You would not believe how many ailments can be treated without ever leaving your house. From the spice rack to common ingredients and garden-variety plants and herbs, you can treat and cure many ailments without trips to the drugstore. There’s also a host of oils and homeopathics covered in this appendix that are readily available at your local natural store or online. Get ready to be amazed by what cranberry and garlic (and a host of other common ingredients and products) can do for your child.
1. Basil
Basil is an herb that is also a natural expectorant. It is helpful in treating illnesses that involve excess mucus, such as a cold. It may also help soothe earaches and provide relief from indigestion.
2. Cayenne Pepper
Cayenne pepper has anti-inflammatory properties, which are beneficial for the management of allergies, arthritis, and diabetes. It is also known to alleviate headaches, lower blood pressure, and promote healthy cholesterol levels. Additionally, cayenne pepper may encourage proper circulation in the body.
3. Cinnamon
Cinnamon boosts memory recall and is thought to improve cognition and has a regulatory effect on blood sugar, making it beneficial for those with type 2 diabetes. It is known for its cardiovascular benefits, as cinnamon consumption is thought to reduce the risk of heart attack and heart disease. It can also help to lower LDL cholesterol.
4. Clove
Clove has proven to be useful in the treatment of fungal infections such as ringworm. It is also a natural insect repellant when used in oil form. Cloves are also high in antioxidants, so it aids in protecting the body from illness and disease.
5. Dill
Dill has a calming effect and may be useful in the treatment of sleep problems such as insomnia. This herb is also known for its digestive aid; it promotes healthy digestion while also helping to treat digestion problems such as diarrhea or upset stomach.
Mint is known for its ability to relieve nausea, particularly when sipped in tea form. Mint also aids in digestion, providing relief from stomach cramps and discomfort associated with irritable bowel syndrome.
7. Oregano
Oregano is a natural source of omega-3, iron, potassium, and fiber. It is also an antibacterial that helps strengthen the body’s immune system. It can also help shorten the duration and alleviate symptoms of a cold.
8. Rosemary
Rosemary is an herb that is high in antioxidants and also has anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antiseptic properties, which makes it beneficial in treating and preventing a wide variety of health problems including skin infections and fungi. It also offers respiratory relief for those with chest colds or asthma.
9. Thyme
Thyme is rich in vitamins and minerals, which aid in promoting overall health. It is helpful, especially in oil or tea form, in treating congestion and coughs associated with croup, bronchitis, or other such illnesses. Thyme also promotes oral health when used as a rinse, and it helps improve bad breath.
10. Turmeric
Turmeric is a spice with antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antiseptic properties, which lends itself well to the treatment of minor cuts and scrapes. It may be beneficial in treating both skin conditions (such as psoriasis) and joint inflammation (such as arthritis).
1. Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar can help cure heartburn, constipation, and indigestion. It can also help maintain healthy cholesterol and blood sugar levels. When diluted with water and applied topically, it serves as a natural acne and wart treatment.
2. Baking Soda
Baking soda has a soothing effect on skin when applied topically, as it helps relieve itching and redness. When diluted with water, it also settles an upset stomach. Additionally, it can help cure bad breath, as it rids the mouth of bacteria.
3. Cilantro
Cilantro is an herb that promotes healthy digestion and provides relief from gas and bloating. It settles the stomach and provides relief from nausea. Consumption of cilantro helps prevent urinary tract infections and also lowers bad cholesterol.
4. Coconut Oil
Applied topically, coconut oil moisturizes the skin and helps provide relief and healing from skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis and minor injuries like bumps and bruises. Coconut oil has antibacterial and antifungal properties, so it is beneficial in strengthening the immune system and building a resistance against new illnesses.
5. Ginger
Ginger is known for its ability to settle an upset stomach, providing relief from nausea and indigestion. Ginger is an antibacterial, antifungal, and antihistamine, so it is helpful in treating colds and allergies. It is an anti-inflammatory, so it may treat symptoms of arthritis.
