32 Top Tips To Improve Memory

I first became really interested in the mysteries of memory many years ago, when I learned of the incredible feats of “memory masters” – who appeared to have superhuman memorization abilities.

I was surprised to learn that in many cases, it is not so much that they have a prodigious capacity for sheer “data storage”, but that they have learned to take advantage of the brain’s innate structure to full advantage.

For example, did you know that visual memory has a much greater portion of the brain “allocated” to it than other memory types – and that you can employ this natural power that you already have to improve your memory greatly?

The classic example given is that of a shopping list. Try this: Instead of attempting to memorize a basic shopping list, imagine walking into a room, and seeing clearly the items laid out on a table in front of you.

Then when you get to the store, recall the memory of walking into the room, and look on the table.

Give it a go! You’ll find it much easier than attempting to memorize a string of words with no specific visual connotation. If you doubt this, consider how much easier it is to remember a face than a name! Our memories are visually-oriented.

So the memory masters, utilizing these innate qualities of the brain to best effect, would do things like for example memorizing a simple set of objects that are “permanently pegged” to each of the numbers, starting with ten but gradually extending this system so that they had for example perfectly memorized 100 objects, one for each of the numbers 0 to 99. Then by creating visual sequences of these easier-to-memorize objects, they could memorize incredibly long numbers with ease, astounding people with their “total recall” ability.

This technique can also be applied to remembering names, strings of letters or even complex codes – always using the same “key code” of a simple set of objects that correspond to the basic word and number building blocks. Once you have the basic system down, it can be used to remember anything you wish to remember. You too have this astonishing natural ability – it’s just that no-one ever taught you how to use it!

Fascinating stuff, don’t you think? It’s a kind of “inner cryptography” for your own mind. 

Ok, here is our “master list” of resources for you which can help improve memory:

1. Here’s a great article which contains a list and tutorial for 20 tips to improve memory: http://ecosalon.com/what-are-the-20-tips-to-improve-memory-say-again

2. We have a page called 10 Herbs For Memory which lists ten of the herbs thought to be most valuable. Of these our ‘top picks’ are Rosemary and Gingko Biloba.

3. We discovered a fascinating substance – Galantamine – a substance extracted from the Snowdrop and a few other flowers. Interestingly, it has been theorized that the Snowdrop may have been the flower given by Odysseus to his men to restore their memory in Homer’s epic from Ancient Greece. Galantamine has been studied and found to be an acetylcholinesterase inhibitor – and it turns out that for this reason it has significant potential as an anti-Alzheimer’s agent! According to life extension scientist Will Block, it may even have an edge over other anti-Alzheimer’s agents. ^[1] It also turns out that galantamine has gained a reputation for its ability to assist with the practice of lucid dreaming – however please note that there have been some side effects noted and it may not be safe for all: Here is a very detailed article on galantamine.

4. I just discovered a fascinating supplement available on Amazon.com called “Neuro Optimizer” and I’m really keen to check it out. I haven’t tried this yet, but it is getting some really good reviews from people saying that it is helping them with mental clarity. It contains neuro-nutrients and protectants thought to assist with several aspects of brain function. This product seems amazing and I’m really keen to try it out soon. If you are curious to investigate, here is the link where you can read the reviews and purchase. (Note – this is my Amazon affiliate link.)

5. A final useful tip is to think of “the brain as a muscle”. In other words, it needs a workout in order to remain strong. “Use it or lose it” applies to neural pathways and the ones that are not used, fade away whereas the ones you use habitually are reinforced. As we get older it’s important to keep challenging ourselves to think and do “mental exercises” which utilize recall.

What do you do to keep your memory sharp? Got any other tips? Please let us know on our Facebook page or in the comments. 

Reference:

[1] Block, W. Aug 2004. If Only Galantamine Could Talk … http://www.life-enhancement.com/magazine/article/973-if-only-galantamine-could-talk

7 HUGE Reasons To Avoid Antibiotic Overuse

The “age of antibiotics” began with the discovery of penicillin by Fleming in 1929, which led to the mass production and widespread availability of the “do-it-all” drug that is often regarded as a cure-all for any infection… fed to animals as part of their diet and with doctors often prescribing them “just in case”. ^[1]

As a result, antibiotics are now regarded as “the world’s most overprescribed medicine” but it’s important to note that they are not without side effects and potentially serious dangers – as you will see from the report below.

