By TMoM Team Member Britney Dent
When my children were younger, several relatives often suggested home remedies for any ailment that came about. These remedies used items that were likely already in the pantry, fridge, or medicine cabinet.
When raising multiple children of different ages, there will be all sorts of interesting injuries and illnesses.
Here’s some remedies I’ve learned over the years for a few common concerns:
Bug Bites
- Dryer Sheet: Place a dryer sheet in your pockets. Tear them in half and put in pockets & socks before spending time outside. (Lavender scent seems most effective)
- Baking Soda Paste: Create a paste by mixing baking soda with a small amount of water. Apply the paste directly to the bug bite and let it sit for a few minutes.Rinse off the paste with water. Baking soda can help reduce itching and inflammation.
- Tea Tree Oil: Dab a small amount of tea tree oil onto a cotton ball.Gently apply the oil to the bug bite.Tea tree oil has natural anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties that can help soothe bug bites and promote healing.
Pimples
- Tea Tree Oil: Apply a small amount of diluted tea tree oil to the pimple using a cotton swab.Tea tree oil has antibacterial properties that can help reduce inflammation and fight acne-causing bacteria.
- Aloe Vera Gel: Extract fresh aloe vera gel or use a store-bought gel. Apply the aloe vera gel directly to the pimple and leave it on. Aloe vera has soothing and anti-inflammatory properties that can aid in reducing redness and promoting healing.
- Toothpaste: Some people use toothpaste as a home remedy for pimples, it’s important to be cautious as certain toothpaste ingredients may irritate the skin. If trying toothpaste, use a small amount and choose a plain, white toothpaste without added colors or flavors and dab some on the pimple.
Pink Eye/Conjunctivitis
- Honey Eye Drops: Some people find relief by using honey-based eye drops. Mix a small amount of honey with warm water and use an eyedropper to apply a couple of drops to each eye.
- Chamomile Tea Bags: Place chamomile tea bags in warm water, allow them to cool, and then place them over closed eyelids. Chamomile has anti-inflammatory properties that may provide relief.
Cold/Flu
- Chicken Soup: Chicken soup can help alleviate cold and flu symptoms. The warmth and steam may help clear nasal passages, and the broth provides hydration and nutrients.
- Saltwater Gargle: Mix a teaspoon of salt in warm water and use it to gargle. This can help soothe a sore throat and reduce irritation.
- Steam Inhalation:Inhale steam from a bowl of hot water. You can add a few drops of eucalyptus oil to the water to help clear nasal congestion.
- The “onion in sock”: Take a fresh onion and slice it into thin rounds.Place the onion slices in the bottom of your socks, particularly near the soles of your feet.Wear Overnight:Put on the socks with the onion slices before going to bed.Some people prefer to secure the slices by wearing another pair of socks on top.The belief is that during the night, the compounds
from the onion are absorbed into the skin, and the supposed antimicrobial properties help the body fight off infections or illnesses.
Splinter
- Baking Soda Paste: Mix baking soda with a small amount of water to create a thick paste. Apply the paste to the affected area and cover it with a bandage. After a few hours, the splinter may move closer to the surface, making it easier to remove.
- Duct Tape:Place a piece of duct tape over the splinter and press down firmly. After a few hours, peel off the tape gently. The splinter may come out with the tape. My grandmother used “fat back” meat instead of duct tape but both could work.
- Epsom Salt Soak: Soak the affected area in warm water mixed with Epsom salt. The warm water can help soften the skin, making it easier to remove the splinter.
In addition to the remedies listed here are a few of my favorites to have on hand for a variety of remedies:
- Listerine Mouthwash
- Apple Cider Vinegar (With the “Mother”)
- Breast Milk
- Band-aids
- Chicken Noodle Soup
- Elderberry Syrup (local is best!)
- Ginger Ale (Canada Dry, Vernors. or Schweppes… the choice is yours!)
- Kisses (We all know mom or nana’s kisses heal most “boo-boos”)
- Tea: The Starbucks Copycat Medicine Ball “Sick Tea” has healed everyone in my household at some point (Teavana tea bags, simply lemonade, local honey, etc.)
In short, you can remedy a lot of things you and your children may face by checking the pantry, fridge and medicine cabinet. Keep in mind that it is always a good practice to call the pediatrician when in doubt but try some home remedies too!
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