There is a lot of concern today for our over-medicated society, and with good reason. Americans spent $34 billion on over-the-counter remedies in 2016 (more then twice what we spent a decade earlier 😳). In 2013, the CDC announced that there is a "painkiller epidemic among women" with almost one million emergency visits by women for drug abuse and misuse. And our government is even weighing in on the opiod crisis. Yikes!
We all want to feel good, which is normal. But somehow we have lost our way in how to get there. It is our responsibility to do everything we can to take care of our mind and bodies with habits like regular exercise and healthy food. Don't get me wrong, I am super thankful for our physicians and our medical knowledge. But I am even more thankful that we are all learning that nutrition and natural remedies can help as much or more then medicine. 🙌🏻
Here are a few natural remedies you can try for your next ailment:
Headache?
Try Magnesium Glycinate. Low blood levels of magnesium have been linked to headaches and migraines. Magnesium is calming for the nervous system and also supports serotonin production. A 200 to 400 mg tablet is recommended for relief.
Nausea and Motion Sickness?
Try Ginger. Multiple studies confirm ginger can settle an upset stomach. They Mayo Clinic even recommends it for morning sickness. Next time you're feeling nauseated, try drinking ginger tea or grating some fresh ginger into a green smoothie. If you're prone to motion sickness, take some ginger tablets on your next airplane or boat trip.
Constipation?
For an acute problem, try magnesium citrate. Taking 200 to 300 mg before bed will relax your intestines and pull water into them. If the problem is chronic, it's time to find the root cause. Dehydration, food intolerance, lack of fiber, and irregular eating and sleeping patterns can easily mess up your digestive system.
Sore Muscles?
Try Arnica. The arnica flower has been used for hundreds or years for muscle and joint pain, and studies in the US have found it as reliable as NSAIDs at relieving pain from osteoarthritis in the hands. It is available in cream and gel form and considered safe except for an occasional mild rash.
Insomnia?
Try Lavender Oil. Research has found that lavender oil can help induce sleep and also help us sleep more deeply. A few drops can be added to an evening Epsom salt bath or you can sprinkle a drop on a cool light bulb and then turn on. Or get an essential oil diffuser for your bedroom.
These are just a few of the ailments we deal with and natural remedies for them. If yours isn't listed, Google will be happy to help. 😉 Plus, it's always a good idea to check with your physician, especially if you are taking other medications. We want these bodies to feel good as long as we are in them, so let's remember the big picture and take care of them from the inside out!