Home Remedies & Natural Medicinals  

The women provided much of the medicine used during the war and reconstruction. From the woods, they brought Calamus Root, May Apple, Butterfly Weed, Dogwood Bark for quinine, Cherry Bark, and Sassafras for tea. Some of these were placed in whiskey for a tonic, Poppyseed were used for a narcotic, and Sheep Sorrel for salve.

Excerpt from an article written for the WPA, by Mrs. Rachel McSwain Fullilove.
Many simple remedies can be found in the grocery store or feed store.
  • Gentian Violet for thrush and fungal infections and more, below.
  • Bag Balm can be used by humans for dry skin, and other skin conditions.
and of course foraging. Also something as simple as lemon and honey can be used for a cough, or sore throat.
One of my remedies I often use is just a crushed garlic clove in my tea, when I have a sore throat. I've also use garlic oil mixed with Sweet Oil for earaches.

​"Sweet oil," often referring to olive oil, is used as a folk remedy for various ailments, including earwax softening, earache relief, and as a moisturizer. [1, 2, 3]  
Here's a more detailed look at some of the common uses of sweet oil: 
1. Earwax Softening and Earache Relief: [4]  

• How it works: Sweet oil, or olive oil, is believed to soothe pain and reduce ear inflammation. [4]  
• Application: Some people use warm sweet oil drops to relieve earache or to soften earwax. [1, 4]  
• Important Note: Never use sweet oil in the ear if there is a eardrum perforation or infection. [4]  

2. Moisturizer and Skin Soother: [3]  

• How it works: Sweet oil helps the skin retain moisture naturally. 
• Application: It can be used as a moisturizer, a substitute for shaving cream, or a hair treatment for dry or brittle hair. 
• Other Uses: Sweet oil can also be used to soften and moisturize cuticles. [3]  

Generative AI is experimental.

[1] https://www.healthline.com/health/sweet-oil-for-ears[2] https://www.verywellfit.com/sweet-oil-health-benefits-and-nutrition-4164298[3] https://www.walmart.com/ip/Humco-Olive-Sweet-Oil-All-Natural-with-Dropper-Softens-Ear-Wax-1-oz-4-Pack/806122632[4] https://www.earpros.com/blog/essential-oils-for-ear-infection
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Honeysuckle, particularly Japanese honeysuckle, has been used in traditional medicine for its potential anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and antimicrobial properties, with applications ranging from treating infections to promoting skin health. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]  
Here are some examples of how honeysuckle has been used for remedies: 
Traditional Uses & Potential Benefits: [1, 4]  

• Infections: Honeysuckle is traditionally used to treat upper respiratory infections, stomach upset, and fever. [1, 4]  
• Inflammation: It's considered a cooling herb and used to treat inflammation, both internally and externally, with applications like poultices for skin irritation. [1, 6]  
• Skin Conditions: Honeysuckle can be used externally for sores, swellings, ulcerations, boils, acne, and rosacea. [6]  
• Antiviral and Antimicrobial Properties: Some studies suggest that honeysuckle may have antiviral and antimicrobial effects. [1, 2, 4, 5]  
• Other Traditional Uses: In traditional Chinese medicine, honeysuckle is used to treat damp or heat dysenteric disorders and urinary dysfunction. [7]  
• Antioxidant Properties: Honeysuckle berries contain antioxidants that may protect against heart diseases and gastrointestinal problems. [2]  
• Natural Preservative: Honeysuckle can be used as a natural preservative in skincare products. [5]  
• Mental Health: In the context of Bach Flower Remedies, honeysuckle is used to help people move forward and not dwell on the past. [8, 9, 10]  

Important Considerations: [11]  

• Scientific Evidence: While traditional uses are numerous, more scientific evidence is needed to fully support all claims. [11]  
• Toxicity: Honeysuckle is generally considered low in toxicity, but some species can cause gastrointestinal upset, vomiting, and lethargy. [12]  
• Interactions: If considering using honeysuckle for medicinal purposes, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medication. [3, 11]  
• Species: There are many species of honeysuckle, and not all are edible or have the same medicinal properties. Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica) and common honeysuckle (Lonicera periclymenum) are among the more well-known species. [12, 13, 14]  

Generative AI is experimental.

