7 Home Remedies That Are Worth Trying Once (According to Science)

Introduction

Let’s be honest—most of us have a soft spot for a good home remedy. Whether it’s a steaming mug of tea your grandmother made for every cold or a friend swearing by a spoonful of honey for a cough, these kitchen-table cures have been passed down through generations for a reason. They’re simple, affordable, and often surprisingly effective.

But with so much information (and misinformation) floating around online, it can be tough to separate the old wives’ tales from the remedies that actually deliver. That’s exactly why we’ve put together this guide. We’ve combed through the research to find home remedies that are worth trying once—the ones with genuine science behind them, not just wishful thinking.

From soothing a scratchy throat to calming an upset stomach, these natural solutions use ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. They won’t replace a visit to your doctor, but they just might become your new go-to for everyday discomforts. Let’s dive into the remedies that truly earn their place in your medicine cabinet.

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What Are Home Remedies?

Home remedies are treatments made from common, natural ingredients—think herbs, spices, pantry staples, and plants—that people use to relieve minor symptoms and support general wellness. Unlike prescription medications, they don’t require a trip to the pharmacy. Instead, they rely on the power of nature and traditional knowledge.

What makes a home remedy “worth trying”? It comes down to a few key factors: the remedy should be safe, affordable, easy to prepare, and—most importantly—backed by at least some credible evidence or a long history of safe traditional use. While no home remedy is a magic bullet, many can provide genuine comfort and support when you’re feeling under the weather.

In this article, we’re focusing on remedies that meet these criteria. We’ll explore exactly what each one is, how to make it, how to use it, and what the science actually says.

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Remedy #1: Honey for Cough and Sore Throat

Key Ingredients

How to Make It

1. Heat one cup of water until warm (not boiling—hot water can destroy some of honey’s beneficial compounds).

2. Stir in 1 to 2 teaspoons of raw honey until fully dissolved.

3. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if desired.

4. Sip slowly while warm.

Storage: This remedy is best consumed fresh. You can store a honey-lemon mixture in the refrigerator for up to a week, but it’s most effective when made and drunk right away.

How to Use It

Take this honey drink at the first sign of a tickle in your throat or when a cough is keeping you up at night. For adults, you can take up to a spoonful of honey several times a day as needed.

Important note: Never give honey to a child under 12 months old due to the risk of infant botulism.

Potential Benefits

May Soothe Nighttime Coughs

Research suggests that honey can be an effective cough suppressant. A 2018 Cochrane review found that honey reduces acute cough symptoms in children more effectively than a placebo. Studies also indicate that honey can reduce the severity and frequency of coughing in both children and adults with upper respiratory infections. As you swallow honey, it coats the throat and helps calm the nerve receptors that trigger the cough reflex.

May Support Immune Function

Honey contains antioxidants and compounds with antimicrobial properties that may help support your body’s natural defenses. While it shouldn’t be relied upon to fight off an infection, it can be a comforting addition to your wellness routine.

Why These Ingredients May Work

Honey is primarily composed of sugars, but it also contains small amounts of flavonoids, phenolic acids, and enzymes that give it antioxidant and antimicrobial activity. The thick, viscous texture helps coat and soothe irritated throat tissues. Some studies have even shown honey to be more effective than certain over-the-counter cough medications for relieving nighttime cough symptoms.

Who May Benefit From This Remedy

Adults and children over age one who are dealing with a mild cough or sore throat from a common cold may find this remedy helpful. It’s a safe, natural alternative to commercial cough syrups for many people.

Possible Side Effects and Safety Precautions

Honey is generally safe for most adults. However, people with diabetes should be mindful of the sugar content. Those with severe pollen allergies should exercise caution, as raw honey may contain trace amounts of pollen.

Who Should Avoid It

• Infants under 12 months (risk of infant botulism)

• People with known allergies to bee products

• Individuals with diabetes should monitor their blood sugar

How Long Does It Take to See Results?

Many people experience immediate soothing relief in the throat after taking honey. For cough suppression, you may notice improvement within 30 minutes to an hour.

