A simple headache or stomach ache makes us run to the doctor when remedies for most of such minor ailments are right there in our homes. Where? In our kitchen, of course! Naturopath, Dr Richa Dwivedi, says “This system of medicine is aimed at diagnosing and treating ailments, pains and injury through the use of natural elements—Space, Air, Fire, Water and Earth. For treating all these five elements, we need natural herbs that we use in our daily life in different forms.
You just need to know the medicinal values of such things!”Due to modern lifestyle, we are used to taking medicines full of chemicals that saturate our body. But in the field of healthcare, home remedies can check unnecessary synthetic drugging and keep us healthy. Here are some common remedies…
Methi (Phenugreek)
The decoction or the fine powder of methi seeds is an established remedy for dandruff. It tones up the hair and the hair becomes silky and shiny. Fine powder of methi seeds mixed with honey-bee wax relieves chest pain if applied locally. It is a source of iron and B-complex, hence can be used in general weakness.
Regular use of methi powder keeps diabetes in control.
Chhoti Elaichi
It is beneficial for digestive system. It reduces the air and water elements, increases appetite and soothes the membrane. Powdered seeds of Chhoti Elaichi boiled in water or with tea, gives pleasing aroma. It can be used as a remedy for treating depression.
Heeng (asafoetida)
Heeng is useful in treating respiratory disorders like whooping cough, asthma and bronchitis. About 3 to 6 centigram of this gum, mixed with 2 teaspoon of honey, a quarter teaspoon of white onion juice & a teaspoon of betel leaf juice, taken thrice daily would keep the patient away from such disorders. Inhaling this gum prevents hysterical attacks. The herb is extremely used in treatment of nervous system disorders of children.
Heeng (asafoetida)
Heeng is useful in treating respiratory disorders like whooping cough, asthma and bronchitis. About 3 to 6 centigram of this gum, mixed with 2 teaspoon of honey, a quarter teaspoon of white onion juice & a teaspoon of betel leaf juice, taken thrice daily would keep the patient away from such disorders. Inhaling this gum prevents hysterical attacks. The herb is extremely used in treatment of nervous system disorders of children.
The herb is an effective remedy for several diseases of the stomach. In case of flatulence and distension of the stomach asafoetida should be dissolved in hot water and a pad of cloth steeped in it may be used for fomenting abdomen.
Ajwain (carum capticum)
It is the best medicine for gastroenteritis related problem. It has been used in the indigenous medicine system for treating diarrhea, dysentery, dyspepsia, cholera, colic and for indigestion. Ajwain can be eaten with beetle leaves for Flatulence, dyspepsia and spasmodic disorders. Oil extracted from the seeds of Ajwain is a time-tested remedy for treating rheumatism and nuerolical pains.
Taking one-teaspoon ajwain with hot water morning and evening lesson sputum.
Dalchini (cinnamon)
It is an effective remedy for common cold. Coarsely powdered and boiled in a glass of water with a pinch of pepper powder with honey. For curing headaches created by cold, paste of Dalchini powder can be applied on forehead.
Laung (clove)
For curing ear aches, put 3-4 drops of Til oil in which a laung piece is sauted. A teaspoon of decoction prepared by boiling 6 laungs in 30 ml of water can be taken with honey for asthma. Clove oil applied to the cavity of the decayed tooth provides relief.
Adrak (Ginger)
It is known to be a strong antioxidant and therefore able to help prevent breakdown of cartilage. Arthritis patients take about 1 to 2 teaspoons of dry powdered Ginger three times a day. It is also used for nausea and motion sicknesses.
Lehsun (Garlic)
A clove of garlic with a little of rock salt, placed on the affected tooth will relieve the pain. Alternatively you can chew a garlic clove daily in the morning. Garlic is one of the most effective remedies for whooping cough. The syrup of garlic should be given in doses of five drops to a teaspoon, two or three times a day.
Haldi (Turmeric )
The root of the turmeric plant is useful in a dry cough. The root should he roasted and powdered. This powder should be taken in three-gram doses twice daily, in the morning and evening. Regular dose of half teaspoon of turmeric with milk or warm water increases body resistance.
Dhania (Green Coriander leaves)
100-gram green dhania juice with a teaspoon of honey cures Insomnia.
For curing headache, apply paste of green coriander on forehead.