Some of our go-to health items are always stocked up at home for emergencies. But do you know that some of these items can be doubly used for other purposes as well? Read on to find some amazing uses for these items that can save you that urgent trip to the pharmacy.
1. Antacid Tablets
It contains sodium bicarbonate which helps to soothe heartburn by neutralizing the acid content in the stomach.
Antacid formulations containing aspirin have anesthetic properties that help to relieve stings and itching caused by insect bites. Make a paste of a crushed antacid tablet, a pinch of oatmeal (a skin soother), and water and apply it to the affected area. You will notice immediate results.
2. Mouthwash
Mouthwashes (with or without alcohol) contain antimicrobial properties which help to freshen breath.
Alternatively, they can be used to prevent an athlete’s foot. If you have an old bottle of mouthwash lying around, do not throw it away. Just soak a cotton ball in the liquid and apply it between your toenails and to the bottom of your feet after every shower to prevent bacterial infection.
3. Baking Soda
Baking soda is mostly used in cakes, pastries, and biscuits. Some of its other uses are for teeth-whitening as it helps in the removal of plaque embedded between the teeth and gums.
It can also be used to calm irritated skin caused due to sunburns and reduces itching and discomfort caused by other skin conditions, including eczema, prickly heat, and hives caused by poison ivy. Sodium bicarbonate is an alkaline compound that helps neutralize the pH balance in your skin. It creates a buffer that helps subside inflammation on the skin surface and alleviates soreness. Make a paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the affected area. Keep it on for 30 minutes to get maximum relief.
4. Nasal Spray
Nasal sprays are decongestants that help reduce swelling of the mucus membranes and shrink blood vessels making it easier for you to breathe.
Oxymetazoline is the compound found in the nasal sprays which help in stopping nosebleeds. The next time you encounter a nosebleed, tilt your head forward and blow your nose. Although bleeding may increase for a few seconds, this method will help to clear out any existing clots. Next, use the nasal spray in the affected nostril and inhale deeply. Pinch your nose by applying a good amount of pressure for a full 10 minutes. If the bleeding doesn’t stop, continue to pinch for another 10 minutes. The bleeding should stop by then. If it persists, see a doctor.
5. Witch Hazel
Witch hazel is primarily used to treat acne. It works by drying out excess oil in the skin and kills the infection-causing bacteria responsible for breakouts.
The astringent property of witch hazel makes it ideal for treating hemorrhoids. It is present in many hemorrhoid wipes and medicated pads. Just make sure to apply some moisturizing cream like Vaseline post its use.
6. Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera has a soothing effect and is mostly used to treat first- and second-degree burns.
Recent research has stated that Aloe Vera contains vitamins as well as amino acids that help repair damaged tissues. It contains compounds that decrease inflammation and control pain. In fact, a study found that canker sores healed about 50% faster when aloe vera was used as a topical application.
7. Tea Tree Oil
Tea tree oil is used in the treatment of acne and athlete’s foot since it has antifungal and antibacterial properties.
A research study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology has found that people who used a shampoo with 5% tea tree oil found a reduction in dandruff by 41%. Also, it significantly decreased the itchiness and greasiness of the scalp. If your present shampoo lacks tea tree oil, you can purchase it separately and add a small amount. Make sure you add no more than a few teaspoons per bottle because more quantity can lead to over-drying of the scalp.
8. Yogurt
Who doesn’t love yogurt? It is rich in calcium, is delicious, and creamy. It also helps cool the digestive system and relieves indigestion and diarrhea. Also, the probiotic bacteria help foster healthy digestion and regular bowel movements.
A study conducted by Kyushu University in Japan found that adults who consumed at least 55 g of yogurt per day were found to have fewer symptoms of periodontal disease than those who didn’t include it in their diets. This is because the lactic acid in the yogurt helps protect the gums from harmful bacteria responsible for this chronic condition.
9. Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
Not only does extra-virgin olive oil lend a delicious taste to your salads and dips, it helps lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and increases good cholesterol (HDL). It also keeps belly fat in check.
Studies have now proven that omega-3 fatty acids present in olive oil help prevent age-related macular degeneration. It was found that people who consumed at least 100 ml (approximately 7 tablespoons) of olive oil per week were about half as likely to develop the condition as those who consumed less than 1 ml per week
10. Dark Chocolate
This delicious treat is good for the heart too. A few ounces per week help to significantly lower the risk of developing CVD (cardiovascular disease). What’s more, it satisfies your sweet tooth without making you feel guilty.
According to a study published in the Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology, it has now been concluded that dark chocolate helps protect the skin from harmful ultraviolet radiation. Researchers claim that consuming minimally processed versions of rich, dark chocolate abundant in flavonoids and antioxidants could actually prevent wrinkles and lower the risk of skin cancer.
