The Definitive Guide to Living in the Capital , Cairo , Egypt

Whether it’s a sore throat, itchy skin, heartburn or even constipation, pesky daily ailments can really get irritating and most people’s first reaction is to reach for our medicine cabinets. But that’s not always the best solution.

Our bodies can throw us for a loop at any time and the medicine that once worked for us can become ineffective over time or even turn to be the cause of the problem – which is why we recommend going to the kitchen before going to the medicine cabinet.

Particular foods are rich in organic healing properties and are also largely inexpensive. So, without further ado, we present you with nine home remedies that are quick and easy to apply.

Turmeric as… Antiseptic

Known to be packed with curcumin, a chemical that has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities, Turmeric is known in some cultures as a ‘holy powder’ for its ability to stop bacteria from doubling, thus prevents infections and treating superficial wounds.

Apples as…Antacids

If you are the type of person who prefers their food spicy or indulges in a hefty meal right before heading to bed, then chances are you will suffer from heartburn. Apples are an excellent remedy to diminish the burning sensation, as they are loaded with pectin, which has the power to absorb stomach acid and restore your pH balance.

Sugar as…Hiccup-Stopper

Since our bodies can’t handle two reflex actions at once – hiccups being one reflex action due to eating too fast – keeping a spoonful of sugar under your tongue for a while will stimulate the saliva – another reflex action – which will make our bodies forget all about the hiccups.

Prune Juice as…Laxative

Feeling constipated is a common issue that we all suffer from due to unhealthy eating habits, but  prune juice can help solve this irritating problem as it contains insoluble fibers that don’t dissolve, therefore assisting in pushing waste through the digestive system.

Oatmeal as…Eczema Treatment

Working as a treatment for eczema as well as chicken pox, insect bites and skin itchiness, oatmeal acts as an excellent natural remedy for skin abnormalities instead of medicines. Just grind a handful of oatmeal and soak it into enough lukewarm water to make a paste that is directly applied to the skin afterwards.

Garlic Juice as…Throat Lozenge

As strange as it may sound, garlic juice has the power to sooth the throat’s inflamed tissue through its antimicrobial qualities. All you need to do is mix five or six pressed garlic cloves into a glass of lukewarm water and drink the juice for a couple of days to feel its effect.

Cherries as…Sleeping Aids

Recommended to be eaten an hour before bedtime, cherries are a natural source of melatonin which is produced by our bodies to regulate sleep and help in controlling the body’s internal clock. A handful of cherries will do the trick for those who suffer from sleeping disorders.

Strawberries as…Toothpaste

Toothpaste doesn’t actually whiten or protect our teeth. Strawberries, however, are a natural and more efficient substitute. Crush the strawberries to form a paste then rub on your teeth gently; leave it for a couple of minutes then wash your mouth.

Ginger as… Nausea relief

Whether you decided to drink it or chew it, ginger treats the feeling of nausea and prevents vomiting. Thanks to the gingerol chemical found in ginger roots, ginger is an effective home remedy to treat upset stomach.