Having some safe and natural at home remedies at your disposal can be invaluable. Here are some tips for what to keep around when health issues arise:
Digestive Troubles
Many of us will succumb to the occasional stomach ache, indigestion and bowel changes. If these are reoccurring issues for you start by supplementing with pancreatic digestive enzymes with meals. If it is the occasional heartburn, deglycyrrhizinated licorice, or DGL, is an antispasmodic that helps to control various muscle actions that can affect your digestive tract. It also helps reduce acid reflux by calming a cramping stomach and increases the protective and soothing substances that line the digestive tract.
For issues of constipation, make sure that you are well hydrated and getting good fiber from fruits and vegetables in your diet. A Castor Oil pack(topical application) is also handy to have around, as it will increase the bowel function and promote bowel movement. If on the other hand you are experiencing loose stool or diarrhea, consider Homeopathic Nux Vomica, especially if the diarrhea is accompanied by nausea and/or vomiting.
Colds/FLU
When you feel like you are coming down with a cold or strong flu, start by taking Homeopathic Oscilloccocinum or a Chinese herb like Yin Qiao. Support your immune system with a good amount of Vitamin C and garlic (both of which have anti-viral properties) and consider using a Neti Pot with Saline if you are experiencing trouble with congestion. Dissolving Raw Honey in tea or hot water can soothe a sore throat...the raw honey also has anti-microbial properties.
Pain
We all experience a headache now and again. The majority of headaches are caused by dehydration, so first make sure you are getting plenty of water. Second, consider using White Willow bark, as it has anti-inflammatory properties similar to that of aspirin. A Castor Oil Pack application would be useful here as well.
For any type of body pain, bump, bruise, muscle ache....Topical Traumeel is invaluable around the house, as is Homeopathic Arnica Montana. Both have great anti-inflammatory and pain relieving properties as well as their ability to promote healing.
Insominia
Lastly, insomnia can be problematic for some on occasion. If you are having trouble catching your ZZZZZ's once in a while, start by having a small snack with a bit of protein and some carbohydrate to keep you blood sugar balanced at night. A bit of peanut or almond butter on whole grain cracker or even half a turkey sandwich are good options. Next, Hylands Homeopathic Calms Forte is great for relieving nervous tension associated with insomnia.
Posted by Lakeshore Wellness Center: Naturopathic Holistic Medicine and Acupuncture in Chicago.
http://www.lakeshorewellnesscenter.com/
http://www.rxacupuncture.com/