Honey has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, which makes it useful in the disinfection and healing of cuts, scrapes, and other minor skin injuries. Honey also provides relief from a cough and can help promote a restful night’s sleep.
7. Mustard Seed
In addition to being a great source of omega-3, mustard seed is a natural anti-inflammatory, which is helpful in treating conditions such as asthma and arthritis. It helps promote a healthy gastrointestinal system and reduces the risk of associated types of cancer.
8. Olive Oil
Olive oil promotes heart and digestive health by lowering bad cholesterol and the risk of heart disease. When taken orally, it soothes a sore throat or cough and also helps treat and prevent constipation.
9. Sea Salt
Sea salt is beneficial in lowering high cholesterol and contrary to popular belief, high blood pressure. It may also treat asthma by decreasing inflammation of the respiratory system. Sea salt can also boost the immune system, thereby increasing the body’s ability to fight off illnesses.
10. White Vinegar
Vinegar is thought to maintain and improve bone health, as it allows the body to absorb calcium more easily. It can also be used for cleansing the skin and treating existing conditions such as acne. Vinegar, taken orally in small doses, can also treat colds and coughs.
1. Almond
Almonds are a food rich in vitamins and minerals and provide a host of cardiovascular benefits, including lowered cholesterol and reduced risk of heart disease. Almonds are also thought to improve cognitive development in children. Almonds may reduce the risk of obesity and diabetes.
2. Cranberry
Cranberries are beneficial in promoting a healthy urinary tract. They are also high in antioxidants, which help protect the body against illness and disease. Cranberries support kidney health and may prevent and treat kidney stones.
3. Elderberry
When taken in extract form, elderberry may help to shorten the duration and decrease the severity of the flu. Elderberry can boost the body’s immune system and help the body respond quickly and strongly to viruses and infections. It is also known to relieve constipation.
4. Flaxseeds
Flaxseeds are rich in omega-3 and help prevent joint inflammation. They also help lower cholesterol and promote heart health. Flaxseeds are high in fiber and are therefore beneficial in treating and preventing constipation.
5. Garlic
Garlic is a natural antibiotic that helps treat bacterial and viral infections. It can also assist in maintaining healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Consumption of garlic may also be linked to a lower risk of cancer.
Green tea is rich in antioxidants, which protect the body from illness and promote healthy cell growth. Drinking green tea is thought to boost immunity and lower the risk of many serious health conditions such as heart disease, arthritis, and certain cancers (like lung and breast cancer).
7. Lemon
Lemon is a fruit known to boost immunity with its antibacterial and antiviral properties. Lemons are rich in vitamin C and can help fight the common cold. Though its acidic nature may cause an initial burning sensation, lemon can help expedite the healing of a scratchy or sore throat.
8. Onion
The consumption of onions may help lower bad cholesterol. Onions also have antibacterial and antifungal properties and help break down mucus, making it beneficial for healing a sinus infection, cold, or other virus. Onion tea can promote a healthy respiratory system by relieving a cough and decreasing inflammation of the throat.
9. Salmon
Salmon is naturally high in omega-3 fatty acids, supporting neurological and cardiovascular health. Eating fish also promotes joint and tissue health through anti-inflammatory actions.
10. Yogurt
Yogurt supports digestive health and is known to help the body recover from conditions that affect digestion (such as diarrhea). It can also help lower bad cholesterol. Yogurt contains live cultures (probiotics) that promote the growth of healthy bacteria, which is particularly important when taking antibiotics that may kill both good and bad bacteria. Just be sure to pick from among the healthier yogurt brands without all the added sugars that can counteract the digestive benefits.
1. Chamomile
Chamomile oil has sedative properties that promote calmness and relaxation. When used in a bath or during massage, it can treat stress, headaches, and menstrual cramps. Chamomile oil, when diluted, also promotes a healthy scalp and may be useful in the treatment of lice.
