1. Honey for a Sore Throat
Grandma always had honey on hand for sore throats, and she was spot on. Turns out, honey’s natural antibacterial properties can soothe irritation and even help suppress coughing. A spoonful of honey is just as effective (and way tastier) than many over-the-counter cough syrups.
2. Ginger for Nausea
Got an upset stomach? Grandma’s go-to was always ginger, and science agrees. Whether it’s ginger tea or candied ginger, this root has been proven to reduce nausea and ease digestive issues. It’s even been shown to help with morning sickness and motion sickness!
3. Salt Water Gargle for a Sore Throat
Remember the saltwater gargle your grandma swore by when you had a sore throat? Well, it’s more than just an old wives’ tale. Gargling with salt water reduces inflammation, clears out bacteria, and can help soothe throat pain. Simple but effective!
4. Oatmeal for Skin Irritations
Grandma didn’t need fancy lotions—she knew a good oatmeal bath could handle most skin irritations, from eczema to poison ivy. Oats contain anti-inflammatory properties that soothe itchy, irritated skin. Now, many skincare brands include oatmeal in their products, but Grandma’s DIY version is just as good!
5. Apple Cider Vinegar for Digestion
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Just ate a big meal and having issues digesting? A little ACV can help with that, although it may not taste very good. Apple cider vinegar is actually acidic, so it can help raise the level of stomach acid to help aid in digestion.
6. Peppermint for Headaches
Before we had bottles of painkillers, Grandma would suggest peppermint for headaches. Whether you use it in tea or apply peppermint oil to your temples, the menthol in peppermint has been scientifically proven to relieve tension headaches and migraines.
7. Baking Soda for Heartburn
Got heartburn? Grandma might’ve whipped up a glass of water mixed with baking soda, and it turns out she was right. Baking soda neutralizes stomach acid and can provide fast relief for heartburn or indigestion. Just don’t overdo it—moderation is key here!
8. Garlic for a Cold
Whenever you felt a cold coming on, Grandma probably encouraged you to load up on garlic, and modern research backs her up. Garlic contains compounds that boost the immune system and may even reduce the severity of colds. Plus, it’s a delicious way to stay healthy!
9. Epsom Salt for Muscle Aches
Sore muscles after a long day? Grandma would tell you to soak in an Epsom salt bath, and she was right! Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate) can reduce inflammation, relieve tension, and promote relaxation. Now, science is giving Grandma’s favorite remedy the thumbs up.
10. Turmeric for Inflammation
Grandma often recommended turmeric for joint pain and inflammation. The curcumin in turmeric has powerful anti-inflammatory effects and can help relieve arthritis symptoms. Add it to tea or food for a natural way to reduce inflammation.
11. Lemon and Honey for Cough
A classic remedy for coughs is a mix of lemon juice and honey. The lemon provides vitamin C and helps clear mucus, while honey soothes the throat. This combo works wonders for calming a persistent cough.
12. Onion for Cough and Congestion
It might sound strange, but Grandma knew that onions could help with congestion and coughs. Slicing an onion and placing it beside your bed or making onion syrup with honey can help alleviate symptoms. Onions have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can be beneficial.
13. Chamomile Tea for Sleep
Grandma knew that chamomile tea was the key to a good night’s sleep. Chamomile has mild sedative properties that can help you relax and drift off more easily. A warm cup before bed is a timeless way to wind down.
14. Aloe Vera for Burns
Got a minor burn from cooking? Grandma would reach for an aloe vera plant. Aloe vera gel has cooling, soothing, and healing properties that make it perfect for treating burns and skin irritations. It’s nature’s own burn ointment.
15. Clove for Toothache
Cloves have been used for centuries to ease tooth pain, and Grandma always had some on hand. Clove oil contains eugenol, a natural anesthetic and antibacterial agent that can help numb pain and reduce infection. Applying a small amount of clove oil to the affected area can provide quick relief.
16. Prunes for Constipation
Prunes are a classic remedy for constipation, and Grandma was right to keep them stocked. They are high in fiber and contain sorbitol, a natural laxative that helps regulate digestion. A few prunes a day can keep things moving smoothly.
17. Mustard Plaster for Chest Congestion
If you had a chest cold, Grandma might have used a mustard plaster to help loosen up congestion. Mustard has warming properties that can help increase circulation and break up mucus. Just be careful, as mustard can be strong on the skin.
18. Potato Slices for Fever
One of Grandma’s more unusual remedies involved placing potato slices on your forehead to reduce a fever. While this might not have scientific backing, many swear by the cooling effect of raw potatoes to bring down a fever naturally.
These classic home remedies may have sounded old-fashioned, but science now confirms what Grandma always knew—they work! Which one will you be adding to your self-care routine?
