For centuries, natural food-based home remedies have been a part of cultures worldwide. While many of us see food simply as fuel, it serves purposes far beyond just keeping us alive. From skincare and haircare to treating everyday ailments, some foods are so versatile that you can often find solutions to common problems right in your kitchen.
At Bright Side, we’ve compiled a list of foods that go beyond being just ingredients—they offer a wide range of additional benefits you might not expect.
1. Onion
Placing an onion in your socks before bed might sound unusual, but it’s a simple trick for achieving smooth, soft feet. This method is rooted in the ancient Chinese practice of foot reflexology. Recent studies suggest that onions can help prevent bacterial growth, reduce hard skin buildup, and soften your skin, making this quirky remedy surprisingly effective.
2. Turmeric
Turmeric, a vibrant orange spice, has been celebrated for its healing properties in many cultures and can even be used as a face mask to address acne scarring. Research shows that turmeric contains curcumin, a compound with powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits. A mask made from turmeric, Greek yogurt, and honey can help fade scars and prevent future acne breakouts.
3. Potatoes
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Potatoes are incredibly versatile in the kitchen, but they also have a surprising use: removing rust from iron tools. This is because potatoes contain oxalic acid, which helps break down rust. To try it, simply sprinkle a bit of salt on a potato, rub it over the rusty area, and let the natural cleaning power work its magic.
4. Eggs
Eggs are packed with essential nutrients like vitamin A, vitamin D, and calcium, making them one of the healthiest foods available. If you’re dealing with dry or damaged hair, egg yolks can be a game-changer. Rich in protein, they help strengthen and add shine to your hair, while lecithin, a natural fat found in egg yolks, provides deep moisture. This makes egg yolks an excellent choice for a nourishing hair mask.
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5. Cayenne Pepper
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Feeling extremely sore but only have cayenne pepper in your kitchen? You’re in luck! Cayenne pepper contains capsaicin, a natural ingredient often used in pain-relief medications. You can create your own soothing cream by mixing cayenne pepper with coconut oil for quick, effective pain relief.
6. Eucalyptus
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Eucalyptus, a popular essential oil, is well-known for its healing properties and ability to promote relaxation. One of its lesser-known benefits is its effectiveness in relieving body pain. Studies have shown that eucalyptus can help ease muscle aches and even aid with cold symptoms, making it a versatile remedy for discomfort.
7. Garlic
Garlic is a widely popular food item, and for good reason. Not only does it elevate the flavor of any dish, but it also has natural antifungal properties that make it effective in treating athlete’s foot. Simply adding garlic to a foot bath or applying it directly to the affected area can help soothe itchy feet with ease.
8. Cinnamon
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Dealing with annoying mosquito bites and need quick pain relief? Cinnamon, a magical spice packed with antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, can help. It’s effective not only for mosquito bites but also for stings from bees, wasps, and spiders. Simply mix cinnamon with water to create a paste, apply it to the affected area, and enjoy instant relief.
9. Salt
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Salt is a staple in most of our dishes, but it also has an unexpected household use: eliminating unwanted odors from shoes. Simply sprinkle some salt inside your shoes overnight, and by morning, the salt will have absorbed the smells, leaving your shoes fresh and odor-free.
10. Rice
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If you’re eager to ripen fruit quickly and don’t want to wait, rice can be a handy solution. Simply bury the fruit in rice, as the grains will trap the ethylene gas the fruit naturally releases, speeding up the ripening process. Just be sure not to leave the fruit in the rice for too long, or it may overripen!
Have you ever used a food item for something other than eating? Which home remedy do you regularly use? Share your favorite one with us in the comments!
credits by: Brightside.me
