applies this poultice-like substance to a sting. The pain and inflammation generally subside in a matter of minutes.

This practice comes from Anglo-Saxon culture; many of the earlier references to plantain come from Scottish highland culture. It is mentioned in Chaucer's writing, as well as in several of Shakespeare's plays (Love's Labours Lost, Romeo and Juliet, and others).

Burns

So have you ever burn your self on a hot pan or just by grabbing something hot? People will tell you to run it underneath cold water for twenty minutes which works but is only a temporary fix that will last for an hour or so. Next time you burn your self run up to your bathroom and grab your tube of crest tooth paste. Apply a dab of tooth paste and slowly rub it into your burn for a minute or so. You will find that it immediately remove all pain and helps to keep the swelling and blistering down. The nice thing is that you only have to do this once and you're set and will have a speedy recovery and be able to get back to the kitchen and cook up a storm.

Another good remedy is using potatoes. When you get a mild burn, take a potato and either cut a slice or use a grater and grate enough to cover the burned area. Take that slice or grated potato and place over the burn and leave it there for five minutes and then remove and rinse with cold water, if it wasn't a bad burn then by the next morning it should be completely healed. Also works if you burn your mouth, just chew a bit of raw potato (without the skin) and it will feel a lot better. Obviously if you have a bad burn, forget the potato and get medical attention. I think this idea originates from South America, but I am not positive.

Another cure for burns is vanilla extract! You just put it on the burn and it helps in the prevention of calluses and burn marks.

The best remedy for minor burns at home is an onion. All you need is a white onion (not a sweet onion) to cut a slice from. Place the onion slice on the burn as soon as possible. The vapors and acids in the onion dull the nerves that sense the pain and the evaporating vapors will cool the skin. Leave on for at least several minutes then rinse well with cool water. There is not one specific origin of this. This does not contradict the other remedies, it is just another useful one.

Burnt Toast

If you have an upset stomach, diarrhea, or gas, consider eating some burnt toast for breakfast. You can put butter or jam on it to make it taste better but make sure to eat the black part. The charcoal from the burning of the toast will absorb bad bacteria in your digestive tract that is making you ill. The charcoal will then carry the bacteria all the way through your system and out. This works because the charcoal absorbs the bacteria but your body will not later reabsorb the charcoal. You may eat the burnt toast alone or with other things depending on how you feel. The only risk associated with this remedy is the risk of failure. If you are experiencing nausea and eat burnt toast and it doesn’t work you may see the toast again all too soon. This trick is used in a variety of places but my source of knowledge originated in the house of a priest in Uganda.

Butterbur

Butterbur

Butterbur is an herb that originated in South Africa. It is also found in Europe and parts of North Africa and Asia. This plant grows in damp, marshy areas and along riverbanks with large heart-shaped leaves. Herbalists in the Middle Ages used butterbur’s roots to treat fevers and plague. Later on in the seventeenth-century, butterbur was used for headaches, asthma, allergies, and coughs. Recently, researchers have found that a daily dose of butterbur is effective at preventing migraine headaches. The butterbur extract contains anti-spasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties which help prevent pain by keeping the blood vessels in the head from becoming inflamed.

The butterbur extract has been proven to be safe for adults as well as children who suffer from frequent migraines. Candidates for this supplement suffer from frequent attacks that are greater than or equal to two per month, totaling three or more days. Candidates may also have recurring migraines that significantly interfere with one’s daily routines. Supplements of the butterbur extract generally come in 50 mg capsules. Adults commonly take one supplement three times daily for four weeks, then take one capsule twice daily for the following four to six months. If migraine headaches return, it is advised to restart the process by taking the butterbur supplement three times a day for four to six month. Children six to nine years old generally take one butterbur capsule daily for a constant four to six months. Children ten to seventeen years of age are advised to take one supplement twice a day for four to six months as well.

Butterbur extracts can be found in your pharmacy and vitamin shops. Supplements containing butterbur extracts are natural and do not produce harmful side effects. Through clinical studies, patients who took the herb twice a day for an extended amount of time had nearly half the amount of migraines.