Tips for Best Results

• Use raw, unprocessed honey for maximum benefits

• Choose local honey if possible—it may contain regional pollens that could help with seasonal sensitivities

• Take honey straight off the spoon if you prefer not to make tea

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using boiling water, which can degrade some of honey’s beneficial compounds

• Giving honey to infants under one year old

• Expecting honey to cure a bacterial infection—it’s a symptom soother, not an antibiotic

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Remedy #2: Ginger for Nausea and Upset Stomach

Key Ingredients

How to Make It

1. Peel and grate a 1-inch piece of fresh ginger root.

2. Place the grated ginger in a mug and pour 1 cup of boiling water over it.

3. Let it steep for 5–10 minutes.

4. Strain out the ginger pieces.

5. Add honey to taste if desired.

Preparation time: 10 minutes

Storage: Fresh ginger tea is best consumed immediately. You can store grated ginger in the refrigerator for up to a week.

How to Use It

Drink a cup of ginger tea when you feel nauseous, whether from motion sickness, morning sickness, or an upset stomach. For best results, sip it slowly. You can also chew on a small piece of crystallized ginger or take ginger capsules (follow package directions).

Potential Benefits

May Relieve Nausea and Vomiting

Ginger has a long and well-documented history as an effective treatment for nausea. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists mentions ginger as an acceptable non-pharmaceutical remedy for nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. Research also supports its use for motion sickness, postoperative nausea, and chemotherapy-related nausea.

May Support Digestive Health

Ginger encourages efficient digestion by helping food move through the stomach more quickly, which can relieve bloating, gas, and general digestive discomfort.

Why These Ingredients May Work

Ginger contains active compounds called gingerols and shogaols, which have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antiemetic (anti-nausea) effects. Unlike many anti-nausea medications that work on the brain, ginger appears to work directly on the stomach and digestive tract, which makes it a gentle and effective option for many people.

Who May Benefit From This Remedy

• Pregnant women experiencing morning sickness

• People prone to motion sickness

• Anyone with mild indigestion or an upset stomach

• Individuals undergoing chemotherapy (consult your doctor first)

Possible Side Effects and Safety Precautions

Ginger is generally safe, but high doses (more than 5 grams per day) may cause heartburn, diarrhea, or stomach discomfort. It may also have mild blood-thinning effects, so people on blood-thinning medications should consult a healthcare provider before using ginger medicinally.

Who Should Avoid It

• People with gallstone disease (ginger may increase bile production)

• Individuals on blood-thinning medications (consult your doctor)

• Those with a known allergy to ginger

How Long Does It Take to See Results?

Many people experience relief from nausea within 30 minutes to an hour of consuming ginger.

Tips for Best Results

• Use fresh ginger rather than dried for the most potent effects

• Start with a small amount and increase gradually to find your tolerance

• Keep candied ginger in your bag for on-the-go nausea relief

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using too much ginger, which can cause heartburn

• Expecting ginger to treat severe or persistent vomiting—seek medical care for that

• Drinking ginger tea that’s too hot, which can irritate an already sensitive stomach

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Remedy #3: Peppermint Oil for Tension Headaches

Key Ingredients

How to Make It

1. Combine 2–3 drops of peppermint essential oil with 1 teaspoon of a carrier oil.

2. Mix well.

3. Apply a small amount to your temples and forehead, avoiding the eyes.

Preparation time: 2 minutes

Storage: Store the mixture in a small glass bottle in a cool, dark place for up to a month.

How to Use It

At the first sign of a tension headache, gently massage the diluted peppermint oil mixture into your temples and forehead. You can reapply every 15–30 minutes as needed. The cooling sensation should provide relief within about 30 minutes.

Potential Benefits

May Relieve Tension Headaches

Clinical studies have shown that topical application of peppermint oil can provide pain relief comparable to common over-the-counter medications for tension headaches. A 10% peppermint oil solution applied to the forehead and temples has been shown to reduce headache intensity.

May Improve Blood Flow and Relax Muscles

The menthol in peppermint oil creates a cooling sensation that can help relax tight muscles in the head and neck while stimulating blood flow to the area.

