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Grandma’s Wisdom: 10 Home Remedies That Might Surprise You
Navigating the world of health advice can feel like a battlefield, especially when caught between generations. Grandma swears by her home remedies, while modern medicine offers a different approach.
So, who do you listen to? Let’s explore 10 non-traditional remedies your grandparents likely championed, and see if there’s any science behind the tradition.
1. Chicken Soup: This comforting classic needs no introduction.
Grandma’s go-to for practically everything, chicken soup’s reputation for soothing the soul and the body might actually have some merit. Research suggests certain components can indeed offer relief from cold symptoms.
2. Warm Salt Water: More than just the base of a good chicken soup, warm salt water gargles are a time-honored tradition for sore throats. While not a cure, the salt can help reduce inflammation and ease pain.
3. Witch Hazel: Don’t worry, no spells required!
This plant-based remedy can be used to treat various ailments, from swelling and bruises to hemorrhoids. While effective, we’ll leave the newt tails out of this one.
4. Bactine: A favorite among older generations, Bactine was once considered a cure-all. While we wouldn’t recommend drinking it (seriously, don’t), it remains a useful antiseptic for minor cuts and wounds, helping to prevent infection and soothe itching.
5. Saltines and 7-Up: A classic combo for upset stomachs, this dynamic duo can offer relief through simple mechanisms.
The carbonation in 7-Up helps release pressure through burping, while bland saltines provide easily digestible sustenance. The crackers may also absorb excess stomach acid and replenish electrolytes.
6. Cold Tea Bags on the Eyes: Move over cucumbers, there’s a new eye-soother in town! The caffeine in tea can constrict blood vessels, reducing puffiness and redness around the eyes.
7. Oatmeal Bath: Beyond breakfast, oatmeal boasts skin-protecting properties, thanks to its FDA-regulated status. Soaking in an oatmeal bath can offer relief from itchy conditions like chickenpox and eczema.
8. Apple Cider Vinegar: A popular addition to hot tea for cold relief, apple cider vinegar does have some scientifically-backed health benefits.
However, its strong taste can be a deterrent. Is the potential relief worth the vinegar tang?
You decide.
9. Mercurochrome: Once a popular antiseptic, Mercurochrome fell out of favor due to its mercury content and was eventually banned by the FDA. Thankfully, safer alternatives are now available.
10. Chewing Gum: Okay, maybe not exclusively a grandparent remedy, but chewing gum can surprisingly help dislodge that annoying earworm stuck in your head. Try it, it works!
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