7 Huge Reasons To Avoid Antibiotic Overuse:

1. “Collateral Damage” To Good Bacteria

Antibiotics are used with the intention of targeting bad bacterial infections but in reality, broad-spectrum antibiotics don’t discriminate between bad and good bacteria. Good bacteria, especially in the intestinal tract, are essential in maintaining a healthy balance in the body and antibiotics can play havoc with the body’s natural balance of bacteria, potentially allowing bad bacteria to recolonize and “run the show” – leading to stomach upsets and potentially more serious conditions.

Scientific studies have found evidence that when you take antiobiotics, there are risks of other health problems. ^[2][3][4] Several studies have also linked the presence of select strains of bacteria to healthy body growth and development, mental health (astonishingly) and overall well-being.

It’s possible that intestinal trouble could go on for years after antibiotic use and many people complain of this – however there may be a solution: A practice worth considering would be the use of probiotics, especially after a course of antibiotics. Consult your doctor about probiotics, they are regarded as suitable for many people but there are some cases in which they are contraindicated; notably if there is some damage to the intestines i.e. ulcer, which could potentially permit the bacteria into parts of the body where they should not be.

2. Increased Risk Of Autoimmune Intestinal Disease

Disease can only take hold of the body if its immune system isn’t functioning properly. Antibiotics can upset the normal equilibrium of the body, affecting the body’s immune system. A damaged immune system can lead to an autoimmune disorder or the development of a chronic disease or infection.

Autoimmune diseases are conditions where the body’s immune system starts targeting itself other major organ systems of the body. Scientific understanding as to why this happens is incomplete, but alterations in the body’s equilibrium may have a big role to play in the disease process. A study published in 2006 discovered that changes made to the intestinal tissue (specifically increased permeability which can be caused by an imbalance of bacterial presence in the intestines) is a common factor among several autoimmune conditions like Chron’s and Celiac disease. ^[5]

3. Higher Incidence Of Asthma And Allergies

Brochial asthma is a relatively common condition that is life-threatening if managed poorly. An asthma attack can even be fatal if a person comes into contact with a severe trigger. However, in a study published in 2009, antibiotic use, especially in infancy, has been associated with a higher incidence of asthma, rhinoconjunctivitis, and eczema in school age children. The next time you give your child antibiotics, think clearly of what this means for their future health. ^[6]

4. Liver Damage

When people are prescribed very strong antibiotics, it is part of the diagnostic phase to include liver function tests to set a baseline. This is because antibiotics are dangerous to the liver. Antibiotics have been found to damage liver tissue and can cause liver function test values (AST and ALT) to rise. Azithromycin, an antibiotic widely available in most pharmacies, has been directly linked to liver injury – with abnormal liver function tests revealed as early as two-weeks after the start of antibiotic treatment. ^[7]

5. Increased Cancer Risk

A nationwide study in Finland compared data of long term antibiotic users with cancer patients, looking for a correlation. The study’s results suggest that chronic use of prescribed antibiotics increased the risk (by as much as 1.5 times) for prostate, breast, lung, colon, ovary, endocrine, skin, thyroid, and kidney cancers in both men and women. ^[8]

6. Weight Gain

You might think that the links between antibiotic use and weight gain are a stretch but you would be mistaken. We often think that the only cause of weight gain is poor diet and exercise but the medications you take may also have a hand in it. Studies published in 2014 and 2015 positively associated antibiotic use to abnormal weight gain in infants and children. ^[9][10]

7. Development Of Superbugs

Chronic use of antibiotics (especially if you don’t follow the prescription of a physician) can actually build up bacterial resistance to certain drugs. When a bacterium is continually exposed to a specific drug, it becomes resistant to it, which is why we have a rise in MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) and MDR TB (Multi-drug resistance Tuberculosis) cases. Read our full report on the predicted rise in fatalities from untreatable infections (immune to all manufactured antibiotics).

Alternatives:

While we cannot for legal reasons make any sort of medicinal recommendation, naturopaths / herbalists have a wide array of herbs to choose from that have natural antibiotic qualities that may provide support for various conditions. For example, garlic has been found in lab tests to be 100x as effective as antibiotics in cases of bacterial food poisoning.

Here’s a great book exploring this topic in full: Herbal Antibiotics: Natural Alternatives for Treating Drug-resistant Bacteria (Amazon link)

NOTE: This article is not medical advice nor a substitute for professional medical consultation. For legal reasons we do not advise self-diagnosis or self-medication.

