Friday, April 22, 2011

Folk Remedies

Russians are well known for their dislike of modern medicine and their distrust in pills. Many of them prefer to "fix" health problems by the use of old remedies passed down for generations. Many times, they chose to use fruits, berries, and herbs to soothe symptoms and cure common ailments.
Some things can be as weird as pouring honey into a hollowed out ребка and drinking it with a spoon. Here is a list of other weird but possibly positive remedies.
For Nasal Congestion:
Chop one clove of garlic and combine with 1 Tbsp vegetable oil. Let steep over night, strain then use as nose drops. Or, roll a just boiled egg back and forth over the sinuses to relieve pressure.
For a cough:
Cover pieces of paper in a mustard flour (gorchichniki) soaked in warm water. Place over the chest and back for 10-20 minute intervals while under a blanket. This will allow blood flow to the area and make it easier to breathe. They must stay under the blanket for the rest of the night though to keep warm.
For the common cold:
Chop 4 tsp. of horseradish very thin and wrap in hot gauze. Then tie the gauze to the back of the head.


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