Why These Ingredients May Work

Peppermint oil contains menthol, which activates cold-sensitive receptors in the skin. This creates a cooling sensation that can help inhibit muscle contractions and improve local blood circulation. The relaxing effect on tense muscles may help ease the muscle tension that often contributes to tension headaches.

Who May Benefit From This Remedy

Adults who experience occasional tension headaches may find peppermint oil helpful. It’s a natural alternative to over-the-counter pain relievers for mild to moderate headaches.

Possible Side Effects and Safety Precautions

Peppermint oil is potent and can cause skin irritation if not properly diluted. Always use a carrier oil. Avoid contact with eyes and mucous membranes. Some people may experience an allergic reaction—test on a small patch of skin first.

Who Should Avoid It

• People with sensitive skin

• Those with a known allergy to peppermint or menthol

• Children under 6 years old (peppermint oil can cause respiratory distress)

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women (consult a doctor first)

How Long Does It Take to See Results?

Many people experience headache relief within 30 minutes of application.

Tips for Best Results

• Apply at the very first sign of a headache

• Use a high-quality, pure peppermint essential oil

• Combine with a cold compress for extra relief

• Store in a dark glass bottle to preserve potency

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Applying undiluted peppermint oil directly to the skin (can cause burns)

• Getting the oil in your eyes (wash immediately with carrier oil, not water)

• Using peppermint oil on broken or irritated skin

• Expecting it to work for migraine headaches (consult your doctor for migraines)

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Remedy #4: Chamomile Tea for Better Sleep

Key Ingredients

How to Make It

1. Place 1–2 teaspoons of dried chamomile flowers or one chamomile tea bag in a mug.

2. Pour 1 cup of boiling water over the flowers.

3. Let it steep for 5–10 minutes.

4. Strain or remove the tea bag.

5. Add honey if desired.

Preparation time: 10 minutes

How to Use It

Drink a cup of chamomile tea about 30–60 minutes before you plan to go to sleep. This gives your body time to wind down and allows the mild sedative effects to kick in. You can also drink chamomile tea during the day to help with mild anxiety or stress.

Potential Benefits

May Improve Sleep Quality

Chamomile contains apigenin, a flavonoid that binds to certain receptors in the brain and may promote sleepiness. Some research has shown that chamomile can improve sleep quality and reduce the number of nighttime awakenings. While the effects are generally mild compared to prescription sleep aids, many people find it helpful for winding down.

May Help with Mild Anxiety

Chamomile has been traditionally used to ease anxiety, and some studies suggest it may have a small but noticeable effect on anxiety symptoms.

Why These Ingredients May Work

Apigenin, the active compound in chamomile, binds to benzodiazepine receptors in the brain, producing a mild sedative effect. Chamomile also contains antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation and support overall relaxation.

Who May Benefit From This Remedy

Adults who have trouble falling asleep or experience mild anxiety may find chamomile tea useful. It’s a gentle, caffeine-free alternative to sleep medications.

Possible Side Effects and Safety Precautions

Chamomile is generally safe, but some people may experience allergic reactions, especially those allergic to ragweed, chrysanthemums, or other plants in the daisy family. In rare cases, it may interact with blood-thinning medications.

Who Should Avoid It

• People with allergies to ragweed, daisies, or chrysanthemums

• Those on blood-thinning medications (consult your doctor)

• Pregnant women (consult your doctor before using medicinally)

How Long Does It Take to See Results?

You may feel relaxed within 30 minutes of drinking chamomile tea. For sleep benefits, consistent use over several days to weeks may yield the best results.

Tips for Best Results

• Make it part of a relaxing bedtime routine

• Avoid screens for at least 30 minutes after drinking

• Use high-quality dried chamomile flowers for the best flavor and potency

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Expecting chamomile to cure severe insomnia (it’s a mild aid, not a cure)

• Drinking it right before bed (give yourself 30–60 minutes for best results)

• Adding too much honey, which can spike blood sugar and disrupt sleep

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Remedy #5: Salt Water Gargle for Sore Throat

Key Ingredients

How to Make It

1. Warm 1 cup of water until it’s comfortably warm (not hot).

2. Stir in ½ teaspoon of salt until fully dissolved.

3. Take a mouthful of the solution, tilt your head back, and gargle for 30–60 seconds.

4. Spit it out—do not swallow.

Preparation time: 2 minutes

Storage: Make fresh each time—do not store salt water for more than a few hours.

