Do Home Remedies Really Work? A Science-Based Look

There are so many advertisements and articles on home remedies.  You may have heard about soothing a sore throat with honey or how peppermint oil may help headaches.  But what does science say about home remedies?  Which ones truly work?  In this blog post, we’ll explore some popular natural remedies and separate the science-backed solutions from the myths.  Before trying any home remedies, check with your health care provider.  Some home remedies can affect how prescription drugs and over-the counter medications work.    

🌿 Home Remedies That Actually Work

🍯 1. Honey for Coughs (1)

·         Acts as a natural cough suppressant.

·         Especially helpful for children over age 1. (DO NOT give honey to an infant younger than 1 year of age.) 

·         May work as well as OTC cough syrups.

·         MYTH:  Studies don’t back up “local” honey helping with allergies. 

🌱 2. Peppermint Oil for Headaches & IBS (2)

·         Might relieve tension headaches when applied to the temples.

·         May help reduce symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

·         MYTH: NIH notes peppermint leaf has not been shown yet to help with any health condition. 

🧄 3. Garlic for Immunity & Heart Health (3)

·         May lower blood pressure and cholesterol but not by much.

·         Some studies link garlic consumption to reduced cancer risk.

🫚 4. Ginger for Nausea & Menstrual Cramps (3)

·         Antibacterial power may reduce gum disease and gum infection. (4)

·         Can help to ease nausea from motion sickness, pregnancy, and chemotherapy. (5)

·         May help reduce menstrual pain, muscle soreness. (4)

·         Ginger is anti-inflammatory and may help reduce swelling and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.  (4)

🧂 5. Warm Saltwater Gargle for Sore Throat

·         May provide some temporary relief by reducing pain and inflammation and help kill some bacteria and viruses. (5)

·         Simple and effective for mild throat irritation.

🍵 6. Green Tea for Antioxidants (See:  Teatime for a Healthier You) (6)

·         Rich in antioxidants including polyphenols and catechins that protect cells and may lower one’s risk of some cancers: skin, breast, lung and colon. 

·         Supports mental alertness, lowers risk of memory loss.

·         May lower cholesterol levels and reduce risk of heart disease and stroke.

·         May strengthen bones and “can protect against osteoporosis and broken bones”.

·         MYTH: Green tea doesn’t cure diseases or detoxifies the body.  Green tea is not caffeine free, but you can buy decaffeinated green tea. (9)     

🌾 7. Oatmeal Baths for Skin Irritation (8)

·         Colloidal oatmeal reduces itching and inflammation. (Not the oatmeal you eat for breakfast.) 

·         Soothes eczema, rashes, and dry skin.

·         Colloidal oatmeal reduces itching and inflammation.

🟡 8. Turmeric for Inflammation (4) (7) (See: Anti-inflammatory foods)

·         Contains curcumin, which may help with osteoarthritis pain. 

·         Best absorbed when paired with black pepper. Note:  turmeric can lessen the effects of some drugs such as ibuprofen, aspirin or acetaminophen. Talk to your doctor if you receive chemotherapy.    

·         MYTH: Claims of helping skin rash after radiation or healing ulcers aren’t supported by research. 

🔍 Final Thoughts: What Science Says About Home Remedies

While home remedies have been passed down through generations and often come with glowing anecdotes, science offers a more measured perspective. Some natural treatments—like honey for coughs, ginger for nausea, and oatmeal baths for irritated skin—have solid research behind them. Others, like turmeric and peppermint oil, show promise but need more rigorous studies to confirm their benefits. And some popular beliefs, like using local honey for allergies or green tea as a detox cure, simply don’t hold up under scientific scrutiny.

The takeaway? Home remedies can be helpful, but they’re not a substitute for medical advice or treatment. Always talk to your healthcare provider before trying a new remedy, especially if you’re taking medications or managing a chronic condition. With the right balance of curiosity and caution, you can explore natural options that complement your health journey.

Image Sources:  Home Remedy