Natural Cures: Mum’s Top Go-To Home Remedies For Common Ailments

The next time you or your little one get sick and it’s too late to head to a drug store or it’s just one of those minor aches and pains, skip the trip to the drug store and head to your kitchen or pantry.

More and more people are starting to embrace nature’s remedies because these time-tested remedies are not only effective but affordable and limits intake of chemical-laden medication.

Below are some of the best and most trusted natural home remedies:

1. 1. Thyme – Have you got a stubborn cough, bronchitis, maybe a sore-throat or feeling a little congested? Thyme, because of thymol and carvacrol and expectorant properties has a pronounced effect on one’s respiratory system. It also acts as a powerful antimicrobial that aids in fighting properties. How to make thyme tea: steep 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh) in 1 cup of water for 10 minutes; strain and drink up to three cups daily. For an improved flavor, add a bit of licorice or mint.
2. 2. Peppermint – Peppermint can be used to treat an upset stomach or indigestion because the menthol acts as an antispasmodic treatment with an added cooling effect. It’s multi-purpose with the menthol extract able to treat congestion and colds. It may also alleviate pain when applied topically. As a warning, do not use on babies and infants and refrain from inhaling for long durations.
3. 3. Baking Soda – Bug bites can be tackled with baking soda as the alkaline helps to counter the acidic swelling. Mix 1 teaspoon of the powder with a bit of water until its consistency is like a thick paste. Apply on the bite and leave to dry.
4. 4. Chamomile Tea – This is heaven sent for hyperactivity and works like a calming agent. Chamomile tea can also be given to colic babies but no more than about 4 ounces a day. The tea can relax intestinal muscles and soothe the internal feelings of individuals. Even adults use chamomile tea; try taking in a cup after a meal, it’ll calm you down and help with digestion. You can steep tea for four to five minutes and consume after cooling.
5. 5. Ginger – Ginger extract may provide alleviation if you or someone else is feeling joint and muscle pain. Its phytochemicals stops inflammation and also able to provide relief from stomach upset, motion sickness and nausea. Do be careful to take in moderation. For older children and adults, ginger tea is made with 2 teaspoons of fresh grated ginger per cup of boiling water.
6. 6. Oatmeal – Oatmeal isn’t only for breakfast, you know. For centuries, oatmeal has been a known skin-remedy. The avenanthramides in the oats can calm itchy, inflamed and dry skin. If your kid has chicken pox, eczema or is struggling with rashes, oatmeal might be able to help. Put the whole oats in a clean, dry sock and seal one end and drop into a warm/ hot bath. Soak in the water for a good 15-20 minutes.
7. 7. Ginseng – We’ll save the best for last. Ginseng is considered in Asian countries as a “cure-all” tonic. It has anti-fatigue properties that will strengthen and enhance one’s muscle tissue for more energy.
8. The great thing about home remedies is that they’re not only reactionary go-to cures, by incorporating healthy herbs and products to your regular diet, you can also prevent illnesses before they start.

If your child has a special condition or is dealing with something more serious, please contact a physician but for minor aches and injuries, consider these easy and smart solutions that are usually readily available in the home.

Lastly, as a reminder for all parents and caregivers, don’t remember the most basic of all home comforts – combat common ailments with plenty of rest to help your body recover and by drinking lots of fluids to replenish what’s been lost and flush out the toxins.

Do you have any of your own home remedies that you can share with us?

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Experts in Developing Every Child Reach Their Full Potential for children from prenatal to 6 years of age.

About Brainy Child Education
Brainy Child Education is a privately owned company based in Melbourne, Australia. It is a team of professional parents with early childhood teaching, midwifery, research, business, law, and other qualifications, and over 30 years’ experience in early childhood teaching and research. The team supplies Multi-Award-Winning Learning Systems and Teaching Tools in Reading, Math, Music, and Foreign Languages for children from age 0 to 6 years.