References:

[1] Aminov, R. (2010). A Brief History of the Antibiotic Era: Lessons Learned and Challenges for the Future.http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3109405/

[2] Zhou, L. & Foster, J. (2015). Psychobiotics and the gut-brain axis: in the pursuit of happiness.http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4370913/

[3] Schmidt, K., et. al. (2014). Prebiotic intake reduces the waking cortisol response and alters emotional bias in healthy volunteers. http://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00213-014-3810-0/fulltext.html

[4] Clarke, G., et. al. (2014). Priming for health: gut microbiota acquired in early life regulates physiology, brain and behaviour.http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24798884

[5] Arrieta, M., Bistritz, L. & Meddings, J. (2006). Alterations in intestinal permeability.http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1856434/

[6] Foliaki, S., et. al. (2009). Antibiotic use in infancy and symptoms of asthma, rhinoconjunctivitis, and eczema in children 6 and 7 years old: International Study of Asthma and Allergies in Childhood Phase III.http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0091674909012536

[7] Martinez, M., et. al. (2015). Clinical and histologic features of azithromycin-induced liver injury.http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25111234

[8] Kilkkinen, A., et. al. (2008). Antibiotic use predicts an increased risk of cancer.http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ijc.23622/full

[9] Saari, A., et. al. (2015). Antibiotic exposure in infancy and risk of being overweight in the first 24 months of life.http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25825533

[10] Angelakis, E., et. al. (2014). Abnormal weight gain and gut microbiota modifications are side effects of long-term doxycycline and hydroxychloroquine treatment. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24687497

http://www.herbs-info.com/blog/7-huge-reasons-to-avoid-antibiotic-overuse/?c=d

Health benefits of pomegranate

Pomegranate is one of the healthiest fruits on earth. Pomegranate has many incredible health benefits for your body. It is called as a divine fruit because it is the most mentioned fruit in theological books. Pomegranate has anti-oxidant, anti-viral and anti-tumor properties and is said to be a good source of vitamins, especially vitamin A, vitamin C, and vitamin E, as well as folic acid. This amazing fruit consists three times as many antioxidants as both wine or green tea. Consuming pomegranate also lowers the risk of all sorts of diseases. Following are the benefits of pomegranate:

1. Protects us from free radicals

Pomegranate is rich in anti-oxidants and thus protects our body from free radicals, which are responsible for premature ageing. Free radicals are formed by exposure to sun and due to harmful toxins in the environment.

2. It thins your blood

Antioxidants present in pomegranate act as a ‘thinner for your blood’. The seeds of pomegranate prevent your blood platelets from forming clots and coagulating.

There are two types of blood clots, first is the good one which speeds the recovery during a cut or an injury and second is when there is any internal clot, like in heart, arteries or anywhere else inside the body. These type of clots are not good and can be fatal.

3. Prevention of atherosclerosis

With increasing age and the type of lifestyle we live, the walls of our arteries become harder due to cholesterol, resulting in blockages sometimes. The anti-oxidant property of pomegranate prevents bad cholesterol from oxidizing. So, eating pomegranates removes the excess fat and prevents the hardening of artery walls.

4. It acts like an oxygen mask

Pomegranate helps to pump the level of oxygen in our blood. Due to anti-oxidants present in pomegranate, it fights free radicals, reduces cholesterol and prevents blood clot. All this eventually helps blood to flow freely and thus improve the level of oxygen in your body.

5. It prevents arthritis

Pomegranate can reduce the damage of the cartilage by fighting the enzyme that does so. Pomegranate also has the ability to reduce inflammation.

6. Fights erectile dysfunction

Though it is not a wonder drug but yes pomegranate juice can slightly improve erectile dysfunction. And a lot of theories prove this as true.

7. Fights heart disease and prostate cancer

Two studies claim that pomegranate juice has the ability to fight prostate cancer. An experiment showed that pomegranate juice slowed the growth and even killed cultured cancer cells. And as we have already mentioned in the second point, pomegranate juice thins the blood and thus improves its condition which in turn prevents cardiovascular diseases.

8. Pomegranate is loaded with beneficial nutrients

A cup of pomegranate seed contains 24 grams of sugar and 144 calories. A cup of pomegranate seeds contain following nutrients:

Fiber: 7 grams

Protein: 3 grams

Folate: 16 per cent of the RDA

Potassium: 12 per cent of the RDA

Vitamin C: 30 per cent of the RDA

Vitamin K: 36 per cent of the RDA

9. It improves memory

A study was conducted where people who had a problem with their memory were given 237ml of pomegranate juice every day. After a certain period of time, a lot of improvement was seen in their verbal and visual memory. In fact, another experiment done on mice shows that pomegranate consumption can also prevent Alzheimer’s. But the experiment is yet to be done on humans.

