By: Holly Mason
Many common problems associated with colder weather can be easily fixed or managed with cheap, common ingredients. Though these alternative remedies often help, visit your family doctor if the problem persists.
Chapped lips: Sugar scrub: mix two parts sugar to one part honey and olive oil. Scrub lips in a circular motion until the sugar dissolves and wash off with warm water. Avoid licking lips. Cut down on spicy and salty foods. Avoid lip balms with menthol, eucalyptus, and other flavors/fragrances. Most importantly: stay hydrated!
Sore throat: Healing tea: Steep a mild tea such as chamomile with lemon, honey and crushed ginger root. Lemon and honey kill bacteria while ginger will ease the pain. Avoid dairy products; milk coats the throat which causes excess mucus. Chicken soup for the soul: sodium in warm, broth based soups will improve a sore throat. Garlic, apple cider vinegar and mild spices such as cinnamon will help speed healing.
Dry skin: Coconut, olive and jojoba oils are great for moisturizing dry skin. Gently exfoliate with used coffee grounds and a bit of olive oil. Avoid using this mixture on the face, as it is too harsh for ultra delicate skin. Take shorter, cooler showers. Long, boiling hot showers rob the skin of its natural oils.
Winter blues (Seasonal Affective Disorder): Carbohydrate cravings that are common with seasonal depression can be combated with foods high in tryptophan such as turkey, rice, eggs, and milk. Go on a walk or run. Getting aerobic exercise outside will help improve mood. Inhale or make a steam facial with peppermint or lemon essential oil.
Cold sores: Hold an ice cube on the sore for 3-8 minutes. This will help to reduce swelling and redness. Avoid masking the cold sore with make up. If the cold sore comes back, get a new toothbrush. Toothbrushes, as well as other products used on the mouth or lips can harbor the cold sore virus. Soak a cotton ball in milk and apply to the cold sore to relieve pain.
Comentarios