How to Use It

Gargle with salt water up to several times a day, especially when you feel a sore throat coming on or when you wake up with throat discomfort. It’s most effective when used at the first sign of a sore throat.

Potential Benefits

May Soothe Sore Throat Pain

Salt water helps draw fluid out of inflamed throat tissues, reducing swelling and providing temporary pain relief. The warm water also helps soothe irritated tissues.

May Reduce Bacteria in the Throat

Salt has natural antibacterial properties that can help reduce the number of bacteria in the mouth and throat. This may help prevent secondary infections and promote faster healing.

Why These Ingredients May Work

The salt creates a hypertonic solution that draws fluid out of the swollen tissues in your throat through osmosis. This reduces inflammation and can help flush out irritants and bacteria. The warm water soothes the throat and helps loosen mucus.

Who May Benefit From This Remedy

Anyone with a mild sore throat from a cold, allergies, or dry air may find salt water gargling helpful. It’s also beneficial for people with minor mouth sores or gum irritation.

Possible Side Effects and Safety Precautions

Salt water gargling is very safe for most people. The only real risk is swallowing too much salt water, which can cause nausea. Use the correct ratio (½ teaspoon per cup) and always spit it out.

Who Should Avoid It

• People with high blood pressure should avoid swallowing the solution (but gargling and spitting is fine)

• Children under 6 who may not be able to gargle safely

How Long Does It Take to See Results?

You should feel immediate relief during and immediately after gargling. For lasting effects, gargle several times a day.

Tips for Best Results

• Use warm water—it’s more soothing than cold

• Gargle for a full 30–60 seconds for maximum benefit

• Gargle first thing in the morning and last thing at night

• Combine with honey tea for double the throat-soothing power

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using too much salt, which can irritate the throat further

• Swallowing the salt water (it’s for gargling only)

• Using water that’s too hot, which can burn sensitive throat tissues

• Expecting it to cure strep throat (see a doctor for that)

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Remedy #6: Turmeric and Ginger Tea for Inflammation

Key Ingredients

How to Make It

1. Peel and grate the turmeric and ginger (or use ground versions).

2. Bring 2 cups of water to a boil.

3. Add the grated turmeric, ginger, and a pinch of black pepper.

4. Reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes.

5. Strain into a mug.

6. Add honey to taste.

Preparation time: 15 minutes

Storage: You can store the tea in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before drinking.

How to Use It

Drink 1–2 cups of this tea daily, especially during cold and flu season or when you’re feeling run down. You can also drink it after a workout to support muscle recovery.

Potential Benefits

May Support Joint Health

Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, is a potent anti-inflammatory agent. Research suggests it may help support joint health and reduce inflammation in the body.

May Support Immune Function

Both turmeric and ginger contain antioxidants that may help support the immune system and protect cells from oxidative stress. Honey adds additional antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.

Why These Ingredients May Work

Curcumin (from turmeric) and gingerols (from ginger) are both well-studied for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The black pepper contains piperine, which can increase the absorption of curcumin by up to 2,000%. Honey’s flavonoids and polyphenols work synergistically with these spices.

Who May Benefit From This Remedy

Adults looking for natural ways to support joint health, reduce everyday inflammation, or boost their immune system during cold season may find this remedy helpful.

Possible Side Effects and Safety Precautions

Turmeric is generally safe, but high doses may cause stomach upset in some people. It may also have mild blood-thinning effects. Ginger can cause heartburn in sensitive individuals. Start with small amounts to test your tolerance.

Who Should Avoid It

• People with gallstones or bile duct obstruction

• Those on blood-thinning medications (consult your doctor)

• Individuals with iron deficiency (turmeric may interfere with iron absorption)

• People with a known allergy to any of the ingredients

How Long Does It Take to See Results?

