Here are some old fashioned home remedies for common complaints. Many of them I am sure are “old wives tales” but modern science has proved many of these “old wives tales” to have a legitimate scientific reason for being effective.

Burns

(Including sunburn, brush burns, scrapes and chemical burns) Keep cool water with a little vinegar added in it on the area until the burning stops. The pain may last from four to six hours but continue using the compresses or soaking until you are relieved. If the burn doesn’t blister, Aloe Vera gel, fluoride toothpaste or any soothing medicated cream should help. After 24 to 48 hours, if blistering has occurred, cut the blisters off and wash with povidone-iodine solution (Betadine).

For the Ulcers

Take 4 ounces honey, tinct. of myrrh and vinegar, of each an ounce, loaf sugar, two ounces, Borax and balsam sulphur, of each half an ounce–mix this to a balsam with the yolk of an egg, with a rag tied to a skewer to cleanse and anoint the ulcers after every gargling.

Asthma Foot

If your are having an asthma attack and you are out of your medication, drink two to four cups of strong, black coffee.The caffeine in the coffee may give you some relief until you can get your medication. Jason Chu from San Francisco writes; “You note that caffeine is the active agent to offer some relief. Actually, it is not the caffeine which can actually aggravate someone who is excited, but the theophylline which is also in coffee that causes vasodialation and the relief associated with consuming coffee. The warm water vapor steaming from the cup of coffee also helps.” Thanks Jason! Or, try this old time remedy: Roll spider webs in a ball and swallow. Believe it or not, but this remedy is still being researched today!

Muscle Cramps

An old time remedy for muscle cramps is two teaspoons of honey with meals. If this is done on a regular basis, the cramping will usually diminish within one to two weeks. It is recommended that the honey be taken on a regular basis to prevent the muscle cramps returning once you get them to stop. This has proven to be effective in cases of cramps in the feet and legs during the night.

Arthritis Pain. Quaker Oats for fast pain relief. It’s not just for breakfast anymore. Mix 2 cups of Quaker Oats and 1 cup of water in a bowl and warm in the microwave for 1 minute, cool slightly, and apply the mixture to your hands for soothing relief from arthritis pain. It’s also great for facials and to soften hands.