10. It lowers blood pressure

Punicic acid is one of the main constituents of pomegranate that help lower cholesterol, triglycerides and reduce blood pressure.

11. Helps in digestion

We all know fibre is good for digestion. But due to our lifestyle where we are inclined towards eating junk food, we miss the goodness of fibre in our vegetables and fruits. Adding pomegranate to your everyday diet can be one the best ways to include fibre in your daily routine. One pomegranate contains 45 per cent of your daily recommended intake of fibre.

12. Boosts immunity

Being rich in anti-inflammatory compounds, pomegranates are extremely healthy for those suffering from immune-related disorders like rheumatoid arthritis and osteroarthrits. They are also rich in vitamin C, which boosts antibody production and helps in the development of immunity. Pomegranates can thus help you maintain a healthy immune system and keep common illnesses and infections at bay.

13. Lowers stress levels

Apart from reducing body’s internal oxidative stress, pomegranates also help lower psychological stress that you go through in your personal and professional life. According to a study conducted by Queen Margaret University, people who drank pomegranate juice had lower levels of cortisol, a stress hormone that is increased under stressful situations.

14. Prevent plaque formation

You use mouth wash to improve your oral health, but much to your surprise pomegranate juice can be a better option than alcohol containing mouth washes. Certain compounds in pomegranate exhibit strong antiplaque effects.

A study showed that hydroalcoholic extract of pomegranate effectively lowered dental plaque formation due to microorganisms build up by almost 84 per cent.

Caution: Pomegranate juice is good for cardiovascular health but in rare cases, it may react with a patient’s medication.

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/diet/pomegranate-benefits/articleshow/60114168.cms

HEALTH BENEFITS OF POMEGRANATE

10 Things That Happen To Your Body If You Walk Every Day.

22 Natural Sore Throat Remedies to Help Soothe the Pain

A sore throat can be a royal pain in the uh…throat. Like blinking, we never notice how much we swallow until we start paying attention to it, and when it hurts like nobody’s business, it’s kind of difficult not to pay attention. But before you go getting down about how long you’re going to have to suffer with it, consider taking some action-relief may be close than you think. Below are 22 simple at home sore throat remedies that will help you get started on naturally soothing the ache.

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Note: Do not give honey on its own or otherwise to children under the age of 1 year.

1. Gargle With Warm Salt Water

When your Grandmother told you to gargle with salt water, she knew what she was talking about. Gargling with salt water isn’t an old wives tale-it’s about one of the closest to a cures for a sore throat you can get.

When our throats hurt, regardless of what causes it, it’s because the cells in the mucous membranes have become swollen and inflamed. By gargling with salt water you decrease the swelling, as salts primary function is to draw out water, which in turn shrinks the swollen cell and eases the pain. It also helps wash away the excess mucous and allows your stuffy nose (if you have one) to drain properly.

You will need…
-1 cup of warm water (8 oz.)
-½ teaspoon of table salt

Directions
Heat water until it’s warm, but not hot. Thoroughly mix in salt. Gargle. Repeat 3 throughout the day as needed.

Any more than that and you risk drying out healthy soft tissue and making things worse.

2. Make And Enjoy A Hot Toddy (or have someone make it for you.)

Typically a Hot Toddy helps a sore throat -particularly one accompanied by a cold- for 2 reasons. The honey and lemon soothes your throat, while the alcohol helps you sleep. I personally leave the alcohol out of mine as my mother did when she made her version for me growing up. Whether or not you use it is up to you, but keep in mind that steering clear of alcohol when you’re under the weather is usually best.

P.S. Make sure to take a look at the Everyday Roots Book. 350+ pages of the best home remedies, natural beauty recipes, homemade cleaners and diy household products. View Remedies

You will need…
-2 oz. bourbon or whiskey (optional, not recommended)
-1 tablespoon of honey, or more to taste
-4 ounces hot water
-1 teaspoon lemon juice
-1 slice fresh lemon (optional)

Directions
If you’re using it, pour the alcohol into a large mug. Add the honey, and leave the spoon in the mug. Pour the hot water into the mug, making sure it gets the last bit of honey off the spoon. Add the lemon juice and stir well. Place the mug in the microwave and heat until its nice and hot, but not boiling (about 1 minute.) Add the lemon slice, and enjoy.

