Folk Home Remedies

Folk Home Remedies
Photo Credit sugar image by Randy McKown from Fotolia.com

Home folk remedies have enjoyed a rich history in most cultures for thousands of years. Folk remedies passed down from one generation to the next utilize natural remedies for ailments ranging from the common cold to coughs, digestive issues and hormone production, according to Earth Clinic, a website dedicated to folk remedies. Flowers, plants and parts of trees, including roots, bark and leaves are often combined to create effective and natural remedies to treat a variety of physical illnesses and symptoms.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a commonly used home folk remedy for treatment and relief of allergies, fatigue, high cholesterol, arthritis and a variety of skin conditions, according to Earth Clinic. Apple cider vinegar is also used to treat digestive issues like diarrhea and constipation, and even help treat high blood sugar levels, according to Home Remedies Web, a site dedicated to natural cures and home remedies. Apple cider vinegar can be taken in an all-natural liquid form or in supplement capsule form, purchased from local health food stores.

Cayenne Pepper

Although most people wouldn't think of swallowing cayenne pepper to ease a sore throat, this spice is actually a well-known folk remedy. Sore throats caused by colds, yelling, or long periods of singing or talking can be eased by drinking an infusion of cayenne pepper and hot water. The folk remedy can be made by dropping about 1/4 tsp. of cayenne pepper into 1 cup of hot or boiling water, suggests Health 911, a resource for common folk remedies. Individuals can add a few drops of lemon juice to improve taste if desired. Sip the drink slowly for almost instant relief.

Baking Soda

Baking soda is a common item found in most kitchens around the world. Used mainly for baking, baking soda is also useful in creating a variety of folk remedies. One common use of baking soda is in the treatment of athlete's foot. Blend a good amount, about 1/4 cup, into a shallow pan of water for a foot bath. Place the feet in the foot bath for about 1/2 hour every day until symptoms improve. Individuals can also sprinkle baking soda onto freshly washed feet and into clean socks before wearing to help restore natural pH to the skin, suggests Health 911.

Sugar

Most people don't think of sugar as having any medicinal value, but actually, sugar is known to be an effective disinfectant, according to Health 911. Sugar can be sprinkled onto cuts and skin ulcers to not only accelerate the healing process, but also to kill bacteria.

References

Article reviewed by Taran March Last updated on: May 3, 2010

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