Surprisingly Helpful Home Remedies That Actually Work

Discover some effective home remedies for everyday health issues like soothing sore throats, easing headaches, minimising period cramps, and much more!

Home remedies refer to traditional or natural treatments for common ailments or health issues that make use of ingredients or household items typically found in cupboards and pantries at home. Valued for their accessibility, and affordability, a range of home remedies can be used to alleviate symptoms like colds, headaches, digestive problems, and minor injuries.

If you have run out of over-the-counter treatments and cannot immediately get hold of what you need or do not want to initially rely on pharmaceuticals or medical interventions, then finding alternatives to use can be a viable option. Additionally, incorporating various home remedies into daily routines is a great way to foster a proactive approach to maintaining overall wellness.

It’s important to note that while using home remedies can be an effective choice for looking after your well-being, they are only meant for common, temporary, mild, and minor symptoms and ailments. If any of the issues listed in this article are severe, persistent, or do not improve in a reasonable amount of time, seeking out medical advice from a professional is advised. It’s also essential that before using a home remedy, you ask your doctor whether it’s safe for you to do so.

While there may be varying results and effectiveness for different people, generally speaking, home remedies can provide some comfort from various everyday health afflictions. The treatments listed below are not going to be a quick or guaranteed cure, but they can offer some relief.

Content List: Sore Throat | Headache | Cough | Toothache | Ear Infection | Stomach Upset | Diarrhea | Constipation | Period Cramps | UTIs | Heartburn | Toenail Fungus | Head Lice

How To Soothe a Sore Throat With Salt

Gargle with salty water by dissolving half a teaspoon of salt in eight ounces (one cup) of warm water, repeating once every hour or as needed until symptoms improve. Aim to gargle for 30 seconds, but less is fine if that is all you can manage.

How It Helps:

• Salt draws out excess moisture from inflamed tissues, reducing swelling and discomfort.
• The gargling action flushes out irritants and bacteria, promoting healing and providing temporary relief from pain and inflammation (which is why it’s often recommended after a tooth extraction).

Health and Safety:

• Not suitable for children under six years old or anyone who finds gargling challenging.
• Spit out and rinse after gargling—do not swallow the salt solution.
• If symptoms do not improve or continue to worsen, consult a doctor.
• Check with a medical professional before using salt if you have high blood pressure or are limiting your sodium intake.

How To Soothe a Sore Throat With Honey

Take a teaspoonful of honey on its own (neat) up to three times per day as long as symptoms last. 

How It Helps:

• Honey has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties that can support fighting infections.
• Its natural enzymes may help combat infection and promote healing.
• Honey has a high viscosity that when swallowed can form a protective barrier, providing temporary relief from the irritation and pain associated with a sore throat.

Health and Safety:

• Honey should never be given to infants under one year old due to the risk of botulism, as it contains a type of bacteria called Clostridium.
• Diabetics should reduce and monitor their intake of honey, as even though it’s naturally occurring, it’s still considered an added sugar—it will raise blood glucose levels.

How To Relieve a Headache With Water

For a dehydration-related headache, it’s important to stay hydrated. Upon immediately experiencing symptoms, slowly drink at least two cups of water; repeat as necessary until there is improvement.

How It Helps:

• Headaches have many causes, but one of the most common is dehydration, with even a mild form of it triggering decreases in blood volume that lead to constriction of blood vessels in the brain, causing pain.
• Replenishing fluids helps to restore proper circulation and alleviate headache symptoms effectively.

Health and Safety:

• General advice about remaining hydrated recommends drinking at least eight to ten glasses of water per day, or more if sweating heavily or in a hot climate.
• If you need to treat dehydration, do not drink water too quickly, as this may cause vomiting and nausea; sip the water slowly. 

How To Relieve a Headache With Cold Therapy

For other causes of a headache (not related to dehydration), place an ice pack on the back of your neck for 15 to 20 minutes at a time. After each session, allow the skin to rest for at least ten minutes to avoid any discomfort. Repeat as necessary.

How It Helps:

• Cold therapy is very good at constricting blood vessels and reducing inflammation.
• An ice pack on the back of your neck targets the trigeminal nerve, which is involved in headache and migraine pain.
• The cold temperature numbs the area, providing immediate relief and promoting relaxation.