For acute symptoms, you may notice some relief within a few hours. For ongoing support, consistent daily use over several weeks may be more beneficial.

Tips for Best Results

• Always add black pepper to turmeric-based remedies for better absorption

• Use fresh turmeric if available—it has a brighter flavor

• Add a splash of coconut milk or olive oil—curcumin is fat-soluble

• Drink consistently for best results

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Forgetting the black pepper (without it, curcumin absorption is poor)

• Using too much turmeric, which can stain your teeth and countertops

• Expecting turmeric to replace prescription medications for serious conditions

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Remedy #7: Lemon and Honey Water for General Wellness

Key Ingredients

How to Make It

1. Squeeze the juice of half a lemon into a mug.

2. Add 1–2 teaspoons of raw honey.

3. Pour in 1 cup of warm water.

4. Stir until the honey dissolves.

5. Drink it first thing in the morning or whenever you need a pick-me-up.

Preparation time: 3 minutes

How to Use It

Many people enjoy this drink first thing in the morning on an empty stomach to start their day hydrated. You can also drink it throughout the day when you feel a cold coming on or when you need a soothing, warm beverage.

Potential Benefits

May Support Hydration

Starting your day with a warm glass of lemon water is an excellent way to rehydrate after a night’s sleep. Proper hydration supports every system in your body.

May Soothe a Sore Throat

The combination of warm water, honey, and lemon can be incredibly soothing for a scratchy throat. Honey coats and soothes, while lemon provides vitamin C and a refreshing taste.

May Support Digestion

Lemon water may help stimulate digestion and support the natural detoxification processes of the liver.

Why These Ingredients May Work

Lemon is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants that support immune function. Honey provides antimicrobial and soothing properties. The warm water helps hydrate and can help thin mucus.

Who May Benefit From This Remedy

Anyone looking for a simple, refreshing way to start their day or soothe a mild sore throat may benefit. It’s a gentle, natural beverage suitable for most adults.

Possible Side Effects and Safety Precautions

Lemon juice is acidic and can erode tooth enamel over time. Rinse your mouth with plain water after drinking, or drink through a straw. People with acid reflux or heartburn may find lemon water aggravates their symptoms.

Who Should Avoid It

• People with severe acid reflux or GERD (consult your doctor)

• Those with citrus allergies

• People with mouth sores (the acid may sting)

How Long Does It Take to See Results?

You’ll feel the soothing effects on your throat immediately. For general wellness benefits, consistent daily use is recommended.

Tips for Best Results

• Use a straw to protect your tooth enamel

• Rinse your mouth with plain water after drinking

• Use organic lemons if possible to avoid pesticide residues

• Drink it warm, not hot, to preserve honey’s beneficial properties

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Using boiling water (can destroy honey’s beneficial enzymes)

• Adding too much lemon (can be hard on tooth enamel)

• Expecting lemon water to “detox” your body in a dramatic way (your liver does that naturally)

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General Safety and Precautions for Home Remedies

Possible Side Effects and Safety Precautions

While the remedies we’ve covered are generally safe for most people, it’s important to remember that “natural” doesn’t always mean “risk-free.” Here are some important safety considerations:

• Allergies: Some people may be allergic to ingredients like honey, chamomile, peppermint, or ginger. Always test a small amount first if you’re trying an ingredient for the first time.

• Interactions: Some natural remedies can interact with prescription medications. For example, ginger and turmeric may have blood-thinning effects, and chamomile may interact with blood thinners.

• Quality Matters: Use high-quality, food-grade ingredients. Essential oils should be pure and meant for topical use.

• Moderation: More is not always better. Stick to recommended amounts.

Who Should Avoid Home Remedies

Certain groups should be especially cautious:

• Pregnant and breastfeeding women: Some herbs and essential oils may not be safe during pregnancy or while nursing. Always consult your healthcare provider.

• Infants and young children: Honey is unsafe for infants under 12 months. Essential oils should be used with extreme caution around children.