Calms Forte

A problem many people face is having trouble trying to get to sleep. Calms forte is a simple and homeopathic solution to this problem that also relieves nervous and stress related symptoms. In a simple tablet available in chewable form, several ingredients combine make up a solution to a full night’s sleep with no side or after effects. These tablets are safe and anyone, regardless of age, can use this simple remedy. According to Hyland’s, calms forte contains the following ingredients that aid in sleeplessness: Passiflora 1X Triple Strength - for restless or wakeful sleep from exhaustion Avena Sativa 1X Double Strength - for stress, nervousness or nervous headache Humulus Lupulus 1X Double Strength - for drowsiness with incomplete sleep Chamomilla 2X (Chamomile) - for nervous irritability And the following biochemic phosphates for enhancing cellular function: Calcarea Phosphorica 3X HPUS, Ferrum Phosphoricum 3X HPUS, Kali Phosphoricum 3X HPUS, Natrum Phosphoricum 3X HPUS, Magnesia Phosphoricum 3X HPUS

This is an easy and enjoyable way (if the tablets taste nice) to finally get to sleep and experience a feeling of calm replacing other stressful thoughts or feelings.

Caffeine

Caffeine may be used to lessen the symptoms of asthma, as it is similar to theophylline, a drug used in medical treatments of asthma. Just a couple cups of coffee (or another caffeinated drink such as Mountain Dew) can help one breathe better during an attack. However, it is important to keep track of how much caffeine you take in, as high amounts of caffeine can interact with drugs and make you more susceptible to stroke. Due to these risk factors, caffeine should not be a replacement for prescribed asthma medication, but may be used in a time of need when an inhaler is not accessible. This remedy has been used for years in the United States, but became most prominent in the 1990s when the results of new asthma studies hit the media.

Caffeine also helps minimize or temporarily alleviate feelings of drowsiness. Caffeine stimulates the central nervous system. It affects increase adrenaline and levels of serotonin, improving consumer’s mood. With its capabilities of limiting drowsiness, a person has the potential to increase their mental or physical labor. Beverages such as coffee, tea, soft drinks, and energy drinks are all known for their caffeine effects. These caffeine products are very popular in America especially in the workplace because of caffeines link to increased productivity. The amount consumed correlates to the amount of stimulation. However, this amount varies by the consumer. A person’s age, weight, liver functions, medications consumed, and other variable conditions will regulate the outcome of the substance. Because it only disguises feelings of tiredness, need for sleep may be forgotten. Other negative effects occur when overuse of the stimulant as presented prior. Use in moderation.

Caffeine for Migraines

Caffeine can be used to help alleviate the symptoms of a migraine. Many over the counter pain medications have caffeine included in the ingredients. Caffeine additives make pain-relievers more effective in treating headaches by helping the body absorb the medication more quickly, which in turn helps bring relief faster. While too much caffeine may cause migraines and other headaches, caffeine taken at the right time preceding a migraine attack along with a pain reliever can greatly reduce the severity.

Caffeine

Caffeine is a known home remedy to treat asthma attacks. By consuming two cups of coffee (or another drink with similar caffeine content), one can breathe easier during an asthma attack when there is no access to an inhaler. However, consuming caffeine should not be used as a replacement for long term control of asthmatic infliction. There are health risks involved with increased amounts of caffeine; therefore, one should measure and track how much caffeine is consumed. Health risks involved with greater consumption of caffeine include: drug interactions, increased susceptibility to stoke, anxiety, sleeplessness, and many other side effects depending on sensitivity of persons.

Caffeine has only been found to aid as an analgesic, helping many with headaches among other aches and pains. This is most often taken into account when caffeine is paired with an already known pain reliever, such as acetaminophen, to increase the likelihood of alleviated discomfort. However, in acute pain related patients, caffeine intake alone of 65 mg was found to be as effective as 648 mg of acetaminophen.

The use of caffeine as remedy for asthma attacks has been used for years in the United States, and became most widespread in the 1990s when the results of new asthma studies were announced to the public.

Camphophenic

Camphophenic has many minor uses in relieving different kinds of pain. It usually consists of an ointment or an oil that can be applied directly to minor cuts and burns in order to temporarily numb the affected area. My personal favorite use of this ointment is on canker sores. It takes away the pain for several minutes and promotes healing. Camphopheic is also very effective for arthritis pain when applied locally. It is generally always free from side effects. The main ingredient in this ointment is Camphor. It a white transparent waxy crystalline solid with a strong penetrating aromatic odor. It is found in the wood of a tree called Camphor Laurel, a type of evergreen tree generally found in Asia (Borneo and Taiwan to be more specific). Camphor helps with blood circulation. It is readily absorbed through the skin and produces a feeling of cooling similar to menthol and acts as a slight local anesthetic. Similar products to Camphophenic are Tiger Balm, Fastum Gel, and Watkins menthol camphor ointment.