Health and Safety:

• Wrap the ice pack in a cloth or towel to prevent direct contact with the skin, stopping potential frostbite or other irritation.
• Children should be supervised by an adult and monitored for any signs of discomfort. 
• Check with a medical professional before using cold therapy if you have: sensitivities or conditions of the skin; impaired sensation, circulation, or neuropathy; cardiovascular conditions; or any other underlying health issues that may make it unsafe to use.

How To Alleviate a Cough With Steam Therapy

For a wet cough, try sitting in a steam-filled bathroom and taking slow, deep breaths for two 15-minute sessions per day. To create the steam, let the hot taps or a hot shower run while you are in there. 

How It Helps:

• Steam inhalation loosens mucus and soothes irritated airways as it moistens the respiratory passages, making it easier to expel phlegm.
• The warmth of the steam can provide relief from congestion and promote overall respiratory comfort.

Health and Safety:

• Sitting in a steam-filled room reduces the risk of scalds and burns, which may occur when using alternative steam inhalation methods. There is no direct or near contact with heated water—you are just sitting in the room where the hot taps are running.
• To safeguard against discomfort, dehydration, or overheating, stay hydrated before, during, and after each session.
• Steam can aggravate skin issues and trigger breathing difficulties, as well as increase heart rate or lower blood pressure too quickly. Check with a medical professional before using this remedy if: you are pregnant; immune-compromised; have respiratory or heart conditions; have high blood pressure; or have skin sensitivities.

How To Alleviate a Cough With Turmeric and Black Pepper

For a dry cough, add one teaspoon of turmeric powder and a pinch of black pepper to some hot tea. Drink this slowly, once or twice a day, for a few days until symptoms improve. 

How It Helps:

• Turmeric and black pepper are both beneficial for dry coughs due to their anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
• Turmeric contains curcumin, which helps reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract, while black pepper enhances curcumin absorption. Together, they soothe irritated airways and alleviate cough symptoms effectively.

Health and Safety:

• Turmeric and black pepper are generally safe for most people when consumed in food amounts or taken orally in appropriate doses.
• Side effects are more common in higher doses, but immediately stop using turmeric in your tea if you experience bloating, indigestion, diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting.
• Turmeric and black pepper can exacerbate symptoms of certain medical conditions and interact negatively with medications. Check with a medical professional if you have: liver disease; gallbladder issues; bleeding disorders; gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD); iron deficiency; or diabetes.

How To Dull a Toothache With Cinnamon

Create a soothing mixture by combining one teaspoon of ground cinnamon with enough water to form a thick, smooth paste. Apply it directly to the affected tooth or gum area using a clean finger or cotton swab a few times a day; rinse off and spit out after five to ten minutes.

How It Helps:

• Cinnamon contains natural antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.
• Compounds such as eugenol (an anaesthetic and antibacterial agent) and cinnamaldehyde can help combat oral bacteria and reduce inflammation in the gums. 

Health and Safety:

• Using this remedy will only provide temporary relief; an appointment with a dentist is advised.
• While using a small amount of cinnamon like this is considered safe, larger doses or supplements can cause side effects like liver toxicity, gastritis or stomach ulcers, low blood glucose, and harmful interactions with medications like warfarin.
• Check with a medical professional before consuming cinnamon if you have: liver disease; gastrointestinal conditions; hypoglycemia; or you take blood-thinning treatments.

How To Dull a Toothache With Cold Therapy

Hold a cold compress (ice pack) on your cheek by the affected area for 15 to 20 minutes; repeat as necessary throughout the day.

How It Helps:

• As mentioned before (see cold therapy for a headache), using an ice pack constricts blood vessels, reduces swelling, and provides immediate relief from discomfort by numbing the afflicted area.

Health and Safety:

• To prevent irritation and damage like frostbite, wrap the cold compress in a cloth or towel to make sure there is no direct contact with the skin. Allow the skin to rest between each session to avoid prolonged exposure.
• Children should be supervised by an adult and monitored for any signs of discomfort. 
• Check with a medical professional if you have: sensitivities or conditions of the skin; impaired sensation, circulation, or neuropathy; cardiovascular conditions; or any other underlying health issues that may make it unsafe to use cold therapy.

How To Manage an Ear Infection With Hot and Cold Therapy

Alternate between hot and cold therapy by covering your ear with a hot compress for 15 minutes, then switching to a cold compress for another 15 minutes; resting the skin for 30 minutes before repeating as necessary.

How It Helps:

• Heat encourages the muscles around your ear to relax and improve blood flow, which promotes drainage.
• Cold reduces inflammation and numbs the affected area, reducing pain.
• To learn how to make a hot compress at home, click here.

