Thursday, June 23, 2011
Q. My father had a second-degree burn over the entire top of his foot, caused by spilling coffee. I applied soy sauce, followed by soaking in ice water.
By the next morning, the pain was largely gone, but the doctor who saw him predicted that it would turn black. When that had not happened two weeks later, he asked me what I had done to get such a result.
A. Soy sauce works very well for minor burns, but a severe burn deserves immediate medical attention. We are glad, though, that your father healed so well.
Others tell us that cold yellow mustard can help a minor burn, after liberal applications of cold water.
Nevertheless, we repeat: A serious burn, like your father’s, calls for immediate medical attention!
Q. I have read about raisins soaked in gin for arthritis pain, but have hesitated because of the gin. Lately, someone sent me another remedy that I tried. I found it works so well that I thought you might like to share it with your readers.
Mix about 1 teaspoon of cinnamon in a cup of hot water, then add 2 tablespoons of honey to it. Once it is cool enough, drink it. Do this daily for 2 weeks.
After I tried this, I was able to wear regular shoes comfortably for the first time in months. Before, I was limited to backless shoes. My ankle has not felt this good in more than a year!
A. We appreciate the remedy you have shared. We’ve not encountered this approach to joint pain before.
We do include a wide range of remedies for stiff, sore joints in our Guide to Alternatives for Arthritis. Anyone who would like a copy, please send $3 in check or money order with a long (No. 10), stamped (64 cents), self-addressed envelope to: Graedons’ People’s Pharmacy, No. AA-2, P.O. Box 52027, Durham, NC 27717-2027.
It also can be downloaded for $2 from our website: www.peoplespharmacy.com.
Q. My father and his mother both had psoriasis on their shins and elbows, so when I developed this problem at age 50, I thought I was just stuck with it.
I started filling gel caps with cooking-grade turmeric and taking several each day for joint pain.
My joints are healthier, and the psoriasis completely disappeared! We buy turmeric by the pound at East Indian cooking stores.
A. Turmeric (Curcuma longa) is the yellow spice that gives curry powder its distinctive color. Thai researchers investigated the activity of this herb in a skin-cell line and found that it has the potential to work against psoriasis (Molecules, May 10, 2011).
One component, curcumin, appears to be responsible. While physicians await the results of clinical trials (Cellular and Molecular Life Sciences, June 2008), we are pleased to hear of your success.
A word of caution for others who plan to try this: Turmeric may interact with warfarin (Coumadin) to increase the risk of bleeding. Some people also experience allergic reactions.
2011 King Features Syndicate, Inc.