9 Natural Home Remedies That Work, According to Science

Soothing Chamomile Tea

Sipping warm chamomile tea can provide relief when you’re feeling anxious or having trouble sleeping. The floral flavor is calming, as chamomile has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Research shows it can reduce symptoms of anxiety and insomnia, without groggy side effects.

Honey for Cough and Sore Throat

Honey has been used as a home remedy for centuries to coat and soothe sore throats. Studies confirm it can relieve coughs and ease sore throat pain more effectively than over-the-counter medications. Be sure to give honey to kids over age one.

Ginger for Upset Stomach and Nausea

Ginger root can settle an upset stomach and ease nausea from motion sickness, pregnancy, or chemotherapy. Sipping ginger tea or sucking on ginger candies provides relief without side effects. Ginger appears to reduce inflammation and spasms in the gut.

Aloe Vera Gel for Burns and Skin Irritation

The thick, cooling gel found inside aloe vera leaves can provide soothing relief when applied to minor burns, sunburns, abrasions, and skin irritations. Research shows aloe vera has anti-inflammatory properties that help heal damaged skin cells.

Epsom Salt Baths for Sore Muscles

Soaking in a warm bath with Epsom salts can help relax sore, tight muscles. Epsom salts are made up of magnesium sulfate, and research indicates magnesium plays a key role in regulating muscle contractions and reducing inflammation.

Apple Cider Vinegar for Heartburn

Many natural health advocates suggest adding one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to a glass of water and drinking before meals to prevent heartburn. While evidence is limited, some small studies indicate the acetic acid may reduce acid reflux symptoms.

Honey and Cinnamon for High Blood Sugar

Some research shows that mixing honey and cinnamon powder into tea, oatmeal or yogurt may help lower elevated blood sugar levels. However, more studies are needed to determine impact and ideal dosages.

Coconut Oil for Dry Skin and Frizzy Hair

Using coconut oil to moisturize your skin and condition your hair is an inexpensive natural remedy. Studies indicate coconut oil improves skin hydration and reduces trans-epidermal water loss better than mineral oil.

Garlic Oil for Ear Infections

Research shows that garlic oil displays antimicrobial activity against bacteria that can cause ear infections. To help prevent infection and reduce ear pain, some natural health practitioners recommend putting a few drops of warm garlic oil in the affected ear.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some benefits of natural home remedies?

Some benefits of home remedies include being inexpensive, easy to use, and causing fewer side effects than medications. Many natural ingredients have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory or antimicrobial properties.

Are natural remedies safe?

Most natural home remedies are safe when used appropriately. However, some people may experience allergic reactions. Discontinue use if any irritation develops. Talk to your doctor before using new remedies.

Can I use natural remedies with medications?

Some natural remedies, herbs, and supplements can interact with medications and increase side effects. Always check with your pharmacist or doctor first before using natural remedies with prescription medications.

What are easy home remedies I can try today?

Some easy natural remedies you can try today include sipping chamomile tea for anxiety, using aloe vera gel for minor burns, taking ginger for nausea, massaging sore muscles with Epsom salts, or rinsing with warm salt water for a sore throat.

How long do home remedies take to work?

The amount of time for home remedies to take effect can vary based on the ingredient and method used. While some remedies like honey for a cough may work within a few hours, others like chamomile tea for anxiety may take days or weeks of regular use. Patience is key.