Cannabis

Cannabis

The female species of Cannabis or Marijuana is known primarily in the United States as an illegal drug whose buds or flowers can be smoked or eaten to create a "high". Cannabis also definitely has many healing properties. One in particular is arthritic pain. It has been found that a small amount (about half a gram) of Cannabis each day can help to ease the pain cased by arthritis. The main chemical is Cannabis that creates the "high" that reduces pain is known as THC (tetrahydrocannabinol). When THC enters the brain it binds with the protein receptors of membrane nerve cells. One result of this is a "high" that numbs or reduces arthritic pain. Cannabis use dates back to around 6000 B.C. when its seeds were used for food by the Chinese. Since then it has become a fixture within countless cultures worldwide for uses of all sorts. As a modern-day pain reliever Cannabis fit into Western culture.

Cannabis is used widely within subcultures of the United States and Western Europe as an alternative inebriant to alcohol. Many find that it is safer, does not impair their everyday activities, and there are no negative day after effects. Many choose to cook the cannabis into "ganja food" in order to offset the ill effects of smoke on the lungs. It is commonly used to treat mild pain, stress, and insomnia.

The use of cannabis has also been used for the alleviation of nausea in cancer patients going through chemotherapy. That combined with the added effect of making the patient hungry allows them to eat when their condition wouldn’t allow them otherwise. This process has been used in certain Western culture where the plant has been allowed by law to use for medical purposes.

Cannabis is also widely used by and legally prescribed to patients with glaucoma in Western culture. The THC chemical found in cannabis has been proven to lower the intraocular pressures associated with glaucoma and also prevents optic nerve damage. Cannabis is most effective when smoked and the general requirement for glaucoma patients is about .5 grams every 3 hours or so. The plant is illegal in the United States, however, and a prescription must be obtained for legal use.

Cayenne Pepper

This pepper is most commonly used to spice dishes but has been used for centuries for medicinal purposes. One of the main uses is for poor circulation. No other herb on the planet gets your blood moving faster than the cayenne. A good dose to start with would be 1/16th of a teaspoon. Those not used to this little dynamite could burn their mouth off. Powder is preferred to the pill form. When your tongue tastes the powder it is instantly absorbed and will start moving blood. Another way in which cayenne pepper is used to treat physical ailments is in tea form. A home remedy for sore throats can be made by combining 1 cup of steaming hot water, 1 teaspoon of honey, 1/2 teaspoon of fresh lemon juice and a dash of cayenne pepper (or whatever is tolerable) in your favorite mug. Sip as often as necessary for pain relief however pay attention to the amount of cayenne pepper used for each dose to prevent burning and inflammation. In Western culture it is common for home remedies to be comprised of ingredients available to the average household such as lemon, honey and cayenne pepper. Cayenne has also been used by the Chinese for digestive purposes such as reducing gas and poor digestion.

Cayenne Pepper for Nasal Decongestion

When you have a stuffed up nose, put a small amount of cayenne pepper on your finger and breath it in. This rush of heat breaks up the flem and allows you to breath easy. Your nose might burn for a few minutes but the overall affect is that your nasal passage is clear of mucus.

Cayenne Pepper Diuretic

This is a home made diuretic drink mix. Combine Cayenne pepper, lemon, and a little maple syrup in a gallon jug with water. Consume servings of about 8oz. every morning.

Chamomile and Ambiance

To cure any case of insomnia, you can never go wrong with a nice warm cup of chamomile tea, accompanied by some ambient music. This is even suitable for parents out there who want their children to get to bed. Different than other teas, chamomile is an herbal tea, and therefore doesn't contain any caffeine, which is known to interrupt one's R.E.M., or deep sleep. Chamomile tea has a history of soothing the nerves; and the icing on the cake is that it boosts activity within the immune system, therefore preventing illness. Chamomile works especially well if your insomnia can be attributed to discomfort due to gas, because chamomile’s a natural anti-inflammatory, and reduces gas.