3. Mix up an ACV drink

Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) is probably right up there with garlic (its unfortunate the things that make us better can’t taste delicious) but some people swear by it. Its high levels of acidity can kill bacteria quite efficiently, and when mixed with honey it can soothe the soreness in your throat as well.

You will need…
-1 tablespoon of Apple Cider Vinegar
-1 tablespoon of honey
-1 cup of very warm water

Directions
Mix the ACV and honey into very warm water. Drink it while it’s still warm!

OR

If you don’t want to swallow it (and it does have a strong taste) try 2 tablespoons of ACV and mix with ½ cup warm water. Gargle once a day.

4. Suck on Garlic

Yup, it sounds repulsive, and you probably don’t want to go on a dinner date right afterwards, but garlic is a natural remedy that can kick a sore throat right in it’s painfully swollen tush. The reason lies in the garlic’s allicin, a compound that can kill the bacteria that causes strep and fight the germs causing pain and irritation.

You will need…
-1 fresh clove of garlic, sliced in half

Directions
Place 1 piece of garlic in each cheek, and suck on it like a cough drop. Occasionally crush your teeth against it to release the allicin- there’s no need to actually bite it. Try this once daily.

5. Have A Marshmallow

Don’t get too excited-I am referring to the herb called Marshmallow, or Marshmallow Root. It has been used with a fair amount of success for several centuries in North America and Europe as it contains mucilage, which helps coat and soothe mucus membranes in the throat.

Note that if you have diabetes, you should consult your doctor before using Marshmallow Root, as it may lower your blood sugar.

You will need…
-1 tablespoon of the dried root
-1 cup of boiling water

Directions
Put one tablespoon of dried root in a mug and pour boiling water over it. Cover and steep for 30-60 minutes before straining and drinking.

6. Steam It Out

Steam can ease a sore throat-particularly one that hurts due to dryness-shorten its duration, and make it easier to breathe if you’re congested. You don’t have to head to your gym’s sauna/steam room to get the treatment either-there are ways to use steam as a remedy without leaving the comfort of your home.

You will need…
-1 medium to large bowl
-Enough hot water to fill your bowl about halfway
-1 bath towel or a towel of similar size
-Eucalyptus oil (optional)

Directions
Boil a pot of water and pour it into your bowl. Lean over the bowl so that you can fully inhale the rising steam-you don’t have to stick your face right up to it. Drape the towel over your head to create a tent for the steam. Add a few drops of eucalyptus oil if you’d like to make it more soothing. If you’re worried about frightening someone who walks in on a mysterious towel-draped creature snuffling and sniffling over a bowl of steaming water, taking a hot shower and letting the bathroom steam up can provide some relief as well.

7. Kick It With Cayenne

Drinking warm water with cayenne can actually make you feel better. This is another one of those really funky sounding home remedies, but again, a lot of people swear by it. Dumping something involving hot peppers in any way, shape, or form down your already searing throat seems counterintuitive to helping it, but there’s a method to the madness. Cayenne (and other hot peppers) have a chemical compound called capsaicin that temporarily relieves pain, much like Advil or aspirin does. It accomplishes this by hindering something called substance P, which is what transmits pain signals to your brain. Thus, the discomfort from your sore throat is diluted when coming in contact with the Cayenne-and quickly to boot.

You will need…
-1/2 teaspoon of Cayenne Pepper
-1 cup of boiling water
-1 teaspoon of honey

Directions
Add 1/2 teaspoon Cayenne Pepper to 1 cup of boiling water. Stir in the honey, and wait until the mixture is warm-but not hot-before drinking throughout the day as needed. Make sure to stir it frequently, as the Cayenne tends to settle. If you’re sensitive to spice, reduce the pepper to as little as 1/8 of a teaspoon.

8. Drink Licorice Root Tea

By drinking licorice root tea you can naturally get some relief for your sore throat. The anti-viral and anti-inflammatory properties of licorice root help reduce swelling and irritation, and soothe the mucus membranes in your throat. You can buy tea with licorice in it, or brew up your own. The recipe below has a few extra ingredients to make this at home remedy for sore throats taste extra yummy and comforting.

You will need…
-1 cup chopped dry licorice root
-1/2 cup cinnamon chips
-2 tablespoons whole cloves
-1/2 cup chamomile flowers

Directions
Mix everything in a bowl thoroughly. Store in a glass jar away from light and heat if you wish to save some for later. To prepare the tea, combine 3 heaping tablespoons of the tea mix and 2.5 cups of cold water in a saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, than reduce heat to low, and simmer for 10 minutes. Pour into a large mug through a strainer, sip, and enjoy.

