5 Home Remedies for When You are Feeling Down!
Honey-Lemon Ginger Tea
This is our go-to get-well tea remedy that is cost-effective, easy to do at home and is full of
anti-inflammatory support for the body.
Directions: Boil 1 cup of water, add 1 teaspoon of honey, squeeze the juice of half fresh
lemon and add two teaspoons of grated ginger. Let the tea steep for 5-10 minutes before
consuming. Drink the tea on a as needed basis.
Warming Socks
Warming socks are a great way to reduce fevers and relieve head congestion. This
treatment is not recommended for those with circulatory issues or compromised immunity.
Directions: Run a thin pair of cotton socks under cold tap water. Wring the socks out and
place them on both feet. Next, place a pair of dry thicker socks over both feet (wool socks
work best) ensuring to completely cover the wet socks. Go to bed and try to keep your feet
covered throughout the night with a blanket. In the morning remove both the dry and wet
socks. This treatment can be repeated at night, for 3-5 days.
Onions
Experiencing an acute earache? Warmed onions applied topically to the ear, are an excellent
way to relieve ear pain and ear infections.
Directions: Peel and slice an onion in half and heat in the microwave or in an oven
(recommended temperature: 325oC) until the onion becomes warm but not scorching hot.
Wrap the warm onion in a dish towel and place it on the affected ear for 15-20 minutes,
repeat twice a day for 2-3days.
Steam Inhalation
Steam inhalations are a great way to relive runny noses and nasal congestion.
Directions: Boil water in a kettle or over the stove, carefully fill a glass bowl three-quarters
of the way with hot water. Hold your head about 5 inches away from the bowel and place a
towel over your head, breathe deeply through your nose for 5 minutes. Consider adding a
few drops of eucalyptus oil or a spoonful of Vicks vapor rub to the hot water, to promote
healing within the respiratory tract and to relieve congestion. This process can be repeated
throughout the day as needed.
Salt Water Gargle
At the first signs of a sore throat, we recommend a saltwater gargle.
Directions: Fill a 250 mL glass with warm water, mix 1 teaspoon of salt into the glass, take a
small gulp of water, swish around your mouth and gargle 3-4 times, spit out the water,
repeat until the glass is empty. The saltwater gargle can be repeated upward to3 times a
day to relieve sore scratchy throats.
If your symptoms do not improve or you find that your cold or flu is getting worse, make
sure to consult one of the naturopathic doctors at Naturopathic Living, we offer acute 15
minute consults throughout the week (including Saturdays)!