Chamomile Tea and Whole Wheat Snack

This remedy is extremely effective in helping to cure sleep problems, such as insomnia, or to simply induce steady, restful sleep. Any night that one feels tense, or unable to properly fall asleep, it is safe to take this natural remedy about an hour before one's desired sleep-initiation. When one wakes up in the middle of the night, this remedy also works to the same end. Take one mug of water heated in the microwave for approximately one and a half minutes and submerge the chamomile tea bag in the warm water until desired taste is achieved. However, it is most effective to just leave the tea bag in the mug throughout intake. Then, accompany this with a whole wheat snack of wheat thins, an oatmeal raisin cookie, or other small whole-wheat solid. If a low-key environment is provided as well, this remedy should put you right off to sleep. The whole wheat will serve to increase the production of serotonin in the brain, which induces the sleep-ready state, while the chamomile also works to calm one's nerves and provide the right environment for rest.

Drinking too much tea before bed, however, can leave one waking up mid-sleep for restroom breaks, so it is important to only have about one mug of the chamomile tea. This remedy should also, definitely not be accompanied by any Jack Daniels or the like, due to the fact that alcohol actually interrupts your sleeping patterns and can wake you up early in the morning before you are completely rested. And one does not want to be missing out on precious R.E.M. sleep, does one?

Hot tea also helps sooth sore throats and is good to drink before bed to relieve dryness of the throat, causing coughing which can prevent people from falling asleep.

Chicken Noodle Soup

Chicken noodle soup.

One way to let your body heal itself through the process of a common cold is a steaming hot bowl of chicken noodle soup. Though there is no medical proof that chicken soup has any particular healing powers, it has several beneficial qualities that may alleviate cold symptoms. For one thing, eating chicken soup may inhibit inflammation in the nasal cavity. This may vary depending on the type and amount of spices use in the soup. The spicier the soup is, the more likely it is to reduce nasal blockage. In addition, the steam produced by an especially hot bowl of soup will also work as an agent for clearing the nasal passages. Chicken soup has even been said to produce mucus which is the body’s natural way of soothing a sore throat. Furthermore, studies have shown that the ingredients in chicken noodle soup help to produce white blood cells which help the body to ward off disease. It has been theorized that the high salt content in soups, especially chicken noodle soup, help the body absorb the germs and toxins that make you sick. When the salt enters the body and breaks down, it bonds with other chemicals in the body, helping to flush out the system from the inside out. The amino acids found in chicken noodle soup are also helpful in aiding the healing process.

Perhaps, though, the best way that chicken noodle soup helps us fight the common cold is by providing us with comfort and relaxation. Chicken soup is a reminder of home, mothers, teddy bears, and Disney movies. And while the physical symptoms of the common cold may remain, chicken soup at least helps people to forget them for a while.

As far as dosage and frequency of use is concerned, that is up to the individual. Chicken soup should be taken in conjunction with regular exercise and a balanced diet in order to prevent obesity or malnutrition. It should be eaten at a reasonable temperature as to avoid burns or other injury.

Chicken soup is commonly used in Western society as a cure for colds but it dates as far back as Ancient Egypt. It was also used by Persians in the 10th century and Jews in the 12th century. Today it is used by many cultures around the world.

See also: Miso Soup.

Chinese Food Therapy

Chinese Food Therapy is an ancient practice which uses natural foods for healing instead of medicine. In this traditional method, foods are divided into two categories: yin and yang. Yin foods have high water content and decrease the body's heat, thus lowering metabolism, while yang foods have high food energy and increase the body's heat, thus raising its metabolism. The ideal thing to do is eat equal amounts of both types of foods to maintain balance and to prevent diseases and disorders. For example, eating a yin food can cure dryness of skin and chapped lips, and eating a yang food can cure dizziness and weakness. If you have too much of a certain type of food, you can become sick. If you eat too much yang food you will suffer from acne, and if you eat too much yin food you may become anemic. Chinese food therapy dates back to 2000 B.C., and is most popular among Cantonese people, even today.

Chocolate

Its true! Women all over the world rejoice, because it has now been proven that chocolate is good for you! Studies have proven that in moderation dark chocolate can help in the prevention of heart disease and other heart-related issues. Much like a glass of red wine, dark chocolate helps to keep those passages clean and prevent heart attacks and other potentially life-threatening heart conditions. .

Cinnamon

That awesome tasting powder you see on French toast and creme brulee has another purpose besides just tasting good. Cinnamon is used by some people as a supplement to boost the immune system, and it is believed to have antibiotic properties, as well. Thus, as well as preventing illness, it can be used when you are sick for an immune boost.