Health and Safety:

• Hot compresses should be comfortably warm rather than too hot so as to avoid burns or skin discomfort.
• Both hot and cold compresses should be covered with a cloth or towel to avoid direct contact with the skin that may cause irritation or frostbite.
• Children should be supervised by an adult and monitored for any signs of discomfort. 
• If an ear infection does not improve after two days, consult a doctor.
• Check with a medical professional if you have: sensitivities or conditions of the skin; impaired sensation, circulation, or neuropathy; cardiovascular conditions; or any other underlying health issues that may make it unsafe to use hot and cold therapy.

How To Manage an Ear Infection With the Way You Sleep

Change to an elevated sleep position by propping yourself up on extra pillows.

How It Helps:

• Rest is essential while healing from any malady, but in the case of an ear infection (much like when you have a cold), sleeping in a more upright position can make it easier for the infection to drain out and ease any pressure that may have built up.

Health and Safety:

• The main thing to consider is to make sure you remain comfortable while sleeping upright to prevent muscle stiffness or pain. Adjust pillows as needed to find a position that works for you and facilitates your rest.

How To Ease a Stomach Upset With Peppermint

Drink some hot peppermint tea by steeping one teabag in eight ounces of hot water for five minutes; if symptoms persist, repeat as necessary up to four or five times a day.

How It Helps:

• The menthol in peppermint relaxes stomach muscles, easing digestive discomfort and reducing queasiness.
• Drinking peppermint tea can also soothe the digestive tract, alleviating symptoms of indigestion and bloating; providing a gentle and effective way to ease nausea and stomach upset.

Health and Safety:

• Drinking peppermint tea is safe for most people except those who are allergic to it or have gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). In some individuals, it can actually trigger or worsen bouts of heartburn; ask a doctor before trying out this home remedy.

How To Ease a Stomach Upset With Apple Cider Vinegar

Sip on some raw (unpasteurised) apple cider vinegar by diluting one tablespoon with eight ounces of water; repeat one more time about an hour later if necessary.

How It Helps:

• Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is made by fermenting apples and yeast, and it’s this process that creates acetic acid, which can kill harmful bacteria.
• The fermentation produces some natural, beneficial probiotic bacteria, which can aid with gut health and digestive discomfort.
• Raw ACV is recommended for medicinal use as it hasn’t gone through the pasteurisation process that kills off some of the bad—but also the good—bacteria. 

Health and Safety:

• While generally safe to consume in small, diluted amounts for most people, check with a doctor first if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have gastrointestinal issues, diabetes, kidney problems, or tooth enamel issues.
• Get advice from a medical professional if you take medications like diuretics, laxatives, or insulin.
• Consult a pediatrician before giving this to children.
• Even diluted ACV solutions like this can erode tooth enamel and irritate your oesophagus, so exercise caution.
• If the strong, acidic taste is offputting, add a dash of honey (if appropriate) to improve the flavour.
• Adults should not exceed two tablespoons of ACV a day.

How To Deal With Diarrhea Using BRAT

While symptoms last, follow a bland, low-fibre but high-starch diet by eating bananas, plain rice, applesauce, and plain toast.

How It Helps:

• The BRAT diet has binding properties that can help firm up stools, provide essential nutrients, and promote gentle digestion.

Health and Safety:

• BRAT is a temporary dietary regimen; it’s unhealthy for anyone to be on this long-term as it lacks essential nutrients.
• It’s recommended to do this for a few days to aid healing from the effects of diarrhea. When symptoms have passed, normal nutritional intake should resume.
• If you have allergies to any of the foods, find suitable alternatives.
• Ask your doctor before trying this diet if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or live with a chronic illness.

How To Deal With Diarrhea Using Chamomile

Drink a cup of hot chamomile tea by steeping one teabag in eight ounces of hot water for five minutes; if symptoms persist, repeat as necessary up to three times a day.

How It Helps:

• Chamomile tea has calming and anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe the digestive tract and reduce intestinal inflammation and cramping.
• It contains compounds that may help regulate bowel movements and alleviate gastrointestinal discomfort. Additionally, its mild astringent properties can help firm up loose stools.

