Spice-rack remedies
Spice-rack remedies: ease cold symptoms, fix hot flashes, and
prevent food poisoning and other ailments by reaching into your
kitchen spice rack. These common spices are more than mere flavor
enhancers; they're also effective home remedies
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CAYENNE
Got a toothache? Capsaicin, an ingredient in cayenne, interferes
with pain transmission. Make a paste with a few drops of water and
a spoonful of cayenne, dip a cotton swab into the paste, and dab
on the tooth (not the gum).
CINNAMON
A bit of this aromatic spice can help ease diarrhea, dry up the
sniffles, and control heavy menstrual bleeding. And for people with
type-2 diabetes, just 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon a day, added to food
or drinks, can lower blood glucose levels up to 2Q percent, studies
show. For sniffles and diarrhea, make a tea by adding 1 teaspoon
of cinnamon to 1 cup of boiling water. Let it steep for 1.5 minutes,
strain out the cinnamon through a coffee filter, and drink.
GINGER
This powdered root relieves morning sickness and is as effective
as over-the-counter drugs for motion sickness. It also kills some
of the bacteria that causes food poisoning. In fact, it's good for
most any form of upset stomach. Make a tea by adding 1 teaspoon
of powder to a cup of boiling water. Steep for 10 minutes, strain,
and drink.
SAGE
Reduce menopausal hot flashes and night sweats by drinking a cup
of sage tea three times a day: Add 1/2 teaspoon sage to 1 cup boiling
water, steep 10 minutes, then strain and drink.
THYME
Rich in germ-killing compounds, thyme has a long history as an expectorant
and antiseptic. Gargle several times a day with a strong thyme tea
to heal a sore throat; drink it to ease coughs from colds or bronchitis.
For an effective cough remedy, use 1 teaspoon dried thyme to 1 cup
boiling water, steep for 10 minutes, strain, and drink. Sweeten
to taste with honey or sugar. For sore throats: Brew 2 teaspoons
thyme in 1 cup of boiling water for 10 minutes. Gargle, then spit.
COPYRIGHT 2005 Meredith Corporation