Citric Fruits

Citric Fruits not only are good tasting but have many benefits to staying healthy. Oranges, grapefruits, lemons etc., all are rich in vitamin C. Vitamin C not only stops the onset of scurvy, but can help prevent the common cold, and has been proven to help reduce cardiovascular disease. The reason Vitamin C is so commonly attributed to curing colds is because of its anti-oxidants. Anti-oxidants help build the immune system and fight the bacteria that cause the cold. Eating many fruits and vegetables high in vitamin C will help keep people healthy, but that might not always be enough so taking a vitamin C supplement can also bust the immune system.

Coca Leafs

Leaves and berries

Despite its notorious reputation and the affects it has had on American society, the actual leaf from which cocaine is extracted has been used as an herbal remedy for hundreds if not thousands of years. The leaf is generally found in the Andean regions of Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, Venezuela, Bolivia. It is used on a regular basis for altitude sickness, fatigue, hunger relief, to quench thirst, stop motion sickness, as an antidepressant, and as a stimulant (like coffee). The leaf its self is most commonly chewed or masticated with cal, however it can also be administered in different forms. Although the coca leaf is the raw material used to create cocaine; it does not have the toxicity or dependence as its narcotic counterpart.

Coca Cola/ Coke Syrup

If you have an upset stomach, a good way to relieve it is by drinking coke syrup or flat Coca-Cola. Coke syrup is the base for the soda pop Coca-Cola. If you let a can of Coca-Cola sit out for about 30 minutes the soda will lose its carbonation and go flat. By letting the bubbles dissipate it prevents your stomach from being further upset from the carbonation. You can either consume one teaspoon of coke syrup or a half a can of flat soda.

The idea behind this remedy is that the syrup acts to neutralize the extra acid in your stomach when it is upset. This cure is counterintuitive because it would seem like it would further upset it because of the carbonation of the soda, but if it is flat or just the coke syrup it avoids this negative consequence. Some of the positive effect of this remedy might be psychological. Also if you are feeling sick, drinking something sweet makes you feel better. This cure seems to be especially effective at settling an upset stomach if feeling nauseous or vomiting. This home remedy is very effective because it also tastes good so it is easy to drink. Other people have also used similar soda pops, such as sprite or ginger ale to settle an upset stomach.

Cod Liver Oil and Apple Cider Vinegar]]

Both consuming cod liver oil and washing your hair with apple vinegar can help prevent and actually slow down the process of balding. Simply drink one tablespoon of cod liver oil and rinse your hair with a mixture of half a cup of apple cider vinegar and half a cup of water once a day. Unfortunately, cod liver oil does not have a pleasurable taste or smell, and the smell of vinegar can also be somewhat unpleasant. However, there are not any major risks of using this treatment. In fact, taking cod liver oil can also help lower your risk for cardiovascular disease and improve your skin. Both cod liver oil and apple cider vinegar have been used in the US for years, but this particular combination is somewhat rare.

Cold Compress

A thermometer

A fever is a symptom of numerous diseases. It is not necessarily a bad thing, and may even speed up the healing process. Some people try to ‘burn off’ a fever, by drinking hot liquids and wearing warm clothes/burying themselves in blankets. However, if the fever gets too high this can be dangerous. The brain and other organs may suffer permanent damage. In this case, medicine is used to bring down the fever. But what if there is no medicine available, or if the patient’s body won’t accept it? The best option then is to apply a cold compress to the forehead. Ideally, it should be cold but not frozen. It should be left on as long as necessary, and replaced when it warms up. More drastic cooling methods can be dangerous because they can reduce the body’s ability to fight off disease and make the body more susceptible to new diseases.

A cold compress can also be used to treat eczema flareups. Eczema is a general term for rash-like skin conditions. Scratching makes the condition worse and can even lead to a bacterial infection. Applying a cold compress to the area of irritation can help stop this. The compress will reduce the inflammation and lessen the desire to scratch. This practice works best at the first sign of a rash in order to stop it from getting worse. However, it can be used at any point during the outbreak.

Cold Pack

A cold pack laid over ones head can help relieve the pain caused by a migraine headache. This remedy will help people who describe their migraine as throbbing or piercing pain. Most migraines are one sided and with a cold pack you can target the area of your head that needs treatment. You can use a cold pack as often and as long as the pain persists, if the pack is too cold try wrapping the pack in a dish cloth and then reapplying to the area in pain. Migraines and their treatment are a common part of Western society.