Health and Safety:

• Chamomile tea is generally considered safe for people of all ages, but it should be enjoyed in moderation (no more than three cups a day).
• Some individuals may experience allergic reactions, particularly those who are sensitive to plants in the Asteraceae family (asters, daisies, chrysanthemums, or ragweed). In rare cases, a chamomile allergy can trigger asthma in susceptible individuals; it’s advisable to exercise caution and monitor your body’s response during consumption.
• Check with a medical professional if you are pregnant, as its anti-inflammatory agents may not be safe. This also applies to people taking birth control pills, sedatives, blood thinners, or medications for blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol.

How To Relieve Constipation With Prunes

Eat three to five prunes daily while experiencing constipation, gradually increasing this amount based on your body’s response until you get relief.

How It Helps:

• Due to their concentrated, high fibre and presence of sorbitol (a natural sugar with laxative properties), eating prunes is an effective way to move constipation on.
• The soluble and insoluble fibre they contain helps soften stools, promotes bowel movements, and improves digestive regularity.

Health and Safety:

• Eating too many prunes may cause the opposite issue—diarrhea, so do not exceed eating about eight of them per day.
• Diabetics and those with gastrointestinal disorders, chronic kidney disease, or sensitivities to ingesting polyalcohol sugars (like sorbitol) should get their doctor’s approval; eating prunes can trigger or exacerbate issues.

How To Relieve Constipation With Coffee

In whatever way you like making it, drink a cup of strong, black coffee.

How It Helps:

• Due to its caffeine and acid content, strong coffee can ease constipation as it stimulates the hormone gastrin. This causes involuntary muscle contractions in the digestive tract, encouraging bowel movements.
• Coffee basically acts as a natural laxative and can speed things up a lot, sometimes very quickly (be near a restroom, just in case). 

Health and Safety:

• Pregnant people and children under the age of 12 should not drink caffeinated beverages, as it can cause some health issues (including increased heart rate and blood pressure).
• Adolescents 12–18 years old should not exceed 100 milligrams of caffeine per day.
• People with anxiety disorders, gastrointestinal conditions, heart conditions, sleep problems, or those taking stimulants, antidepressants, and some antibiotics should seek medical advice before consuming coffee and other caffeinated drinks.

How To Take the Edge Off Period Cramps With Raspberry Leaf Tea

Drink raspberry leaf tea by steeping one teabag in eight ounces of hot water for five minutes. Do this daily the week before menstruation, and continue throughout the bleeding phase.

How It Helps:

• Due to its anti-inflammatory tannins, flavonoids and fragarine (a naturally occurring polyphenol), raspberry leaf tea has properties that can work to relax the uterine muscles that cause the spasms common with period cramps.
• Drinking it leading up to menstruation and while experiencing bleeding may reduce the intensity and duration of menstrual cramps by promoting smoother muscle contractions and easing discomfort.

Health and Safety:

• Generally considered safe for most people, raspberry leaf tea can be enjoyed in moderation (no more than two to three cups daily).
• Some people should consult a doctor before introducing this drink, including: anyone who has allergies to plants in the Rosaceae family; those who are pregnant or breastfeeding; people with hormone-sensitive conditions (breast cancer, endometriosis, uterine fibroids, etc.); kidney stones and gastrointestinal issues; low blood pressure; and low blood glucose (especially among insulin-dependent diabetics).

How To Take the Edge Off Period Cramps With Heat Therapy

Place a heating pad or hot compress on the lower abdomen for 15 to 20 minutes, making sure to take a break between each session; repeat as necessary.

How It Helps:

• Applying heat relieves period cramps by increasing blood flow to the abdomen, which relaxes uterine muscles and reduces the intensity of cramps. This enhanced circulation delivers more oxygen and nutrients to the affected area, which reduces pain and discomfort.
• Heat also interrupts pain signals sent to the brain, providing immediate relief and promoting muscle relaxation.

Health and Safety:

• To avoid burns, heating pads should be set to low or medium, and hot compresses should be comfortably warm rather than too hot.
• Both methods should make use of a cloth barrier to prevent direct contact with the skin to limit any irritation.
• Do not fall asleep using any type of heat therapy as this may increase the risk of burns. Other precautions to take can be found here.
• Children should be supervised by an adult and monitored for any signs of discomfort.
• Check with a medical professional if you have: sensitivities or conditions of the skin; impaired sensation, circulation, or neuropathy; cardiovascular conditions; or any other underlying health issues that may make it unsafe to use.

How To Prevent a Urinary Tract Infection With Cranberry Juice

Drink fresh, unsweetened cranberry juice; aim for eight to ten ounces per day.

