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In recent years, there has been a trend away from overly processed foods, and a movement toward more organic and natural options. The trend has also led many to re-examine their health remedies. Is there something in the idea that chicken soup is good for you if you are sick? Can ginger calm your upset stomach or cure a headache? Here are 5 natural health remedies that may improve your well-being.

1. Chicken Soup

Back in the 12th century, an Egyptian (and Jewish) physician, Moshe ben Mainmon, recommended chicken soup as a remedy for the symptoms associated with colds. Through the years, chicken soup has sometimes been referred to as the “Jewish penicillin.” Grandmothers and mothers, no matter their ethnicity or religion, have been prescribing chicken soup for cold and flu symptoms over the hundreds of years since.

More recently, science has found that there are reasons that chicken soup has stood the test of time: It really does help ease cold and flu symptoms. The chicken in the soup releases an anti-inflammatory amino acid during the cooking process. The liquid in the soup hydrates the body, and the heat from the soup helps to loosen congestion. And, common chicken soup spices like garlic and pepper, have been used since ancient times to help thin mucus to ease breathing.

Even some canned, store bought, chicken soups can be effective. But if you want a healthier option, you can make it at home. Make a big batch, and freeze it in single-serving portions; the soup will keep for a few of months, and you can easily reheat it as needed.

2. Ginger

For thousands of years ginger, which comes from the underground stem of the Zingiber officinale plant, has been used to treat a number of ailments, and to enhance general health. It has been used in some of the oldest cultures, including those in Asia, India and the Middle East. Even today, health care professionals recognize that ginger can help some of the symptoms associated with upset stomach brought on by pregnancy, menstruation, motion sickness and nausea brought on by chemotherapy. Ginger can also help reduce inflammation, which can help reduce some symptoms associated with muscle pain, osteoarthritis, and even headaches. Ginger should not be given to children under the age of two.

3. Honey (and Lemon)

Honey has long been considered useful and even sacred. Ancient cultures, from Egypt to Greece, used honey in a variety of ways to sweeten food, soothe health concerns and even help the dead on their journey. The prophet Muhammad recommended honey for healing purposes. Today, a recent study asserts that honey may actually work better than cough medicine. Combine one tablespoon of honey with one tablespoon of lemon juice and microwave for 20 seconds until it is warm — but not hot. Honey mixed in teas can help further soothe a sore throat. Just realize that honey should not be given to children under the age of one.

4. Cayenne Pepper

For hundreds of years, cayenne pepper has been used by various cultures for its medicinal properties, including, some scholars think, in the Mayan and Aztec civilizations. One of the things that modern science has discovered about cayenne pepper is that it actually helps encourage blood clotting. You can use cayenne pepper with good results on nose bleeds. After holding the nose closed for several minutes, use a q-tip to dab cayenne pepper up the nose to help stop the flow. Cayenne pepper contains capsacin, which has been tested and found to help reduce feelings of pain, and it is also currently being explored for its usefulness in fighting some types of cancer, as well as helping with some heart conditions.

5. Chamomile

You are probably familiar with the idea of using a tea made from chamomile to help with some ailments. Ancient Egyptians thought chamomile, with its benefits, was a gift from the sun god. Greeks and Romans used it extensively as well. Chamomile has a calming effect, and can help you with sleep problems and mild anxiety issues. Additionally, some of the naturally occurring chemicals in chamomile might be able to aid your digestive health. However, it is important not to get too carried away with the health claims made for chamomile. While doctors say chamomile tea can help with colicky babies, and help soothe you, claims that chamomile can help with heart problems, serious digestive issues and other health concerns, have not been substantiated.

Before you begin any mode of treatment, it is a good idea to consult your health care provider, and make sure that you are using correct dosages, and following correct usages. Even natural remedies can be harmful if used in the wrong way.

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