In the age of COVID, it’s a good idea to seek medical help for serious symptoms. But many simple and common ailments can be alleviated by the natural remedies found in your kitchen cabinet. Here’s a peek into some of the health aids many doctors keep on hand at home.
- Ginger – Clinical studies have shown that the chemicals in ginger are effective in relieving the nausea, stomach cramps and bloating associated with the common stomach flu. You can grate or sprinkle it into soups or stews, chew a bit of fresh ginger or swallow a ginger capsule.
- Brown Rice – If you suffer from diarrhea, you may be able to ease the problem by cooking some brown rice in twice the amount of water called for. Then strain it and once the water is cool, drink it to replace the electrolytes you’ve lost.
- Cinnamon and Honey – If you feel a cold coming on, fight it by drinking decaffeinated tea laced with cinnamon, which is a powerful antioxidant, and a teaspoon of honey.
- Oregano – This common spice is a concentrated source of antioxidants, which help to reduce inflammation and soothe a stomach ache. Steep a teaspoon or two of fresh or dried oregano in eight ounces of hot water for about 10 minutes.
- Frozen Veggies – If you are feeling anxious or suspect that a panic attack is coming on, hold a cooling eye mask such a bag of frozen veggies over your eyes for at least 30 seconds. The shock will help slow down your racing mind and activate your parasympathetic nervous system, which calms the physical symptoms of anxiety.
- Garlic – Studies suggest that garlic has immune-boosting properties. Mince or crush one to three cloves and leave them exposed to the air for a few minutes. This boosts a sulfur compound called allicin, which acts like an antimicrobial to kill viruses and bacteria. But heating can destroy allicin, so add the garlic to your food at the very end of cooking.
