Explore Proven Home Remedies Backed by Science

Chances are you’ve used a home remedy at some point: herbal teas for a cold, essential oils to dull a headache, plant-based supplements for a better night’s sleep. Maybe it was your grandma or you read about it online. The point is, you tried it, and perhaps now you’re thinking, “Should I try it again?”

It’s not clear exactly what makes a home remedy do the trick. Is it an actual physiological change in the body or more of a placebo effect? Thankfully in recent decades, scientists have been asking the same questions in a lab and are finding that some of our plant-based remedies aren’t just old wives’ tales.

And so for the skeptic who needs more than a placebo to feel well, we got your back. Here are the home remedies backed by science:

Peppermint for Digestion and Muscle Pain

Peppermint is common as it sounds, but depending on the type, it can provide different uses and benefits. For pain, you’ll want to look for wintergreen, which has methyl salicylate a compound that may work similarly to capsaicin. Applying it can feel like a cool “burn” before the numbing effect takes place. This effect helps with joint and muscle pain.

The other mint type that’s commonly used in folk medicine is peppermint. An ingredient in many different cures, peppermint has been found to be especially effective in helping treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms. Studies show that peppermint activates an anti-pain channel in the colon, which reduces inflammatory pain in the digestive tract. This most likely accounts for its effectiveness in treating IBS.

Beyond digestion and stomach troubles, a peppermint oil capsule or tea can provide relief.

Turmeric for Pain and Inflammation

Who hasn’t heard of turmeric by now? Turmeric has been used primarily in South Asia as a part of Ayurvedic medicine for almost 4,000 years. When it comes to proven medicinal purposes, the golden spice may be best for treating pain, specifically pain associated with inflammation.

Several studies have found that curcumin is responsible for turmeric's “wow” factor. In one study, people with arthritis noted that their pain levels were more reduced after taking 500 mg of curcumin than 50 mg of diclofenac sodium, an anti-inflammatory drug. Other studies back up this pain relief claim, as well, noting that turmeric extract was as effective as ibuprofen for pain management in patients with knee osteoarthritis.

Don’t go grinding turmeric—which stains heavily!—for immediate relief though. The amount of curcumin in turmeric is at most 3 percent, meaning you’re better off taking curcumin supplements for relief. That’s not to say a soothing turmeric latte won’t help. It’s suggested that 2 to 5 grams of the spice may still provide some benefits. Just be sure you add black pepper to boost the absorption.

To get the best results from turmeric, you’d ideally consume 1/2 to 1 1/2 tsp. of turmeric per day for a good four to eight weeks, providing noticeable benefits.

Wintergreen for Muscle Pain

Wintergreen, like peppermint, can be used for muscle pain. The key ingredient is methyl salicylate, which can provide relief by mimicking the numbing effect of capsaicin. The cool “burn” you feel before the numbing effect takes place can provide temporary relief from joint and muscle pain.

Mint, including wintergreen and peppermint, is a versatile ingredient with a variety of uses. From soothing digestive issues to providing temporary relief from aches and pains, mint is a common remedy that can be highly effective when used correctly.

For more information on home remedies and further scientific evidence, you can learn more here.

By understanding the science behind these home remedies, you can make informed decisions about which ones to try for your specific needs and ensure you’re using them effectively. If you’re interested in further insights into how these remedies work, continue reading for more detailed information on each.

Conclusion

Home remedies can be powerful tools for managing common ailments. From peppermint and turmeric to wintergreen, these natural remedies have stood the test of time and scientific scrutiny, providing real benefits for many people. Whether you're tackling pain, inflammation, or digestive issues, these remedies are worth considering for their potential to provide relief and improve your overall well-being.

Stay curious and informed, and always consult with healthcare professionals for personalized advice.