2. Cinnamon
Cinnamon oil, when diluted, helps to promote circulation. It is also beneficial in topically treating infections, as it is an antibacterial and antiseptic agent. Cinnamon oil may also positively affect digestion and can treat diarrhea or an upset stomach.
3. Clove
Clove oil has disinfectant properties that make it particularly useful in treating minor cuts, scrapes, and burns. It is also proven to help relieve pain associated with a toothache. Diluted and applied topically, clove oil can be beneficial in the treatment of acne.
4. Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus oil is helpful in treating aches associated with a cold, flu, or minor muscle injuries. When eucalyptus oil is inhaled, it is thought to stimulate the senses in addition to helping to clear the nasal passages.
5. Fennel
Fennel oil is an expectorant that is also antibacterial, so it has the ability to treat and expedite the healing of a cough or cold. It provides relief from stomach problems such as nausea, bloating, or constipation. Fennel oil may also treat bacterial eye infections like conjunctivitis.
Lavender oil is a useful form of aromatherapy, particularly in comforting children who have colic or who may be teething, as it promotes relaxation and sleep. Diluted lavender oil is also used to promote respiratory health in conditions that cause breathing problems, such as bronchitis, asthma, or sinusitis. Additionally, a massage with lavender oil will help soothe aching tissues and muscles.
7. Lemon
Lemon oil is thought to have a calming effect on the body; it stimulates the senses while also helping to relieve anxiety. Lemon oil is a natural insect repellant. When mixed with water, it can also be a beneficial skin treatment for eczema and acne.
8. Peppermint
Peppermint oil helps provide relief from headaches when used as a form of aromatherapy. Peppermint oil aromatherapy also helps clear nasal passages and promotes a healthy respiratory system. When diluted with water and sipped, it soothes an upset stomach associated with indigestion or gas.
9. Tea Tree
Tea tree oil is useful when applied topically to treat skin conditions such as acne or sunburn. It is also an antifungal that can be used to treat warts, ringworm, or athlete’s foot. Tea tree oil can aid in recovery from congestion or other symptoms associated with viruses such as a cold or flu.
10. Ylang Ylang
Ylang ylang is an essential oil that may be beneficial in treating stress and anxiety, as it promotes relaxation and a sense of peace. When used as a form of aromatherapy, it may also help treat depression and restlessness.
1. Calcium
Calcium is important in maintaining healthy bones and teeth, and it is especially important for young children with growing bodies. Proper calcium intake during youth can help prevent arthritis and osteoporosis in older age.
2. Coenzyme Q10
Coenzyme Q10 may be beneficial in the treatment of asthma, as it may have anti-inflammatory properties that promote bronchial health. It may also help treat symptoms of fatigue. Maintaining healthy levels of coenzyme Q10 may prove useful in preventing migraine headaches and promoting cardiovascular health.
3. Folate
Folate is beneficial in promoting healthy brain development. It is particularly important for fetal health to promote proper growth. Folate is also helpful in the treatment or prevention of both anemia and depression. Folic acid is a synthetic form of folate typically used in supplements and fortified foods.
4. Iron
Iron is crucial in assisting the transportation of oxygen throughout the body to the vital organs. Proper iron levels ward off anemia and fatigue while also promoting brain health. A healthy iron intake also helps treat and prevent insomnia and other sleep disorders.
5. Magnesium
Magnesium promotes neurological health; it can help treat and prevent headaches and migraines. It may also be useful in treating anxiety, stress, and depression. Magnesium provides support to the heart and may help lower the risk of high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. Magnesium is also effective in treating constipation.
Omega-3 fatty acids provide a host of benefits: anti-inflammation, lowered blood pressure, heart health, and improved heart and neurological functioning. Some studies suggest a link between omega-3s and relief of symptoms associated with bipolar disorder. Omega-3s are also thought to promote eye health and a lower risk of macular degeneration.
7. Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 is beneficial in preventing fatigue, anemia, and low energy. It also supports neurological health by decreasing symptoms associated with depression and anxiety. Vitamin B12 is also thought to lower the risk of stroke and certain cancers (such as lung or colon cancer).
8. Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a crucial antibacterial, antifungal, and antiviral vitamin that supports the immune system and reduces the severity and duration of an illness or infection. It helps to lower cholesterol and decreases the risk of cardiovascular and autoimmune diseases. Vitamin C also promotes healthy blood clotting.
9. Vitamin D
Vitamin D is important in maintaining proper bone health, as it is necessary in order for calcium to be properly absorbed. Vitamin D also supports a healthy immune system. It can aid in the treatment of serious conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and kidney disease. Maintaining healthy vitamin D levels may prevent certain cancers and mental health disorders.
10. Zinc
Zinc is essential in boosting immunity and helps to reduce the severity and shorten the duration of both colds and cold sores. It is also beneficial in the treatment and healing of skin conditions such as psoriasis, acne, and eczema.
1. Aloe
The gel from an aloe vera plant provides topical relief for skin problems such as minor burns or sunburns. It can also help to expedite healing cuts, blisters, and open sores. Aloe moisturizes the skin while also removing the sting associated with dermatological issues or injuries. Taken internally, aloe soothes the digestive tract.
2. Astragalus
Astragalus is a plant that helps boost the body’s immune system, thereby providing an increased resistance to colds and viruses. It is also known to offer relief from heartburn and indigestion, as it regulates stomach acid.
3. Butterbur
The butterbur plant has natural anti-inflammatory properties that aid in the recovery of colds, sinus infections, and bronchial infections. It is also an expectorant that relieves a cough and makes breathing easier. Butterbur is also thought to be a natural treatment for recurring headaches including migraines.
4. Cacao
Cacao, the main ingredient in chocolate, comes from the Theobroma cacao tree and functions as a natural antioxidant. Antioxidants protect the body from illness and strengthen the immune system. Cacao is also thought to provide cardiovascular benefits and promotes healthy cholesterol levels.
5. Calendula
Calendula, from the marigold flower, is often used as an oil or ointment applied topically to relieve skin rashes and inflammation. It may also be used in tea form to reduce a fever and to soothe stomach ulcers.
Chamomile is a natural sedative that is beneficial when used to promote a sense of calm and relaxation, particularly at bedtime. It has also been shown to help treat the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome by settling the stomach and promoting healthy bowel movements.
7. Echinacea
Echinacea is an herb that supports a healthy immune system. During an illness, it fights viruses and infections. When used topically, it also helps expedite the healing of minor injuries such as cuts, scrapes, and burns.
8. Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus leaves are helpful in expediting recovery from respiratory infections, as they provide relief from fever, cough, and congestion. Sipped as a tea, it can have a soothing effect on a sore throat.
9. Milk Thistle
Milk thistle is a plant that is primarily known to promote a healthy liver and detoxification, but it may also help to lower cholesterol. It may provide relief from pain associated with kidney stones as well.
10. Pelargonium
Pelargonium comes from the geranium plant and, when used in oil form, can treat dermatological conditions such as acne and eczema. It also has antibacterial and antifungal properties and has been shown to be quite effective in treating sinus and bronchial infections.
1. Antimonium Tartaricum
Antimonium tartaricum is a helpful homeopathic medicine that loosens thick mucus in children with a cough or chest cold. In doing so, coughs become more productive and the loosened mucus allows for easier breathing and swallowing.
2. Apis
Apis mellifica provides soothing relief following an insect sting or bite. It relieves the stinging sensation, redness, and swelling that may occur following such bites and stings. It is also useful for itchy skin conditions.
3. Arnica
Arnica montana provides first-aid relief for those experiencing pain associated with bumps and bruises. It also treats pulled or strained muscles and the aches and soreness that follow.