Recipe courtesy of Nourishing Days (www.nourishingdays.com)

9. Get Your Rest & Fluids

It’s an obvious one, but its repeated so often for a reason, so don’t brush it off. Combine it with other natural remedies, and it may boost their effectiveness as well. Make sure you’re letting your body rest, and drink as much fluid as you can!

You will need…
-A comfy place to curl up
-Water, orange juice, more water, herbal tea, and anything else liquid you deem appropriate (alcohol and caffeine should be avoided.)

Directions
Get a good book or order your favorite movie. Get cozy, rest, and drink, drink, drink!

10. Make Baking Soda “Tea”

Baking soda is often times touted as a simple, straightforward, and effective home remedy for sore throats. The reason? Baking soda has antibacterial properties, which could help to kill off the nasties camping out in your throat. It also has a slightly Alkaline PH-this soothes minor skin irritations such as bug bites and rashes, and it will act similarly on the swollen tissues in your throat. Toss in some salt (see #1 for details on salt) and you have a mixture that’s set up for soothing success.

You will need…
-1 cup of very warm water
-1/2 teaspoon salt
-1/2 teaspoon or a little less baking soda

Directions
Heat the water until it is very warm, but not so warm that you can’t drink it. Mix in ½ teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon or a little less baking soda, stir, and test the temperature. Pour some of the liquid into your throat, let it sit for a moment, then gargle. Do this twice in a row 3 times daily.

11. Hunker In With Honeysuckle

There’s a reason why there has recently been a resurgence of the use of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for both humans and animals alike-many of the natural remedies really work. TCM has the effects and properties of various plants down to a science, and while medical treatment has changed, those same plants remain working just as well as they did way back when they were discovered. Blessed with a name so tasty you just want to cram it into your mouth, Honeysuckle is one of those plants. It is extremely effective in easing coughs, sore throats, and flu symptoms. Thanks to its bacterial fighting properties, it can help ward off the nasty buggers in your system, and keep them from coming back. On top of that, it flushes toxins out of your bloodstream, and works as an anti-inflammatory to help reduce the swelling tissue in your throats. To enjoy its benefits, just brew yourself a fresh cup of piping hot tea.

You will need…
-2 cups of Honeysuckle flowers & leaves (fresh is best)
-1 quart of water
-A way to heat the water

Directions
If you’re lucky enough to live by wild Honeysuckle, pick two cups of the flowers and leaves in equal parts. If you don’t grow it or live by wild plants, get them at a store-it can be hard to come by sometimes, TCM shops are your best option. Once you have your leaves and flowers, simmer them in one quart of boiling water for 10 minutes. Strain, and add honey/lemon if you like.

12. Chomp Those Cloves

Cloves have been used for centuries, particularly in Traditional Chinese Medicine, but they aren’t used nearly as much nowadays. Still, cloves were often used to help ease pain in the mouth (such as toothaches) and throat. At one time dentists even commonly used it as an anesthetic, and some still do today. The reason they can be successful as a pain killer is because of the substance eugenol they contain. Eugenol can be a natural pain killer, and can act as an anti-bacterial as well. Chewing on whole cloves will slowly release that eugenol, and hopefully numb the pain in your throat. Just try to contain your excitement at finally having an excuse to go chow down on cloves, ok?

Note: Do not substitute clove oil for whole cloves, as it may result in stomach upset.

You will need…
-Several whole cloves
-A glass of water (optional, but you should be drinking fluids anyway.)

Directions
Pop a clove or two into your mouth and suck on it until it becomes soft, and then chew as if it were gum. Swallowing them afterwards is not harmful. Use as needed.

13. Get Help From Hydrogen

Oh yes, it was the mortal enemy of any child who fell off their bike a lot, or did anything that resulted in some nasty skinned knees. You’re hurt, you’re upset that you fell, and then your mom carries you kicking and screaming into the bathroom and dumps Hydrogen Peroxide all over your cuts. Not cool mom. Of course she was correct in her actions though-it does kill off of bacteria and clean out cuts to stave off infection. With that in mind, we can broaden its use to helping a sore throat in the form of a gargle.

You will need…
-3 percent Hydrogen Peroxide
-Water
-A drinking cup

Directions
Pour one cap-full of Hydrogen Peroxide into your drinking cup. Warm up some water (don’t make it hot) and dilute the Peroxide with one capful of warm water.

Gargle thoroughly before spitting the liquid back out. If you can’t stand the taste, a little honey won’t hurt.

