When pain occurs or an injury happens, it is important to first take medication or visit a hospital. However, if the symptoms are mild and can be managed sufficiently in daily life, combining dietary therapy or simple natural remedies at home can also be a way to alleviate symptoms. Among the common foods found at home, many have various health benefits. Let’s explore useful ‘food natural remedies’ for everyday use.
◆ ‘Honey’ Minor Scrapes
Honey has been widely used as a natural sweetener for wound treatment since ancient times. In particular, honey has three main actions that help with wound healing. The sugars draw moisture away, creating an environment where bacteria find it difficult to thrive, the waxy component propolis inhibits bacteria, and as honey dries, it provides a bandage-like effect that naturally protects the wound.
◆ ‘Ginger’ Stomach Upset, Nausea
Ginger has been used as a natural remedy for relieving stomach pain since ancient times. It is particularly effective in soothing mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as motion sickness, morning sickness, and nausea. To make ginger tea, add about 1 tablespoon of freshly grated ginger to hot water and steep for about 10 minutes before straining.
◆ ‘Salt’ Athlete's Foot
Saline solution helps inhibit the growth of fungi that can easily occur due to excessive sweating. At the same time, it softens the skin, allowing antifungal medication to be absorbed better. Dissolving about 2 tablespoons of salt in 500cc of warm water and soaking your feet for 5-10 minutes is effective.
◆ ‘Olive Oil’ Dry Skin
Olive oil is rich in anti-inflammatory antioxidants and is widely used as a natural moisturizer. It does not contain the chemical ingredients found in commercial moisturizers, so there is no worry about skin irritation. Gently apply about 1 tablespoon to dry or irritated areas to form a protective barrier that prevents moisture evaporation. When symptoms are severe, wrapping the area with plastic wrap after applying olive oil and leaving it overnight can also be helpful.
◆ ‘Aloe Vera’ Sunburn
Aloe vera is rich in plant sterols, which help lower cholesterol levels, and it also has excellent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects. For this reason, it is commonly used when skin troubles arise. In particular, aloe vera stored in gel form in the refrigerator helps quickly soothe and recover the skin from mild sunburn caused by sunlight.
◆ ‘Milk’ Anxiety Symptoms
A warm glass of milk before bed can help reduce anxiety and alleviate insomnia. The amino acid tryptophan found in milk stabilizes the nerves and induces deep sleep.
◆ ‘Chrysanthemum Tea’ Calluses, Corns
When calluses or corns develop on the feet, soaking them in diluted chrysanthemum tea is effective. The components of chrysanthemum tea soften hardened skin and help alleviate calluses. However, be sure to wash thoroughly after use, as it may leave a stain on the feet.