4. Belladonna
Belladonna is a plant with medicinal properties, though some parts of the plant are toxic. Belladonna relieves sinus pain that may occur with a sinus infection, cold, or allergies and is a common remedy for fevers.
5. Calcarea Phosphorica
Calcarea phosphorica in gel or tablet form helps alleviate pain and discomfort when a child is teething. It may also provide pain relief associated with normal childhood growing pains.
6. Carbo Vegetabilis
Carbo vegetabilis is a helpful ingredient in the treatment of babies experiencing colic. By reducing bloating, this homeopathic ingredient helps to relieve discomfort.
Euphrasia is a plant used to help treat eye infections or other eye conditions. It can be used to help treat redness, irritation, and swelling caused by allergies or conjunctivitis.
8. Pulsatilla
Pulsatilla is a type of flower that behaves as an expectorant and helps encourage recovery from a cold or sinus infection. It helps provide relief from a stuffy nose, earache, or sinus pressure.
9. Sulfur
Sulfur is a mineral that is helpful in treating skin conditions such as eczema or acne. It is used to help soothe red, itchy skin associated with these or other skin problems.
10. Thuja
Thuja is a type of tree that is useful in treating conditions that result from fungal infections. It is noted for its use in treating ringworm and warts when used topically. It may also be used to help infants and children cope with stressful medical procedures.
1. Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a key component of Traditional Chinese Medicine in which thin needles are inserted into specific parts of the body known as acupuncture points. Acupuncture is used to treat pain and to restore a natural balance in the body.
2. Biofeedback
Biofeedback is a noninvasive treatment option that is used to promote awareness of the state of one’s physical or mental health. During biofeedback treatment, electrical sensors are applied to the body and various physiological parameters (e.g., heart rate, muscle tension, brain waves) are monitored. The feedback received from such monitoring helps provide the tools with which behavior and feelings may be modified, such as tics or anxieties.
3. Dance
Dance is a form of therapy that focuses on the relationship between the mind and body, combining physical movement and emotion. It can be used to help treat stress, anxiety, and sensory disorders.
4. Exercise
Regular exercise is extremely beneficial in children, as it allows them to expend their naturally high energy. It also serves as a physical outlet for anger, stress, and other emotions that may otherwise lead to behavioral problems. Outdoor free play may be particularly therapeutic.
5. Guided Imagery
Guided imagery is a technique that uses specific thought processes to manipulate a physical response. It can be helpful in trying to encourage a child to relax or fall asleep. This can be done by visualizing sensory details of a calm and peaceful scene, which often evokes a physical response from the body.
Hypnosis is a form of therapy that combines concentration and relaxation in an effort to modify emotions or behavior. Hypnosis involves a trance-like state of consciousness, which can be useful in treating anxiety or depression. It may also help eliminate undesired behavior like bed-wetting.
7. Massage
Massage is a form of therapy that enables the body to relax while also working on the body’s tissues. Massage is particularly helpful in treating soreness and discomfort associated with muscle or tissue injuries. It also promotes circulation and the relief of stress and tension.
8. Meditation
Meditation is a practice that involves intense focus in an effort to arrive at a place of self-awareness. It often homes in on breathing or concentrating on a specific focal point in order to achieve a goal, such as relief from pain or stress reduction. It may also help treat anxiety or depression.
9. Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR)
MBSR is a form of therapy that promotes an overall sense of awareness. It does not involve a single focal point or emotion but rather a mindfulness that covers all of the senses. It may be used to treat depression, stress, or anxiety as well as some neurological conditions that cause physical pain.
10. Yoga
Yoga uses stretching, specific physical positions, and breathing techniques to encourage relaxation, balance, and physical strength. Yoga is beneficial in the management of conditions such as ADHD/ADD, autism spectrum disorder, anxiety disorders, and mood disorders.