• People with chronic conditions: If you have diabetes, heart disease, liver or kidney issues, or any other chronic condition, talk to your doctor before using home remedies.

• People on multiple medications: Natural ingredients can interact with prescription drugs.

When to See a Doctor

Home remedies are for minor, temporary symptoms. Seek medical attention if you experience:

• A fever over 101°F (38.3°C)

• Severe or worsening pain

• Difficulty breathing or swallowing

• Symptoms that last more than a week

• Any concerning or unusual symptoms

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Are home remedies safe for everyone?

Not always. While many home remedies are safe for most healthy adults, they may not be suitable for pregnant women, infants, young children, or people with certain medical conditions. Always check with your healthcare provider before starting any new remedy, especially if you’re on medication or have a chronic condition.

2. Can I use home remedies alongside my regular medications?

Some natural ingredients can interact with prescription drugs. For example, ginger, turmeric, and chamomile may have mild blood-thinning effects, which could be problematic if you’re on blood thinners. Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before combining home remedies with medications.

3. How do I know if a home remedy is actually working?

You should notice a reduction in your symptoms within a reasonable timeframe—usually within a few hours to a few days. If your symptoms don’t improve, or if they get worse, stop using the remedy and see a healthcare professional.

4. Can I use these remedies for my children?

Some remedies are safe for children over certain ages (e.g., honey for cough in children over 1 year old). However, children’s bodies process things differently, and some herbs and essential oils are not safe for children. Always consult a pediatrician before giving any home remedy to a child.

5. What’s the best home remedy for a cough?

Honey is one of the most well-studied home remedies for cough. A spoonful of honey or honey in warm tea can help soothe a cough and sore throat. Research suggests honey can be more effective than some over-the-counter cough medicines. Remember: never give honey to infants under 12 months.

6. How often can I gargle with salt water?

You can gargle with salt water several times a day—many sources recommend every 3 hours when you have a sore throat. Just make sure you’re using the correct ratio (½ teaspoon salt per 1 cup warm water) and spitting it out afterward.

7. Does peppermint oil really help headaches?

Yes, research suggests that topical peppermint oil can help relieve tension headaches. A 10% peppermint oil solution applied to the forehead and temples has been shown to provide pain relief comparable to some over-the-counter medications. Always dilute peppermint oil with a carrier oil before applying it to your skin.

8. Can I drink chamomile tea every night?

Yes, many people drink chamomile tea nightly as part of their bedtime routine. It’s generally safe for most adults. However, if you have allergies to ragweed or other plants in the daisy family, you may want to avoid it. Some research suggests that chamomile can improve sleep quality over time.

9. Is ginger tea safe during pregnancy?

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists mentions ginger as an acceptable non-pharmaceutical remedy for nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. However, you should always check with your OB-GYN before using any remedy while pregnant. Stick to moderate amounts—about 1 cup of ginger tea per day is generally considered safe.

10. How long do home remedies take to work?

It depends on the remedy and the symptom. Some remedies, like salt water gargles and peppermint oil for headaches, can provide relief within minutes. Others, like chamomile for sleep, may take 30–60 minutes to kick in. For chronic issues like joint inflammation, consistent daily use over weeks may be needed to notice significant benefits.

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Final Thoughts

Home remedies have stood the test of time for good reason. They’re simple, accessible, and often surprisingly effective for minor, everyday discomforts. From a spoonful of honey for a cough to a warm cup of chamomile tea before bed, these natural solutions can make a real difference in how you feel.

That said, it’s important to keep things in perspective. Home remedies are complements to—not replacements for—professional medical care. They’re wonderful for symptom relief and supporting your body’s natural healing processes, but they’re not cures for serious illnesses. If you’re dealing with persistent, severe, or concerning symptoms, please see a healthcare provider.

The remedies we’ve covered here—honey, ginger, peppermint oil, chamomile, salt water, turmeric, and lemon—are all backed by a combination of traditional use and scientific research. They’re safe for most people when used correctly, and they just might become your new favorite go-tos for everyday wellness.

So go ahead—brew that ginger tea, gargle that salt water, or diffuse that peppermint oil. Your body will thank you.