Cold Spoon

Using a cold spoon can prevent swelling around the eyes after crying, from irritation or from injury. Put a metal spoon in the freezer and let sit for at least one half hour. When ready, rub the bottom of the spoon slowly back and forth across the bottom eyelid. If needed let the spoon get cold again and repeat the process. Don't have any moisture around the skin of the eye to prevent the cold spoon from sticking. This remedy is used in Western Culture, passed down matrilineally through the author's family.

Not recommended in the case of eye disease without consulting a physician.

Cold Washcloth

The use of a cold washcloth over closed eyes helps to constrict blood flow within your eyes. This aids in reducing Red Eyes because the restricted blood vessels stop pumping blood into your eye. Also, the cold washcloth helps add moisture to your eyes which will help get rid of any unwanted material within your eyes. This is a typical medical practice of the Western society.

Cold Water

Bloody noses, though inconvenient, are a common occurrence. The best way for getting rid of a bloody nose is to soak a wash cloth in cold water and while that is happening drench the top of the victim's head in cold water as well. Then, ring the wash cloth out and firmly place it on the victim's forehead, holding it there with pressure until the bleeding stops. Make sure to keep the wash cloth cold, this could mean switching out the wash cloths in order to keep them as cold as possible. This technique originates in the Philippines.

In dealing with bloody noses it is also important to have the victim pinch their nose, and lean forward, NOT BACKWARDS. If the victim tilts their head backwards it will cause all the blood to run down the back of their throat into their stomach and they will eventually vomit up blood. This is a very bad thing, so lean forward and let all the blood out if you have a bloody nose.

Comfrey

Comfrey can be used to treat a wide range of maladies. To treat intestinal illnesses like dysentery or diarrhea, 1/2-1oz of crushed comfrey root can be boiled with 1qt of milk or water. This mix should be taken frequently in wineglass-full doses until the problem clears up. Comfrey is also a good topical treatment. The leaves, mushed up, can be applied to sprains, swelling, boils, and cuts. The entire plant, ground to a pulp and used in a poultice, has been used to sooth tender and inflammed parts of the body, even having been applied raw to ulcers in earlier times.

Common Cold and Bronchitis

A home remedy that one can use is Chamomile tea. This tea is used to or decrease any upper respiratory infections such as colds or bronchitis. Bronchitis is the inflammation of the bronchial tubes. This tea includes the Chamomile plant, honey, and lemon. This can be used to treat colds or bronchitis when one is having any type of symptoms of the common cold or bronchitis. One can continue drinking this tea as long as it takes for the illness to go away completely. One can take as much of this tea because it is not harmful, it is rather good for you. It has antioxidants in it as well. Chamomile can be bought packaged at any big store. A pinch of chamomile is used in a cup sized cup with boiled hot water. A tablespoon of honey is then added with a tablespoon of lemon. This altogether is then mixed together and is set for one to drink. You can drink a cup of this as frequent as three times a day, morning, afternoon, and at night. There are no risks or counter indications that she has heard of. This is most commonly used in the Hispanic culture. This originally came from Mexico used for the same idea, colds and bronchitis. In other words, it is more of a Mexican culture to do although the Chamomile tea itself is a common tea within the American culture. For a picture of the Chamomile flower go to the following website.

In Vietnamese culture, they have a few unique ways of dealing with a common cold. You can eat rice gruel laced with onion. Xông is an herbal steam bath which you take under a blanket. Usually during this process there is a pot sitting with you under the blanket excreting a herbal aroma, and it helps to clear sinuses. This process usually lasts until the pot stops steaming and the sinuses are cleared. Cåo Gio, this is where one rubs a coin or spoon across certain parts of the body, usually the back and sometimes the face. The process of Cåo Gio usually lasts until the areas rubbed turn red. All of these are natural cures however, Cåo Gio can be rather painful. All of these remedies are from the practice of Vietnamese medicine called thuoc nam.

Concentration

Concentration may help to stop hiccups. While hiccuping the first few times is a physical reaction when your diaphragm has an involuntary spasm that causes a quick rush of air to close one's glottis, after the first few, it is a mental reaction. One is able to terminate hiccups simply by reminding themselves that the hiccup is a result of the mind comprehending the onset of hiccups. One must focus intently on the next hiccup: imagining the feeling and picturing the glottis closing with the quick rush of air. If one concentrates long enough, the hiccups will most likely stop.