[1] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2SEdaEYF084[2] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7037556/[3] https://www.rxlist.com/supplements/honeysuckle.htm[4] https://www.greenshieldorganic.com/honeysuckle-benefits-and-uses/[5] https://www.puristry.com/blogs/the-routine/japanese-honeysuckle-as-a-natural-preservative[6] https://www.herbalreality.com/herb/honeysuckle/[7] https://www.herbs2000.com/herbs/herbs_honeysuckle.htm[8] https://www.phiessences.com/en/Bachflower-Remedies/Honeysuckle-Flower-Essence.html[9] https://www.hsconline.co.uk/products/honeysuckle-bach-flower[10] https://homeomart.com/products/hahnemann-bach-flower-honey-suckle-for-homesickness-nostalgia-bereavement[11] https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-512/honeysuckle[12] https://www.animalpoisonline.co.uk/blogs/2021/10/26/honeysuckle/[13] https://thehazeltree.co.uk/2021/09/06/honeysuckle/[14] https://www.diffordsguide.com/encyclopedia/1695/bws/bartenders-guide-to-foraging-honeysuckle[-] https://www.lazada.com.my/products/qf-qi-foong-bombax-ceiba-i4010507424.html
Not all images can be exported from Search.
Common Home Remedies: [1]
For Sore Throat: [1]
  • Gargle with warm salt water
  • Drink warm liquids, such as tea or broth
  • Suck on lozenges or hard candy
  • Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air [2, 3, 4, 5]
For Cold and Flu: [6]
Get plenty of rest, Drink plenty of fluids, Take vitamin C supplements, Use a nasal spray or neti pot, and Consume chicken soup or ginger tea. [6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13]
For Cough: [14]
  • Use a cough suppressant, such as honey or eucalyptus oil
  • Drink warm liquids
  • Take a steam shower [15, 16, 17, 18]
For Stomach Upset: [9]
  • Drink plenty of fluids
  • Eat bland foods, such as rice, toast, or bananas
  • Take an over-the-counter antacid
  • Use a heating pad on your stomach [9, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24]
For Skin Irritation: [25, 26]
Apply a cold compress, Use a soothing lotion or cream, and Avoid scratching or touching the irritated area. [27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32]
Other Common Home Remedies: [33]
  • Use lemon juice to lighten dark spots
  • Apply honey to burns for healing
  • Use turmeric to reduce inflammation
  • Apply cucumber slices to reduce puffiness under the eyes
  • Drink chamomile tea for relaxation [34, 35, 36, 37, 38, 39]
Important Note: [40]
While home remedies can be helpful, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional if symptoms worsen or persist. Some home remedies may interact with medications or have potential side effects. [40, 41, 42, 43]

[1] https://www.ndtv.com/health/home-remedies-for-sore-throat-try-this-simple-ginger-garlic-drink-for-quick-relief-2242800
[2] https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/home-remedies-cold-remedies-that-work/
[3] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/325961
[4] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/how-to-help-sore-throats
[5] https://www.healthline.com/health/homemade-humidifier
[6] https://www.piedmont.org/living-real-change/9-natural-cold-and-flu-remedies
[7] https://www.webmd.com/balance/ss/slideshow-home-remedies
[8] https://www.healthline.com/health/home-remedies
[9] https://www.childrens.com/health-wellness/home-remedies-for-cough-in-kids-infographic
[10] https://www.nytimes.com/article/flu-cold-home-remedies.html
[11] https://resources.healthgrades.com/right-care/cold-and-flu/how-to-treat-the-flu-at-home
[12] https://www.spirehealthcare.com/health-hub/specialties/lifestyle-management/10-foods-that-can-help-boost-your-immune-system/
[13] https://www.amazon.com/PREVENCIA-Protection-Homeopathic-Non-Drowsy-Immediate/dp/B0BRR2SH2G
[14] https://www.prospan.com.au/chesty-coughs/home-remedies-for-persistent-coughs/
[15] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322394
[16] https://intermountainhealthcare.org/blogs/natural-relief-home-remedies-for-your-cold
[17] https://www.verywellhealth.com/cough-medicines-1298409
[18] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9742825/
[19] https://www.cnet.com/health/nutrition/upset-stomach-these-6-natural-remedies-may-help/
[20] https://www.mskcc.org/experience/patient-support/nutrition-cancer/diet-plans-cancer/bland-diet
[21] https://www.chsbuffalo.org/blog/5-steps-for-acid-reflux/
[22] https://www.webmd.com/heartburn-gerd/treating-heartburn-over-counter-medicine
[23] https://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/remedies-stomach-pain
[24] https://www.usatoday.com/story/tech/reviewed/2021/10/19/flu-season-essentials-ease-symptoms-cold-flu-covid-19/8520931002/
[25] https://www.kaplansinusrelief.com/blog/natural-treatments-seasonal-allergies/
[26] https://curology.com/blog/everything-you-need-to-know-about-irritated-skin/
[27] https://khealth.com/learn/rash/home-remedies/
[28] https://www.goodrx.com/conditions/eczema/living-with-eczema-abby-tai
[29] https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/video/default.htm
[30] https://www.minifirstaid.co.uk/blog/how-to-treat-nettle-stings-in-babies-and-children
[31] https://cosmeticfacial.co.uk/page/1303
[32] https://www.unichem.co.nz/post/staying-safe-in-the-sun-tips-for-being-sun-smart
[33] https://newtownnursing.com/the-common-cold-and-cough-a-prevailing-health-issue-in-india/
[34] https://www.hollandandbarrett.com/the-health-hub/natural-beauty/clean-beauty/clean-beauty-skincare/lemon-juice-skin/
[35] https://www.healthline.com/health/toothpaste-on-burns
[36] https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/food-news/what-to-eat-and-what-to-avoid-if-you-have-sinus/articleshow/68684677.cms
[37] https://www.oscarwylee.com.au/glasses/eye/sore/remedies
[38] https://www.dermla.com/sbcblog/five-goodbyes-to-puffy-eyes/
[39] https://www.allinahealth.org/healthysetgo/heal/natural-remedies-for-everyday-illnesses
[40] https://www.henryford.com/blog/2020/07/home-remedies-the-good-and-the-bad
[41] https://www.webmd.com/balance/ss/slideshow-home-remedies
[42] https://www.lvhn.org/news/some-natural-remedies-may-not-be-safe-you-think
[43] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/315239
Gentian Violet is commonly used for:
  • Marking the skin for surgery preparation and allergy testing;
  • Treating Candida albicans and related fungal infections, such as thrush, yeast infections, various types of tinea (ringworm, athlete's foot, jock itch);
  • Treating impetigo; it was used primarily before the advent of antibiotics, but still useful to persons who may be allergic to penicillin.
In resource-limited settings, gentian violet is used to manage burn wounds,  inflammation of the umbilical cord stump (omphalitis) in the neonatal period, oral candidiasis in HIV-infected patients and mouth ulcers in children with measles.

