Taking care of our health isn’t just about doctor’s visits and blood tests. It is estimated that 80% of healthcare is done in our homes by loved ones. When we begin to see healthcare as all the things we do everyday to treat ourselves and keep us healthy it becomes obvious. So the real question is how do you want to treat those everyday issues? One way is with simple, natural remedies found in your kitchen!
Things like onions, lemons and honey can be first aid for a variety of ailments. Here are a few simple things you can do at home:
Earaches
Earaches are infections of the inner or outer ear signified by pain, redness and sometimes itchiness around the outer ear. If the pain becomes severe or is prolonged, consult a medical practitioner.
Generally, earaches are accompanied by colds and flus. Treat the related symptoms and eliminate foods that may be congesting to the eardrums. Dairy, sugar and citrus products (with the exception of lemons and grapefruit) are the primary culprits. Then try the following:
- Hot Onion Packs: Hot onion packs are an old-fashioned remedy that really works. Wrap hot sautéed onions in a flannel cloth and apply directly to both ears. Reheat the onions as needed. Leave the hot onion pack on for 30-45 minutes, longer if possible.
- Hot Salt Packs: If the onion pack doesn’t work, heat some salt in a cast-iron skillet; when the salt is too hot to touch, pour it onto a dishcloth or cotton cloth. Using other towels to protect against the heat, place against the ear for at least 30 minutes.
The Versatile Aloe
The fresh gel from the aloe vera plant is easy to extract. Choose a large succulent leaf and slice it carefully off the mother plant. (The plant will ooze a gel-like substance from the location of the cut, which will heal itself within a few hours.) Slice along the edge of the leaf lengthwise (cutting only as far as you need to for one application of gel). Scoop out the gel from the interior of the leaf, scraping the skin clean. This gel can be applied directly to any burn, wound or rash. If you don’t use the entire leaf, wrap the remainder in plastic wrap and store it in the refrigerator, it will keep for several months.
