Natural remedies have been used for thousands of years to treat a wide variety of ailments. Many are effective to some degree and worth considering. If you are interested in a substitute for medications you would rather not be taking, here are a few options for several common conditions.
Zinc
A growing body of evidence is pointing to the power of the mineral zinc to reduce the severity and duration of common cold symptoms. It is most effective when taken as soon as you start experiencing symptoms. When applied topically, it is effective in treating rashes and skin irritation. It also helps heal wounds and supports growth. Zinc is worth keeping around if you commonly find yourself coming down with any of these conditions.
Honey
Honey is an excellent natural substitute for allergy medications because it can slowly build up your immunity to any pollen allergy over time to the point where you might not experience significant symptoms at all. This only works if you get local honey, created by bees using the allergens in your area. Even non-local honey is helpful against allergies because it works to soothe a sore throat and reduce irritating inflammation.
Sulfur
Needed in the body to synthesize key proteins, sulfur is another substance that can be used as a natural alternative to several medications. Organic sulfur crystals contain methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) and serve to raise your sulfur levels to combat allergy symptoms, particularly lower respiratory problems. Sulfur is also approved by the FDA for over-the-counter use in products to alleviate dandruff.
Garlic
Garlic has been used for a long time to fight infections, and scientific evidence is beginning to show that it does indeed have antibacterial properties. The key substance found in garlic that gives it its health benefits is called allicin, which is strongest when the garlic is fresh. Garlic has a wide range of uses from boosting the immune system against the common cold to aiding against infection. Be careful not to use too much as it can cause an upset stomach or even internal bleeding. It also doesn’t pair well with blood thinners.
Although you should always listen to the advice of medical professionals, sometimes natural alternatives or substitutions of medications may be a good option for improving your health. Depending on the conditions afflicting you, any number of remedies may help. Try different approaches and see which work for you.