Home remedies tips and tricks

We all have our own home remedies to help when we are developing a cold, for example, or if we have a stomach ache. And a lot of these little tips and tricks have origins that can be traced back in history, with herbs and spices grown and used to treat common everyday ailments. Whilst there is not necessarily any medical evidence to prove that these work, they are handed down from generation to generation and are having a resurgence in popularity, with fruit and vegetable smoothies, healing teas and regenerative juices enhanced with ingredients such as honey and turmeric becoming increasingly popular. Below are some examples of home remedies using common herbs and spices.

Ginger is good for digestion, nausea and common colds

Regarded as one of the healthiest spices on earth, ginger is full of nutrients and bioactive compounds, including gingerol, which can benefit both mind and body. It can be used fresh, dried, or powdered and is a popular ingredient in recipes. You could try adding it to tea, to treat nausea, or eat it in a biscuit or put in in a smoothie to help improve digestion.

Honey’s healing properties

Known as the nectar of the gods, honey has been used as a cure for many ailments for thousands of years. Its high sugar produces hydrogen peroxide and other antibacterial chemicals and it is claimed that it can help speed up the growth of body tissues by encouraging the formation collagen and new blood vessels. Mixing it with other fruits and herbs can enhance its healing properties: for example, you can try combining it with lemons, rosemary and mint, ginger and cinnamon, plus hot water to help ease a sore throat, or mixing it with brown sugar to scrub off dry skin.

Lavender helps relieve stress

The calming influence of the aroma of lavender has been used since ancient times to help relieve the symptoms of stress and anxiety. Even inhaling the scent of fresh lavender brings an almost immediate feeling of relaxation, and you can burn a candle, or add a few drops of lavender oil to your wrist to enhance your sense of wellbeing. Its antiseptic and anti-fungal properties make ideal to help with mild skin disorders, and it can be used as an insect repellent and relieve aching muscles. Sleep can be improved too, simply by spraying your pillow with the fragrance or having a massage that includes lavender oil.

Garlic can help lower blood pressure

The health benefits of garlic have long been known and its simple to add it to all sorts of easy-to-cook recipes and home remedies. Regarded as one of the most valuable foods on the planet, its anti-oxidant properties promote the well-being of the immune system and the heart as well as encouraging healthy blood circulation. It can even be taken in pill form if you do not like the taste in food.