What's the BEST "Alternative" therapy or "Folk" cure you've tried? (sinus, gallbladder)

[gizmobizmo]

Long before HMO's, medical research and drug companies came along, there was what we call "Folk Medicine." It's often referred to as "Alternative" medicine or therapy today. It includes vitamins, herbs, essential oils, magnets, accupunture, accupressure, meditation (mind over matter) and more.

Folks are relying less on drugs prescribed by doctors and taking a more proactive approach to their health issues or concerns with a more natural approach.

I recently tried using Tea Tree Oil for my acne. The OTC treatments just weren't doing the job. The Tea Tree Oil cleared up the acne like nobody's business. This included a cyst-like whitehead that I had had for many months. GONE the next day! Amazing stuff!!! Has many other uses, too.

What is the BEST "Folk" Cure or "Alternative" Treatment you've tried?

[borntobeme]

I see a chiropractor who does a lot of emotional health work, and natural healing. He is completly amazing. He has given me homeopathic herbs and supplements to take instead of what a "westen medical Doctor" would have given me.

Completly believe in most natural healing. You just have to find the right doctor that can help you.

[Granny Sue]

I've used Aloe for Acne and as a moisturizer. Much better and cheaper than what you can buy.

[pitt_transplant]

Tons...Tons of things.
I would say it all started with me doubting the Master Cleanse (detox fast)
Tried that because I thought "yeh right" as far as the healing went. It was a last resort before exploring surgery. My body turned around from the first fast instantly (joint pain/headaches were a MAJOR issue)

Others:
Honey - natures neosporin - which now doctors are using it
Neem - version of what tea tree does. (tea tree burns me)
Coffee + LemonRind(dry) + Olive oil - cheap scrub that brightens skin and if done in a wrap works the same as bliss's "fat girl slim" by shrinking any lumps or bloating.

[CosmicWizard]

First, read the book The Amazing Liver & Gallbladder Flush by Andreas Moritz, then follow this procedure.

[Aylalou]

Golden Naturals (brand) glucosamine sulfate for arthritis. Takes 30 days before effective. Not exactly a folk cure. Sorry.

[Ohiogirl81]

Cider vinegar for bladder infections.
Vicks Vaporub for toenail fungus
Hot bourbon toddy for colds.

[islandmommy]

Raw garlic in lieu of antibiotics... 7 crushed raw cloves a day for 7 days... I crushed it with olive oil and salt and ate it on bread. It still wasn't pretty, but this cleared up an infection that had been antibiotic resistant.

[masonsdaughter]

I use herbs or essential oils for almost everything. An echinacea/goldenseal blend for any infection, lavender oil for sinus trouble and sleeping. However, if you intend to use these things, get them from a reputable company and do your research as well as be sure you know what you are trying to treat. Also, some people may be alergic to some herbs or react differently to them. Pay attention to your body and stop taking the herb if you have an adverse reaction.

[stoymonkey]

I like mullein for chest congestion. Recently, I've gotten a Himalayan Salt Inhaler (i've seen different types in different catalogs) and have felt a big difference in my lungs (taking deep breaths is easier, exercising is easier, etc.)