How It Helps:

• If you are prone to UTIs, drinking cranberry juice will not be useful while you have one, but once the infection is gone, it can help reduce their frequency and intensity.
• Cranberries contain high amounts of compounds called proanthocyanidins, which prevent bacteria like E. coli from adhering to the urinary tract walls.

Health and Safety:

• While generally considered safe for most people, fresh, unsweetened cranberry juice may be problematic for individuals with a history of kidney stones, urinary oxalate stones, and gastrointestinal issues. In these circumstances, always consult a doctor for guidance.
• Those using blood-thinning medications or anyone allergic to anything within the Ericaceae family should also seek medical advice before consumption.

How To Prevent a Urinary Tract Infection With Citrus Fruit

Make sure one to two portions of your daily fruit and vegetable intake are citrus fruits rich in vitamin C.

How It Helps:

• Common citrus fruits to eat and enjoy are oranges, grapefruit, mandarins, tangerines, and clementines. All of them are rich in vitamin C, which helps acidify urine, creating an environment less favourable for bacterial growth in the urinary tract.
• The high fluid content of citrus fruits promotes hydration, which flushes out bacteria and reduces the risk of UTIs.

Health and Safety:

• Like cranberry juice, eating citrus fruits will not help while you have a UTI (they can actually cause bladder irritation and should be avoided during this time); but once the infection has cleared up, eating them can reduce UTI reoccurrence.
• As citrus fruits tend to be quite acidic, caution and medical advice should be sought if you have: gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD); oral ulcers; kidney stones; irritable bowel syndrome (IBS); or are taking statins and antihistamines. Additionally, do not consume anything you are allergic to.

How To Ease Experiencing Heartburn With Your Bed

Sleep in a more upright position by using bed risers to elevate the head of your bed by six to eight inches.

How It Helps:

• The symptoms of acid reflux often feel worse or are more noticeable when lying down. Raising the head of your bed can help prevent stomach acid from flowing back into the oesophagus, reducing symptoms of heartburn and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
• This elevation helps gravity keep acid down, minimising discomfort and allowing for better sleep quality without reflux episodes.

Health and Safety:

• Elevating a bed should be done with the right products, and if you do a quick search online for bed raisers for acid reflux, you will likely find a range of items.
• From wedge pillows and angled mattress toppers to special blocks that go under your bed’s legs, you can find something that suits your needs.
• Obviously, when installing products that raise the head of your bed, follow all health and safety instructions to make sure it’s done right and no injury or discomfort is being caused.

How To Ease Experiencing Heartburn by Chewing Gum

Chew on some sugar-free gum when symptoms start; repeat as necessary two to three times a day.

How It Helps:

• Chewing gum stimulates saliva production, which helps neutralise stomach acid and washes it away from the oesophagus, providing some relief from the symptoms and discomfort of heartburn. 

Health and Safety:

• This will not work for everyone, and in some people it will actually exacerbate acid reflux symptoms; if they worsen, stop chewing the gum immediately.
• People who may want to avoid using this home remedy include anyone with jaw and dental problems, jaw or facial pain, temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD), and digestive disorders.
• Children over three years old who can safely chew and swallow without risk of choking can try this.
• Adults should supervise young children while chewing gum to ensure they do not choke or encounter any other issues.
• Sugar-free gum is the better option for overall physical and dental health; however, it should only be used in moderation as the sugar alternatives can have a laxative effect. Aim for no more than three portions daily.

How To Treat Toenail Fungus With Vicks VapoRub

Apply a small amount of Vicks VapoRub to the affected toenail at least once a day.

How It Helps:

• Vicks VapoRub, renowned for its cold-relief properties, may also combat toenail fungus. Its active ingredients, like menthol and eucalyptus oil, possess antifungal properties that could inhibit fungal growth.
• Although studies on this are limited and currently only anecdotal evidence supports its efficacy, it offers a way to possibly improve the issue until you can see a doctor (which you must always do, especially in severe cases).

Health and Safety:

• This is for mild to moderate toenail fungus.
• Vicks VapoRub should not be used on children under two years old.
• After applying any amount, always wash your hands immediately so as not to ingest it, as doing so can cause serious bouts of nausea, vomiting, and even seizures. Washing your hands also makes sure you are not transferring it to sensitive areas like your eyes, ears, or nose. 
• Contact with the skin can cause redness, irritation, and, on rare occasions, even thermal and chemical burns. 
• Vicks VapoRub is highly flammable, so stay away from anything that could ignite it. 
• Check with a medical professional to make sure it’s safe to use if you have: skin sensitivities; allergies to any of its ingredients; respiratory conditions; or are pregnant and breastfeeding. 