14. Avoid Irritants

It sounds like stating the obvious to say “avoid irritants,” but many of us are stoic creatures, and we’ll fight whatever ails us and crawl to work, soccer practice, class, or whatever it is to keep life on track. If you truly must go out, make a very conscious effort steer clear of fumes, smog, and smoke-more than usual. Breathing that stuff in will irritate the soft tissues at the back of your throat that already have enough to deal with. While lozenges can help stimulate saliva, avoid those with lots of sugar-same goes for hard candies. Caffeine and alcohol can hinder our body’s ability to fight off infection, and prolong your sore throat, so avoid them if you can. Do your best to rest up, and remember to take care of yourself (or have someone take care of you!)

You will need…
-1 bedside bell
-A serv-I mean-a good friend who will take care of you

Directions
Ring thy bell!

15. Do Pomegranate Power-Ups

The list of all the beneficial stuff contained in pomegranates is off the charts-it has something to help just about anything. Focusing in on sore throats, pomegranates can help fight off infection with anti-oxidants, while they also contain astringents. An astringent is a substance that causes contraction of body tissue, so they will help the swelling in your throat go down, in turn diminishing the pain. You can utilize these properties in a few ways, either by making tea and gargling or drinking it, or gargling/drinking juice. The tea takes a bit more work to make, so I suggest getting the ingredients prepared ahead of time so you don’t have to do much when you’re ill.

You will need…
-1 pomegranate
-3-4 cups of water

OR

-1 (or more) bottles of pomegranate juice-try to find organic/ones with less sugar

Directions
To make tea, peel the pomegranate and collect its rinds. Boil the rinds for 15 minutes or so in 3-4 cups of water (time and water amount can be adjusted to your preferences.) Drink the tea, or gargle for at least 30 seconds. You can get the rinds in advance, and then dry them in an airtight jar away from direct sunlight. That way, you have them on hand for when you get sick. If you don’t want to make the tea, gargling or drinking pomegranate juice at least 3 times a day can help as well.

16. Make Cozy Chamomile Tea

Chamomile is a natural remedy for sore throats. Its components kill off bacteria, while it works as a natural pain-killer. It also has anti-spasmodic properties (aka it helps the muscles relax) which can help you rest. Overall, it’s one soothing wonder herb.

You will need…
-1 bag of chamomile tea
-1 mug
-1 cup of boiling water

Directions
When the water has boiled, pour into your mug and add the tea bag. Cover and let steep for 10 minutes. Add a bit of honey and lemon if you like. Drink as needed.

17. Drink That Ginger

Ginger has a pretty intense-even spicy- flavor, so why would you want to ingest it when your throat is already tender and sore? It just so happens that ginger is packed with properties that will chase away the pain. It works brilliantly as a cold remedy as well, and colds and sore throats often go hand in hand. It’s an expectorant, which means it helps loosen and expel mucus from your respiratory system (including the extra mucus in your throat.) It does this in part because its aroma opens up your sinuses. It also boosts your circulation, increasing oxygen to your cells, flushing out toxins, and speeding up the healing process. To top it off it acts as an anti-inflammatory, and fights off bad bacteria too. To top the top off, you can enjoy all of ginger’s benefits in a warm, soothing, cup of tea.

You will need…

-Fresh ginger root, 2 inches long
-Honey
-A sharp knife or vegetable peeler
-A cutting board
-2-3 cups of water
-Wax paper

Directions
Wash ginger root thoroughly, then peel. Slice into small pieces, place on a cutting board, and cover it with a piece of wax paper. Crush it using a mallet, the flat side of the knife, anything-it’s not a science, a rock from your garden would probably do if it suits your fancy. If you don’t want to bother crushing, you can slice it into very small chunks after peeling. Boil your water over medium heat and then add the ginger. Let it boil for 3-5 minutes, then take a cup and enjoy it piping hot-add some honey or other flavorings if you like. You can strain it before drinking if you don’t want little bits of ginger at the bottom of your cup. Just make sure you enjoy it while it’s nice and warm!

18. Gargle Sage

Sage was used medicinally for a long, long, time well before it entered the culinary scene. Some people say it has something to cure a little bit of everything, but we’re just focusing on how to use it as an effective natural remedy for your sore throat. Sage is an astringent, meaning it causes body tissues to contract, which means that it can help with swelling. Since the tissues at the back of your throat get swollen when you’re ill, you can see why sage could be of use. The phenolic acids in sage are also known to fight and kill off the bad bacteria that could be the culprit or a contributor to your symptoms. In this case, a good way to use the sage is in the form of a gargle.