Via: Wikipedia
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Balms used for remedies can include those with ingredients like calendula, lavender, lemon balm, chamomile, and essential oils like menthol or eucalyptus, often used for soothing skin, muscle pain, or promoting relaxation. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8]
Here's a more detailed look at some examples:
Herbal Balms and Salves: [3, 5, 7, 9]
  • Calendula: Known for its soothing and healing properties, calendula is often used in balms and salves to treat minor wounds, burns, and skin irritations. [3, 5, 7, 9]
  • Lavender: Lavender essential oil is known for its calming and analgesic properties, making it a popular ingredient in balms for promoting relaxation and relieving pain. [3, 5, 10]
  • Lemon Balm: Lemon balm, a member of the mint family, is used for its calming and soothing effects, and is sometimes used in balms to help with stress and anxiety. [1, 11]
  • Chamomile: Chamomile is known for its anti-inflammatory and soothing properties, making it a good choice for balms used to calm irritated skin or promote relaxation. [7, 12]
  • Echinacea: Echinacea is a flower found in North America that has antiviral properties and may be used in balms to help with cold sores. [13]
  • Turmeric: Turmeric has been used as a traditional remedy in India, China, and other Southeast Asian countries to treat asthma, cold etc also as an ointment, paste for scabies, boils, bruises, etc. [14]
  • Honey: Honey has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a good choice for balms used to soothe and heal minor wounds. [3]
  • Rosemary: Rosemary is known for its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, making it a good choice for balms used to soothe sore muscles and joints. [6]
  • St. John's Wort: St. John's Wort is known for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a good choice for balms used to soothe irritated skin or promote relaxation. [6]
  • Valerian: Valerian is known for its calming and soothing properties, making it a good choice for balms used to promote relaxation and improve sleep. [1, 6]
Topical Pain Relief Balms: [2, 4, 8]
  • Tiger Balm: A well-known brand, Tiger Balm contains ingredients like menthol and camphor, which create a cooling or warming sensation that can help relieve muscle and joint pain. [2, 4, 8]
  • Zandu Balm: Another popular topical analgesic, Zandu Balm contains ingredients like menthol and eucalyptus oil, which have cooling properties that can soothe sore muscles and joints. [8]
  • Aquaphor: Aquaphor is a multi-purpose skin care product that provides immediate relief and protects to help heal chapped, chafed or very dry skin. [15]
  • Doctor Rogers Restore Healing Balm: This balm is designed to create a cure-all solution for skin ailments like burns, rashes, eczema, and scarring. [16]
  • Skinfix Eczema+ Targeted Body Balm: This balm is specifically designed to help treat eczema and other skin conditions. [16]

[1] https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/herb/lemon-balm
[2] https://www.healthline.com/health/tiger-balm-uses
[3] https://www.madeforlifeorganics.com/products/sore-skin-relief-balm-propolis-50ml
[4] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323771
[5] https://www.laurelskin.com/product/recovery-balm/
[6] https://www.herbsfitlife.com/shop/muscle-joint-herbal-balm
[7] https://www.herbalreality.com/herbalism/home-herbalism/making-medicines/how-to-make-salve/
[8] https://www.alleviatepainclinic.com/blog/top-10-most-commonly-used-pain-relief-gels-in-india-product-review/
[9] https://www.whipbirdenvironmental.com.au/articles/growing-harvesting-and-using-calendula
[10] https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324572
[11] https://draxe.com/nutrition/lemon-balm/
[12] https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/generalized-anxiety-disorder/expert-answers/herbal-treatment-for-anxiety/faq-20057945
[13] https://www.medicinenet.com/16_best_antiviral_herbs_supplements_boost_immune/article.htm
[14] https://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&profile=ehost&scope=site&authtype=crawler&jrnl=09752366&AN=155797043&h=lmkDHg6yHaBdMmzmUWKNPC2GWIxOE5w/eWLbJOMsn4rjMipHAtTTboqOtC9brzPApQy8TqJ31gKA65o5idp4Ag%3D%3D&crl=f
[15] https://www.aquaphorus.com/products/aquaphor-repairing-ointment/aquaphor-healing-balm-stick-065oz



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