Home Remedies: Treating Common Health Problems May Not Require Leaving Your House Family Health

There was a time that whenever one of my kids was sick or uncomfortable, I ran to the pharmacy to grab something to help them feel better. Over time, heating pads and cool packs disappear, ear drops and throat lozenges expire. And then something inevitably happens, usually at 3 a.m., and you’re scrambling to help your child feel better. In the last week alone I’ve treated a serious sunburn and the worst kind of period cramps. I didn’t leave the house to treat either daughters’ pain or discomfort.

I always keep things like ibuprofen or acetaminophen in the cupboard because they are hard to replicate, but here are some home remedies that saved me many times:

• Serious Sunburn: A field trip to the beach on a very hot day, and even with a couple of sunscreen applications, still my daughter was left with the worst burn she’s ever had. Ibuprofen was administered first because it helps with inflammation. Then, an Epsom salt cool bath that evening, and aloe vera gel afterwards began her healing. Also, two dish cloths that were dampened then put in fridge while she bathed were laid across her back and shoulders while she slept that first night. Each night we did it again and I’m happy to say on day four the blisters had disappeared and she slept on her back. All of the things that made her feel better were in the kitchen or medicine cabinet – we never made a trip to the doctor or pharmacy, not once.

• Serious Period Cramps:  Any women who has experienced a bad bout of period cramps knows the pain is awful. Debilitating at times. When my girls started menstruating a few years ago, I ran to the pharmacy and bought hot water bottles, and where they went I’ll never know. So one night when the stores were closed and I had to be creative (not really, but I’ll give myself some credit here) I threw a wet towel in the microwave. When it was super hot I grabbed an oven mitt and plopped the towel into a large plastic zipper bag, wrapped it in a pillow case and – voila! – heating pad. I’ve used them over and over again and it costs zero dollars, and I can throw them together in less than five minutes. All the items are always accessible. And yes, ibuprofen as needed. Just used one today.

• Earaches: Olive oil warmed up or a warm cloth. Or candle wax.

• Gauze for Tooth Removal: Tea bags moistened and folded. Black tea bags can even assist in healing.

• Swollen or Minor Sprains: Frozen bag of peas or ice cubes in a plastic storage bag.

For serious cases, a call to the doctor is warranted. But so many things can be handled with a little creative thinking and, of course, there’s always Google in a pinch.

The information on 30Seconds.com is for informational and entertainment purposes only, and should not be considered medical advice. The information provided through this site should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease, and is not a substitute for professional care. Always consult your personal healthcare provider.

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