Prior to the development of modern medicine, folk remedies or home remedies were used to bring relief to the sick. The use of teas, tonics, ointments and poultices was common, as people made use of substances that could be found nearby. When these early healers immigrated to the United States, they brought their knowledge with them, passing knowledge of the remedies from family member to family member as a cultural heritage. German folk remedies still flourish in the homeland and abroad, making use of flowers, seeds and barks to cure everything from headaches to fever.
Chamomile
A large mug of German chamomile tea is aromatic and soothing to the senses. It has been traditionally used to treat disorders of the nervous, reproductive and digestive systems such as insomnia, nervousness, stomach ache, gas pains, PMS and cramping due to menstruation. According to the American Chemical Society, it is also an effective treatment for the common cold as compounds in the tea increase the availability of antibacterial elements within the body. Chamomile tea can also be used to lighten the hair and to alleviate the discomfort associated with itchy, red skin rashes.
Pumpkin
According to German folk legend, pumpkins are almost a magic cure-all for the digestive system. This native North American standard is so popular it can now be found growing all over the world. Pumpkin is a high-fiber vegetable, so it stands to reason that ingesting it will help relieve constipation. Though German citizens also treat this particular affliction with a mug of dandelion tea, you may find pumpkin a bit easier to come by, depending on the time of year. To use, take two large spoonfuls of fresh or canned pumpkin (not pumpkin pie filling) and cover them in honey. Sprinkle with cinnamon or spices, if desired, and eat. Repeat as often as necessary to achieve the desired results. Additionally, studies published in the Canadian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology suggest that the seeds of the pumpkin can be eaten to offset periodic bouts of anxiety. Pumpkin seeds can also be eaten to control incidents of irritable bowel syndrome, to rid the body of parasites such as tapeworms, and to help reduce the risk of developing kidney stones. The oil in the seeds contains several compounds which have been found to have medicinal benefit, including some which may help to lower cholesterol and reduce the risk of arteriosclerosis.
Corn
This particular remedy may have been developed by German farmers after relocation to the United States, as corn is more abundantly grown in the U.S. than it is in Europe. According to Jack Ritchason in "The Little Herb Encyclopedia," rural populations of German immigrants in Pennsylvania commonly used this remedy to treat prostate problems in men over the age of 40. Six ears of corn were harvested from the field and the silks were removed from the very tip of the cob. These fresh silks were then placed into a pot of boiling water and allowed to steep for 15 minutes. The tea was strained, removing the silks, and sweetened. The affected individual was then instructed to drink the tea at least three times each day. The chemicals in the silk stimulate the production of male sexual hormones which can help to improve the overall condition of the prostate.
Tags: family member, folk remedies, German folk, have been,