How To Treat Toenail Fungus With Mouthwash

Soak the foot that has toenail fungus in a 1:1 mixture of Listerine mouthwash and warm water (make sure there’s enough of the mixture to cover your foot). Do this daily for 45 to 60 minutes until the fungus improves, or you can get to a doctor. 

How It Helps:

• Mouthwashes with ingredients like methyl salicylate, menthol, thymol, and eucalyptol possess antifungal properties, which could potentially limit further fungal growth. 
• The antiseptic nature of Listerine may help to reduce the number of fungal spores on the skin and nails, potentially aiding in the treatment of toenail fungus over time.

Health and Safety:

• Do not use a Listerine foot soak if you have: very sensitive skin; open wounds, cuts, sores, blisters; or dry skin that has cracked, as this will cause discomfort, irritation, and even infection.
• Avoid this treatment altogether if you have allergies or medical restrictions on the use of aspirin or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), as methyl salicylate is chemically similar to them.
• Do not use on very young children, as products containing salicylates can cause a rare but very serious illness called Reyes Syndrome. To be safe, before using it on children of any age, ask your paediatrician for guidance and advice. 
• Stop using it immediately if you experience any adverse reactions.

How To Get Rid of Head Lice With Olive Oil

Thoroughly coat the hair and scalp with olive oil, ensuring all strands are enveloped. Wear a towel or shower cap over your hair for at least eight hours (or overnight), as lice can hold their breath when smothered for that long. After this time, use a fine-toothed nit comb to remove the eggs and lice. Shampoo the hair thoroughly to get rid of the olive oil and any remaining unwelcome critters; repeat as necessary.

How It Helps:

• Olive oil is effective at removing head lice due to its smothering properties.
• When applied to the hair and scalp, the oil creates an environment that suffocates adult lice while also making it difficult for eggs to adhere to the hair shafts.
• The viscosity of olive oil helps to loosen lice and eggs, making them easier to comb out.

Health and Safety:

• If using this treatment overnight, keep your head covered, and place towels over your pillows to prevent oil getting on them.
• Olive oil can be challenging to wash out of hair, requiring multiple shampooings. Residue may remain, leading to greasy hair or scalp if not thoroughly removed. If you are dandruff-prone or naturally have an oily scalp, using olive oil may make those issues worse.
• Do not use if you are allergic or sensitive to olives or oil; monitor for adverse reactions and stop treatment if skin or scalp irritation occurs. 

How To Get Rid of Head Lice With Wet Combing

On clean, detangled, wet, but towel-dried hair, apply a generous amount of conditioner and then use a fine-toothed nit comb to work through small sections—do this several times. Wipe off the comb each time onto a tissue to check for eggs and lice, then discard. Continue combing each section of hair until you have covered the entire head, rinsing after you have finished. Repeat as necessary.

How It Helps:

• The conditioner helps immobilise the lice, making them easier to comb out, while also detangling the hair for smoother combing.
• By systematically combing through each section of damp hair with a fine-toothed nit comb, this method physically removes lice and nits.
• Regular sessions can gradually eradicate infestations without the use of toxic chemical treatments, making it a safe and gentle option for all ages.

Health and Safety:

• Wet combing can be time-consuming and will probably require multiple applications; it does not kill head lice or their eggs, but rather makes it easier to remove them.
• As you are using your own conditioner, it likely eliminates concerns over skin irritation or allergic reactions; however, you should stop immediately if any issues arise.
• Avoid scalp soreness by using the nit comb gently.
• Using a nit comb on curly or Afro-textured hair may cause breakage; consider other treatments if this is a concern.

In Summary

While we should always approach home remedies with caution and make sure they are safe and suitable for use, many of them are a treasure trove of wisdom passed down through generations.  Finding natural and cost-effective solutions for common health issues encourages a holistic understanding of personal health. 

Of course, there are no guaranteed cures when using home remedies, but they can at least offer some respite from common ailments and ease symptoms, making them more manageable. We often do not realise that there are a whole host of things in our homes that can be made use of in this way. If we cannot immediately get to a pharmacy or doctor, home remedies may just help us out until we are able to.

What is your go-to home remedy? Have you tried any of these home remedies before; did they work for you?

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Further Info:

A Guide to Common Medicinal Herbs – University of Rochester Medical Center

Food as Medicine: Does What You Eat Influence Your Health? – Healthline