Corn Starch for Athlete's foot

Athlete's foot is a skin disease caused by a fungus, usually occurring between the toes. The fungus most commonly attacks the feet because shoes create a warm, dark, and humid environment which encourages fungus growth. The warmth and dampness of areas around swimming pools, showers, and locker rooms are also breeding grounds for fungi, hence the name “athlete’s foot”. In treating athlete’s foot with corn starch, one should rub the corn starch on the infected area until the area is completely covered, then leave it sitting for at least 15 min. Repeated actions may be necessary if itching or redness does not recede. Watch for allergenic reactions to corn starch, which may result in further itching and redness. This treatment is most common among the peoples of the southern United States. It is most commonly used by athletes who are constantly under the above described conditions.

Cottage Cheese

A tub of cottage cheese

An application of cottage cheese to the skin that has been affected by stinging nettles is a common way to alleviate the pain associated with the nettles. Apply cold cottage cheese to the area of the body that has had contact with the stinging nettles. Slather the cottage cheese on and leave for 30–45 minutes before removing. Repeat this process every 2–3 hours until relief from pain is experienced. Do not apply this treatment to sensitive areas of the body that are around the eyes, ears, mouth, nose, or genital regions. Mothers in semi-isolated areas of the American Pacific Northwest use this remedy to treat their children who have had skin contact with stinging nettles in their outside play. Mothers believe this treatment to work because the thick consistency of the cottage cheese is supposed to draw out the poison of the stinging nettles thereby alleviating the pain.

Cough Drops

Cough drops provide temporary relief from the common cold and can be used to decrease the symptoms of coughs and sore throats. Specifically, herbal cough drops work increasingly well because they are natural and sooth any symptoms of coughing or sore throat you may have. You can use cough drops once every hour and they will not hurt you. Use a cough drop to give your sickness a temporary relief and once your symptoms return use another cough drop. Suck on them until your throat or cough is feeling better, just make sure you don't get too over-zealous and choke. You should stop using cough drops if your sore throat is severe or if it persists for over a week or experience fever, vomiting, headache, rash, or swelling. This could be serious and you would need to see a doctor immediately and stop using the cough drops. Cough drops are common throughout the world, but they are most often used within Western Culture. American's, especially, like to fool themselves into feeling better, so using cough drops dulls the pain for just a little while. They also help if one is going to sing or give an important speech (or so they like to think).

Corns

A foot corn occurs in areas of pressure and causes a section of thickened skin. The skin thickens in order to protect itself from the excessive pressure that is being applied regularly to that area. This eventually causes a great deal of pain. Corns are normally located on the surface of the toes and often appear between the toes. In order to avoid corns you should avoid wearing shoes that are very tight fitting. This will reduce the pressure on the foot. In order to treat a foot corn you should place a moleskin pad over the corn to allow for some cushioning and relieve some of the pressure that is exerted on the foot. You should also soak your foot with warm water and Epsom salt. This should be done for at least 5 minutes, three times a day. This will help the corn to soften. Another treatment for a foot corn is using a pumice stone on the corn. This is used to file down the corn and remove part or all of it.

Cramps

Most women at some point in their life will experience menstrual cramps. While taking medicine such as Tylenol is good. The best thing to do is to apply heat. Good ways to do this are to take a warm bath, apply a heating blank/pad or to use a hot rice bag. (best if applied to the lower back/tail bone area). The heat helps to lessen the tension in the muscles. A person should do this until the cramps go away or for however long they desire. Cramps usually last 1–3 days so that is the only time when its necessary. You can do this a frequently as you please or are able to. The only problem with this is that its not always convenient. They do have patches that are warm that you can stick to your skin, but I have never tried them. Another risk is that the heating pads can get too hot and can burn you. So be careful. Using heat for cramps are not just for women, it is used in most of the world. Although women in Western societies seem to have more severe cramps, or at least an emphasis on severe cramps, therefore it’s most seen in Western societies.

Menstrual cramps are caused by two kinds of painful menses in which can be cured if done correctly. The pain with menstruation was not taken so seriously back then, but now it is very serious. The time of the month for women is not the best feeling ever which causes headaches, bloating, agitation, and other mood swings. For best results, it is always good to drink a hot cup of tea or water which relieves the discharge that is causing the pain. The cramps help push out the menstrual discharge in which you may come in contact with blobs of blood. Do not worry it is normal for a woman to discharge while on their menstrual period.

