NewsBrief

        Fox 13 News of Tampa Bay invited Dr. Kimberly Nguyen to be a part of their segment on "At Home Remedies," specifically everyday spices.  The interview was aired on the evening news on October 25, 2007.  During the interview she talked about 4 of her favorite spices that many people will have either on their spice rack or in their refrigerator.  Since the interview, we have had many calls from people who are interested in the topic that was covered.  Since Dr. Nguyen is unable to talk to everyone who calls our office about the at home remedies, she has offered this webpage that contains the information that was given during the interview.  Below is the list of the spices and their uses:

       The spices listed below have been used for thousands of years in many parts of the world.  The earliest recordings of the use of these spices/herbs were from Asia and Europe. 

Ginger

• Nausea/Vomiting due to Motion Sickness or Morning Sickness (chew on some sliced or dried ginger until symptoms are relieved)

• Headaches (mash some raw ginger and apply to affected area or drink some ginger tea)

• Colds/Flus

Cinnamon

• Stomachaches and Cramps (Cinnamon tea--add 1/4 tsp of grounded cinnamon or 1 cinnamon stick to 1 cup of hot water--wait 3-5 minutes, then sip)

• Diarrhea and Constipation (same as above)

• Heartburn (same as above)

• Common cold (also drink as tea)

**Because Ginger and Cinnamon have warming properties, they are not recommended in large doses for long term, especially in individuals whose body temperature tend to run warm to hot.**

Garlic

• Anti-inflammatory (insect bites--cut fresh garlic clove in half and apply to area)

• Fungal infections (same directions)

• Mild acne (same directions)

• **The acidity in garlic does STING, therefore treatment is not recommended for children or individuals with sensitive skin.**

Thyme

• Bad Breath (chew on some fresh or dried Thyme to help with bad breath)

• Dandruff (add 1/2 tsp of dried Thyme to about 3 cups of hot water, let sit for 10 minutes, strain Thyme leaves, then use as a hair wash)

• Fever, congestion (add 1 tsp Thyme to some steamed water and inhale the steam)

• Sore throat (add a pinch of Thyme and a pinch of sea salt to 1 cup of warm water and use as a gargle)