For as long as I can remember, grandmas have had their own set of remedies for just about everything. These cures, passed down through generations, often felt more like magic than medicine, but as it turns out, Grandma was onto something. What once seemed like old wives’ tales are now being supported by modern science.
From the honey she gave us for sore throats to the calming chamomile tea before bed, it turns out these age-old practices have some real backing. Here’s a look at a few remedies Grandma swore by that science is finally catching up to!
1. Honey for Sore Throats
Your grandma might have given you a spoonful of honey to ease a sore throat, and now science agrees. Honey is rich in antioxidants and has antimicrobial properties, making it great for soothing irritation. Studies show it can even be more effective than cough syrup in reducing nighttime coughing in kids.
2. Garlic to Boost Immunity
Garlic was often recommended to ward off colds and infections, and for good reason! Modern research shows that garlic contains compounds like allicin, which have antibacterial and antiviral effects. Regular consumption may strengthen the immune system and help fight off illnesses.
3. Peppermint for Indigestion
Peppermint tea is a classic remedy for upset stomachs and indigestion, and science backs this one up too. Peppermint oil can relax the muscles in the digestive tract, helping to relieve symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and bloating.
4. Ginger for Nausea
Ginger has long been used to relieve nausea and motion sickness. Research confirms that ginger can be as effective as some over-the-counter medicines for nausea caused by pregnancy, chemotherapy, or surgery. Its anti-inflammatory properties make it a great natural remedy.
5. Chamomile for Better Sleep
If your grandma ever made you a cup of chamomile tea to help you sleep, she was onto something. Chamomile contains an antioxidant called apigenin, which binds to receptors in your brain that promote sleepiness and reduce insomnia.
6. Turmeric for Inflammation
Turmeric, a staple in many grandma’s kitchens, has been used as an anti-inflammatory remedy for centuries. Its active compound, curcumin, is now known to have strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Studies show it may help with arthritis, heart disease, and even depression.
7. Salt Water Gargles for Sore Throats
A simple saltwater gargle was a go-to remedy for sore throats, and it turns out this advice holds up. Saltwater helps reduce swelling, loosen mucus, and flush out bacteria, making it a great first line of defense against throat infections.
8. Aloe Vera for Burns
Grandma probably kept an aloe vera plant on her windowsill, ready to break off a leaf to soothe burns. Science confirms that aloe vera is effective at promoting wound healing and reducing inflammation in minor burns and cuts.
9. Apple Cider Vinegar for Digestive Issues
Apple cider vinegar has been touted as a cure for many ailments, but its benefits for digestion are particularly well-supported. Research shows that apple cider vinegar can improve gut health by balancing stomach acid levels and aiding in digestion.
10. Epsom Salt Baths for Sore Muscles
Soaking in an Epsom salt bath was grandma’s way to ease muscle aches, and there’s science to support this. Epsom salts contain magnesium, which can be absorbed through the skin, helping to relax muscles, reduce inflammation, and relieve tension.
11. Baking Soda for Heartburn
Baking soda was often recommended for heartburn because it neutralizes stomach acid. Today, we know that this natural antacid can indeed provide fast relief for occasional heartburn by balancing the pH in your stomach.
12. Cranberry Juice for Urinary Tract Infections
Cranberry juice has long been used as a natural remedy for UTIs, and research shows it can prevent certain bacteria from sticking to the walls of the bladder, reducing the chance of infection. While it may not cure an existing UTI, it’s a helpful preventative measure.
13. Prunes for Constipation
Prunes have been used for centuries to ease constipation, and they really do work. Prunes are high in fiber and sorbitol, a natural sugar alcohol that helps stimulate digestion and promote bowel movements.
14. Oatmeal for Skin Irritations
Grandma knew that an oatmeal bath could soothe itchy, irritated skin. Oatmeal has anti-inflammatory properties that can calm conditions like eczema, sunburn, and poison ivy. It creates a protective barrier that helps the skin retain moisture.
15. Mustard Plasters for Chest Congestion
While mustard plasters might sound strange, this old remedy for chest congestion actually works. The heat and pungency of mustard can improve circulation and help break up mucus. Today, it’s recognized as a safe and effective treatment for respiratory issues.
16. Cinnamon for Blood Sugar Control
Cinnamon has been used to help control blood sugar levels, and modern studies show it can help lower blood sugar by mimicking insulin and increasing glucose transport into cells. This makes it a potential natural aid for people with type 2 diabetes.
17. Cloves for Toothaches
Cloves have been used to relieve toothaches due to their numbing and antibacterial effects. Scientific research now supports the use of clove oil for dental pain, as it contains eugenol, a natural anesthetic that can reduce inflammation and kill bacteria.
18. Lemon Balm for Anxiety Relief
If your grandma ever gave you lemon balm tea to calm your nerves, she knew what she was doing. This fragrant herb has been used for centuries to reduce stress and anxiety. Recent studies have shown that lemon balm increases the availability of GABA, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood, leading to a soothing and calming effect. Science now backs what grandma always believed—that lemon balm can help ease anxiety and promote relaxation.
18 Everyday Things Amish Women Aren’t Allowed to Do
The Amish culture is known for its simple way of life and adherence to traditional values. While this lifestyle may seem appealing to some, there are certain restrictions that Amish women face that most modern women do not. Take a look at these things that we take for granted that are off-limits to Amish women.
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Ellen has been obsessed with logic puzzles, jigsaws, and cryptograms since she was a kid. After learning she was taught how to play chess wrong by a family friend (so they could win), she joined her school chess club and the rest is history.
