I read with interest Dineshbhai’s excellent letter “Red Itchy Eyes” in last week’s AV. It falls in “Letters that Matters category” So often simple home remedies work wonders when applied to minor seasonal ailments like hay fevers, upset tummies, sore throats and headaches. In this country, most elderly people, especially those with low immunity suffer from such seasonal illnesses.
When we were in Africa, we never used to go to family doctors (GPs) for minor illnesses, as our parents were knowledgeable in treating such ailments with home remedies. This heirloom wisdom was passed on from generation to generation. But here we are having interlude between generations! Moreover we had to pay for every visit to consult doctors.
But here we are accustomed to visiting GPs more often than in the developing world, having taken to heart the slogan “Medical treatment is free at the point of delivery.” In sharp contrast, most of us may not visit our dentists routinely. Dentists are obliged to send us reminders that a visit is now due, as it normally costs at least £50 for every visit, except to those who are on means tested benefits.
Cold water always works wonders when applied to itching, dry eyes, so do eye drops, especially for dry eyes. But as tape water contains tiny amount of chlorine, our GPs so often advise us to splash water on closed eyes or use bottled water. But it is fine for most of us.
Another wonderful home remedy is the use of turmeric powder which contains antibiotics qualities. It works wonders on cuts and bruises, cold and sore throats, especially if taken with honey. Practically every spice we use, like cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger and many more have healing qualities. Readers should share their experiences on home remedies with us, although GS/AV so often covers these remedies in their Good Health section.
Kumudini Valambia
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