You will need…
-1 cup of boiling water
-2 teaspoons sage leaves (dried or fresh)
-1/4 ounce salt

Directions
Boil your water, and then pour it over the sage in a mug. Cover and steep for 20 minutes. Strain, add salt, and gargle as needed.

19. Avoid Milk, Or Drink It

Warm milk might seem like the perfect thing to ease your throat. It’s soothing, non-irritating, and relaxing-plus, it’s getting fluid into your body. While not true for all sore throats, if your pain comes along with congestion, it may be best to steer clear of milk. The reason is because milk coats the throat, which already has excess mucus thanks to your illness. It may also increase mucus production which, like coating the throat, would not help at all. On the other hand, if you have a very dry or raw sore throat, some milk and honey may be just the thing to help soothe it.

20. Keep Food And Drink Temperatures Moderate

A huge glass of ice water might sound fabulous, but in reality, the temperature can sometimes make the throat ache more. Same thing goes for hot-while teas and soups are often called for “hot,” err more on the side of “warm.” Liquid that is too hot will just burn and cause more pain. By letting things come to room temperature or keeping them cool rather than cold, or warm rather than hot, you can avoid aggravating your throat further (sadly, this means popsicles and ice cream may be best avoided.)

21. Spice Things Up

Truly spicy foods should be avoided when your throat hurts, but one “spicy” home remedy that helps relieve some of the pain of a sore throat (one that is the result of a cold) is cinnamon. It’s extremely high in anti-oxidants, and its aroma often times helps to open up the sinuses, which lessens the production of mucus and helps you breathe a little easier. There are some pretty straightforward remedies using cinnamon out there, including ones that involve mixing cinnamon powder straight into water. To get the best of both taste and health benefits, using “cinnamon water” is a great way to go about achieving a yummy drink that will also help you feel better.

You will need…
-1-2 cinnamon sticks
-1-1/2 cups of boiling water
-The tea of your choice

Directions
Bring water to a boil and add the cinnamon. Boil for about 2-3 minutes, and then remove the cinnamon. Steep your choice of herbal or green tea in the cinnamon water, drink, and enjoy.

*Chamomile tea steeped in cinnamon water with honey to taste would be a fabulous combo to beat off the sickness.*

22. Mix & Match

There is obviously a theme to the kinds of ingredients used in the home remedies for sore throats. If what they are, and know what’s causing the sore throat, you can try different combinations to see what works for you. There’s a surprising amount of variation, even on things as simple as salt water gargles! Some examples- some people will suggest simply lemon juice and honey, while some say honey and warm water, or others say combine all three and then add a pinch of cayenne.

If none of the remedies above seem to do it for you, below are 5 ingredients that we found to be the most prevalent in helping a sore throat, be it on their own, combined, or in another form.

1. Salt: It draws the water out of your swollen mucus membranes, reducing swelling and pain.

2. Honey: Comforting and soothing honey helps coat the throat when it is dry, scratchy and painful. It also kills bacteria. It should not be given to children under 2 years of age.

3. Lemon: Cuts through unwanted mucus, kills bacteria, and can help dull the pain in sore spots. Often used with honey.

4. Apple Cider Vinegar: It’s a major germ-buster, and while it may seem counter-intuitive, ACV can really help relieve your sore throat.

5. Baking Soda: Due to its PH levels it can help soothe minor skin irritations, and also helps rid your body of bad bacteria that could be lurking about and making things worse.

Knowing what causes the sore throat can allow you to know how to treat it. Below are a few of the biggest culprits.

• Swelling: The swelling of the tissues in your throat cause pain-look for something that works as an anti-inflammatory or astringent.

• Dryness: Find something that will coat your throat, but NOT create more mucus.

• Bacteria: Sore throats can be cause by bacteria. Find something that naturally kills off the germs.

The next time you feel your throat starting to get painful, use any of the above as soon as possible. In the middle of the worst sore throat you’ve ever had, drinking tea probably won’t feel like much in comparison to the effect of over-the counter pain medication, but home remedies can stop it before it has much chance to get worse.

While there is no miracle cure, natural home remedies have also been shown to shorten the duration of cold and flu symptoms (ahem, sore throat) and lessen the severity of the symptoms throughout the time you’re ill. When taking a more natural route for treatment, you’re body feels better than when you’re taking OTC drugs (even if you don’t feel it right away) and a healthy body means a healthy recovery.

https://everydayroots.com/sore-throat-remedies