Women tend to complain about menstrual cramps and how they affect their body. Sometimes they blame their menstrual cramps that they have gained a few pounds here and there. Menstrual cramps are a dull and aching feeling to the body, especially the lower abdomen. Sometimes this pain may cause vomiting or mind headaches which changes a woman's change of mood. The best results to prevent or calm down a menstrual cramp is to take it at ease, no pressure. If possible, take Midol or Pamprin which are over the counter drugs made for menstrual cramps. Other drugs that are available are also Tylenol and Ibuprofen. Exercising may reduce the pain, but do not put too much pressure during the first couple of days. Walking and yoga are two good examples of exercises that help loosen the muscles but do not over work the body. Overall, menstrual cramps and cramps in general are a regular experience in a person's body whether it be menstrual or not. If the body is taken cared of correctly then the pain may be reduced. Today in the U.S., menstrual cramps are often taken care of by taking over the counter drugs and taking warm baths.

Menstrual cramps are an everyday part of life for most women, and some experience these cramps more frequently and with more pain than others. While there is something to be said for Midol (yes, it just might be Heaven sent), there is always a certain amount of caution that should be observed when taking medications for any sort of pain. At a certain point, one's body becomes used to the prescribed dosage, and then the ante must be upped. This is not necessarily healthy. So, to counteract this scenario, or at least try to prevent it, if one is able, one should look to more natural methods of relieving cramps. Number one, chocolate should be consumed daily during the first few days of menstruation. Okay, kidding... well, half kidding. There are certain ingredients in chocolate that can help, at least indirectly. It may not relieve the cramps themselves, but it certainly helps to improve those mood swings that seem so prevalent during "that time of month." On a more serious note, and in regards to the cramps themselves, exercise is highly recommended. From a swimmer's perspective, vigorous exercise was found to be a wonderful way to not only alleviate the cramps, but regular exercise also helps to make the menstruation period shorter and the flow lighter. Unfortunately, there really is no "cure" for cramps, or any of those symptoms that women may or may not have, but there are certainly ways to make things just a little bit more bearable.

Another quick thing to do that helps alleviate the pain of cramps is water. Water is good for everything, but for some reason it especially helps when it is "that time of the month."

Cranberries

For thousands of years, women have had health issues that reside in the lower region of the stomach near the bladder. These “women’s problems” tend to be very painful and therefore women have long been searching for remedies. This remedy is cranberries. It is thought to have first been used by the Romans while inhabiting what is now England. Although it was not documented until 1578 by herbalist Henry Lyte. The most common species of the cranberry used in America is the “American Cranberry” which is grown in North America. The cranberry has been long studied by scientists and is a remedy for many types of things.

As mentioned earlier, the cranberry is most commonly used for urinary infections. If the infection is caught by the early by the ill person, use of cranberries, by juice or pills, will prevent the infection from turning bacterial and therefore requiring the use of antibiotics and, in severe cases, pain medications as well. Daily ingestion of cranberries, again by juice or supplements, can also prevent urinary tract infections instead of just seizing them. Cranberries due to the same acid, Quinic acid, can also prevent kidney stones, which is the reason that cranberries have a sour taste to them. It is always better to use cranberry juice that is unsweetened or capsules. Capsules are to be used daily during and infection along with frequent ingestion of the cranberry juice. It is also a wise idea to use the capsules daily in an order of prevention although not necessary.

While cranberries are most often used for urinary tract infections and kidney stones, and best known for those particular uses, scientific information shows many other uses of the common cranberry. It has also been known as a good remedy for illnesses including diarrhea, constipation, gout, and rheumatism. In the past, they were used to prevent scurvy. They are also, like most fruits, a good source of vitamin C and fiber. Cranberry has been a useful remedy for thousands of years and still is for many around the world today.

Cranberry Juice

Regular consumption of cranberry juice can lead to regularity of the urinary tract. Besides it's many other healthful properties, cranberries act as prebiotic, and can prevent urinary tract infections. It prevents the growth of harmful bacteria such as E. Coli and promotes the growth of beneficial lactobacillus. This is a common remedy used in Western culture. As an herbal supplement, cranberry juice supports urinary tract health and boosts the immune system with vitamin c. As a major commercial crop in North America, cranberries have become a part of our food habits in Western culture. Dosage is recommend daily with pure cranberry juice, no sugar added.

Cucumbers

Sliced cucumbers have been known to cure swollen and irritated eyes. Just cut the cucumber into thin slices and place over the eyes for 5 minutes. Repeat as needed. If cucumbers arent around, soak a tea bag in cold water and place over the eyes for 5 to 10 minutes, this will also help with swelling.