Natural remedies: what works and what doesn't work

You often hear about natural remedies, but which ones really work?

We delve into some of the most frequently referenced natural remedies so we can tell you which ones are legitimate and which ones you can skip.

Chicken soup for colds.

Chicken soup has always been touted as a cold cure, but what does the science say? Well, studies actually support this claim. One study suggested that chicken soup has a mild anti-inflammatory effect, and the warm liquids help increase the movement of nasal fluids.

Honey for coughs.

Science also supports using honey for coughs. One study found that giving two teaspoons of honey at bedtime helped improve sleep and reduced coughing at night. Another study found that it was as effective as the most common over-the-counter cough suppressant medications. The only caution is to never give it to children under one year of age.

Magnesium for stress.

Magnesium plays a significant role in many essential bodily functions, and numerous studies have found that it plays an important role in relieving anxiety and stress.

Researchers believe it probably works because it helps some brain functions that are essential for reducing stress and anxiety.

Vitamin D for the relief of anxiety and stress.

We know that vitamin D plays an essential role in immune health, brain health, nerve health and mood regulation.

Research has even established a link between depression and low vitamin D levels. Although some research suggests that there is an association between low vitamin D levels and stress and anxiety, studies have produced mixed results.

Ginger for nausea and indigestion.

Some studies support the use of ginger for gastrointestinal disorders, such as nausea and indigestion.

It has even been found to be effective in further reducing nausea in chemotherapy patients when used in conjunction with anti-nausea medications.

Aloe vera for sunburn.

Several studies have shown that aloe vera can help heal first and second degree burns, including light and moderate sunburns.

More recently, researchers have discovered that a compound in aloe known as aloin also offers anti-inflammatory benefits. In addition, aloe vera helps moisturize the skin and prevents the peeling that often occurs after sunburn.

Cranberries for urinary tract infections.

Cranberries can help treat urinary tract infections (UTIs) but there is a caveat. Don’t drink a bottle of cranberry juice, particularly since many juices are loaded with sugar. While cranberry capsules have been shown to offer relief and even prevent UTIs, cranberry juice by itself doesn’t work.

Capsaicin for pain relief.

Capsaicin, a chemical compound found in chili peppers that gives them their characteristic spicy flavor, is also known to relieve pain. Numerous studies have investigated gels, patches and other presentations of capsaicin, and found that, with its use, patients enjoyed a reduction in pain and their quality of life improved.

Probiotics for diarrhea and the immune system.

Probiotics have been extensively studied and have been found to contribute to immune health. They can also help relieve diarrhea problems as well as other digestive symptoms. When the intestinal flora becomes out of balance, it can lead to digestive problems such as irritable bowel and diarrhea. Taking probiotics can not only boost the immune system, but also help treat and prevent diarrhea.

Elderberries.

Elderberries have long been recommended as a remedy for influenza, and several recent studies support what anecdotal evidence has long shown. Researchers found that elderberries have an antiviral effect that works against the influenza virus. It acts by inhibiting the early stages of influenza, but also inhibits virus replication even in a later cycle of the disease.

Ubiquinol for migraines and heart health.

Ubiquinol is the active form of coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) and helps to generate energy inside the cells of our body. In fact, many health conditions are associated with low levels of this compound.

Studies show that Ubiquinol is effective in improving heart function and treating heart failure. Researchers have also found that Ubiquinol supplements help reduce the number of migraines, as it has been observed in studies that many migraine sufferers have a CoQ10 deficiency.

Valerian for sleep.

Some studies show that taking valerian can help you fall asleep faster and even improve sleep quality. However, not all studies show that this herbal treatment is effective, and there are some potential dangers. The recommended dosages are still unclear and valerian can cause side effects, plus there is the possibility of interacting with other medications and dietary supplements.

Sodium bicarbonate of soda for heartburn.

Baking soda or baking soda may help with occasional heartburn. In fact, some prescription and over-the-counter heartburn medications contain this ingredient.

Although its alkaline pH can help neutralize stomach acid and relieve heartburn symptoms, it is only a temporary solution for acid reflux. A physician should be consulted whenever heartburn occurs regularly or continues for more than two weeks.

Echinacea for upper respiratory tract infections.

Some evidence from published studies suggests that echinacea may be useful in the treatment of upper respiratory tract infections. Other studies have found no evidence that it reduces the duration of these infections. Because echinacea preparations vary significantly in composition, researchers have not yet determined the appropriate dosage.

Garlic for cholesterol and heart health.

Garlic, which is celebrated for its numerous health benefits, offers proven heart benefits and lowers cholesterol. Numerous studies show that garlic helps reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) and total cholesterol levels.

Scientists have also found that garlic effectively lowers blood pressure in people with hypertension. Garlic’s ability to lower cholesterol and blood pressure helps improve heart health and prevent heart disease, heart attacks and strokes.

References
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2206236/
https://www.healthline.com/health/most-powerful-medicinal-plants#grapeseed-extract
https://www.mdlinx.com/article/7-clinically-proven-natural-remedies/lfc-3813
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27670440/
https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/vitamin-d-and-your-health-breaking-old-rules-raising-new-hopes