With health costs soaring, people are increasingly turning to natural remedies to prevent and cure many common health problems. There are a variety of herbs, natural foods and other healthy substances that can help you maintain optimum health. The following are five of nature’s most powerful healers:


 


1. Apple Cider Vinegar


 


Apple cider vinegar has an amazing number of health benefits. Using a small amount on a daily basis is a good tonic for your entire body, and it supports the immune system. It’s also an effective remedy for heartburn or indigestion. In addition to taking it when you have stomach problems, you can take some prior to eating foods that you know cause you distress to avoid the effects it might typically have on your body. Apple cider vinegar is also good to use when you have cold or flu symptoms, since it is known to help clear congestion and relieve a sore throat.


 


 


2. Aloe Vera


 


Aloe vera is a plant that has been used for many different ailments throughout history. Used topically, it can soothe burns and skin problems. Consumed as a juice, it’s very high in vitamins, minerals, amino acids and healthy fatty acids. Many people take aloe vera to aid with digestion as well. It has helped many who suffer from acid reflux and irritable bowel syndrome. Aloe vera also helps balance the body’s pH levels since it is more alkaline, which will help your body ward off illness and disease.


 


3. Garlic


 


Garlic is not only a flavoring for many dishes, it’s also a powerful natural remedy. One of the main reasons for taking garlic is to control blood pressure. The anti-inflammatory properties of garlic make it effective for treating or preventing colds as well. Health.com lists garlic as one of nature’s best remedies for the cold and flu. If you are using it for colds, it’s best to eat the garlic raw in small pieces or minced in your food. Garlic loses many of its helpful properties when it is cooked. Used on the skin, it can also help clear up acne and psoriasis.


 


4. Green Tea


 


This is a beverage that has been popular in many Asian countries for centuries. Recently, however, the many health benefits of green tea have been discovered by the rest of the world. The antioxidants in green tea are helpful for supporting heart health. It’s a gentler stimulant than coffee. There is evidence that regular consumption of green tea can aid with weight loss. It may also be helpful for treating or preventing gum disease. For a good selection of natural and healthy green tea products, click here.


 


5. Cayenne Pepper

 


Cayenne is used to make food more spicy and flavorful, but it also has many medicinal uses. It has anti-fungal and anti-allergen properties that can help to clear up many conditions. Some migraine headache sufferers find that cayenne is useful for preventing headaches. It also stimulates the circulatory and digestive systems.


 


Nature is a vast medicine chest that has many helpful plants, herbs and other beneficial substances. The above are some of the most powerful natural remedies you can find. They are all relatively inexpensive and easy to find as well.