21 Natural Remedies Everyone Is Pinning
In an era where we are increasingly conscious of what we put into and onto our bodies, the resurgence of natural remedies is more than just a trend—it is a movement toward self-sufficiency and holistic health. Pinterest has become the digital library for these ancient secrets, modernizing them for the 21st-century kitchen. From potent anti-inflammatory tonics to skin-clearing elixirs, these 21 remedies have captured the world’s attention for their simplicity and effectiveness.
This comprehensive guide dives deep into the most viral natural remedies, providing detailed recipes, preparation methods, and the science behind why they work.
1. The Golden Milk Latte (Turmeric Elixir)
Golden Milk, or Haldi Doodh, has been a staple in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. It is pinned millions of times for its incredible anti-inflammatory properties, primarily due to curcumin, the active compound in turmeric.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of unsweetened almond milk (or coconut milk)
- 1 teaspoon of high-quality ground turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1 pinch of ground black pepper (crucial for curcumin absorption)
- 1 tablespoon of raw honey or maple syrup
- 1/4 teaspoon of coconut oil (fats help with absorption)
How to Prepare:
- Whisking: In a small saucepan, add the milk, turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, and black pepper. Whisk thoroughly to break up any clumps.
- Heating: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring it to a gentle simmer but do not let it reach a rolling boil. Stir frequently for about 5–7 minutes to allow the flavors and properties to meld.
- Enhancing: Stir in the coconut oil. This healthy fat is essential because curcumin is fat-soluble.
- Sweetening: Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before stirring in the raw honey. Adding honey to boiling liquid can destroy its beneficial enzymes.
- Serving: Pour into a mug and sprinkle with a dash of extra cinnamon on top. Drink this before bed for improved sleep and reduced joint pain.
2. Homemade Elderberry Syrup for Immune Support
During flu season, elderberry syrup is the gold standard of natural remedies. Studies suggest that elderberries can shorten the duration of a cold by inhibiting viral replication.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of dried organic elderberries (Sambucus Nigra)
- 3 cups of filtered water
- 1 cup of raw, local honey
- 1 tablespoon of fresh ginger root (peeled and sliced)
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 1/2 teaspoon of whole cloves
How to Prepare:
- Combining: Place the water, dried elderberries, ginger, cinnamon, and cloves in a medium-sized pot.
- Simmering: Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 45 minutes to an hour, or until the liquid has reduced by about half.
- Mashing: Remove from heat and use the back of a wooden spoon to mash the berries against the side of the pot to release any remaining juice.
- Straining: Pour the mixture through a fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth into a glass jar. Squeeze the berries to get every last drop of “purple gold.”
- Honey Infusion: Let the liquid cool down to room temperature. Once cool, stir in the raw honey.
- Storage: Store in a sealed glass jar in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for up to 2 months. Take one tablespoon daily for adults or one teaspoon for children during the winter months.
3. The Famous “Fire Cider” Tonic
Fire Cider is a potent, spicy, and pungent vinegar infusion popularized by herbalist Rosemary Gladstar. It is used to boost circulation, clear sinuses, and stimulate digestion.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of fresh grated horseradish root
- 1/2 cup of fresh grated ginger root
- 1 medium white onion (chopped)
- 10 cloves of garlic (crushed)
- 2 organic jalapeño peppers (sliced)
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1 tablespoon of ground turmeric
- 32 oz of Raw Apple Cider Vinegar (with “The Mother”)
- 1/2 cup of raw honey (to be added after fermentation)
How to Prepare:
- Layering: Place all the solid ingredients (horseradish, ginger, onion, garlic, peppers, lemon, turmeric) into a clean quart-sized mason jar.
- Drenching: Pour the raw Apple Cider Vinegar over the ingredients until the jar is full and everything is completely submerged.
- Fermenting: Use a piece of parchment paper under the lid (to prevent the vinegar from corroding the metal). Shake well and store in a cool, dark place for 4 to 6 weeks. Shake the jar daily.
- Straining: After 6 weeks, strain the solids through a cheesecloth, squeezing hard to get all the liquid out.
- Sweetening: Add the honey to the liquid and stir until well combined.
- Use: Take a shot daily or use it as a salad dressing for a massive health boost.
4. Apple Cider Vinegar (ACV) Morning Detox Drink
This is perhaps the most-pinned weight loss and digestion remedy. ACV helps balance blood sugar and improves gut microbiome health.
Ingredients:
- 8 oz of warm (not boiling) filtered water
- 2 tablespoons of Raw Apple Cider Vinegar
- 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger
- 1 dash of cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon of raw honey
How to Prepare:
- Preparation: In a tall glass or mug, combine the warm water and Apple Cider Vinegar.
- Mixing: Add the lemon juice, ginger, and cayenne. Stir well.
- Balancing: Add honey to taste to cut through the acidity of the vinegar.
- Consumption: Drink this first thing in the morning on an empty stomach. Use a straw if possible to protect your tooth enamel from the acidity.
5. Magnesium Oil Spray for Sleep and Muscle Tension
Magnesium deficiency is incredibly common, and transdermal (through the skin) absorption is often more effective than oral supplements for relaxing muscles.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of Magnesium Chloride flakes
- 1/2 cup of distilled water
- A glass spray bottle
How to Prepare:
- Boiling: Bring the distilled water to a boil. Distilled water is used to prolong the shelf life of the spray.
- Dissolving: Place the magnesium flakes in a glass bowl or measuring cup. Pour the boiling water over the flakes.
- Stirring: Stir until the flakes are completely dissolved.
- Cooling: Allow the mixture to cool completely.
- Bottling: Transfer the liquid into a glass spray bottle.
- Use: Spray 5–10 times on your stomach or legs before bed. It may tingle for the first few uses—this is normal and often indicates low magnesium levels.
6. Garlic-Infused Honey (The Natural Antibiotic)
Garlic is a powerful antimicrobial, and honey is a natural prebiotic and throat-soother. Together, they create an “immune bomb” that can last for months.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of raw honey
- 10–12 cloves of fresh garlic (peeled and lightly smashed)
- A clean glass jar
How to Prepare:
- Smashing: Lightly crush the garlic cloves with the side of a knife. This activates the allicin, the medicinal compound in garlic.
- Jarring: Place the garlic cloves in the glass jar.
- Covering: Pour the raw honey over the garlic. Make sure all cloves are fully submerged.
- Infusing: Close the lid and store the jar in a dark pantry for 2 to 4 weeks. Every couple of days, turn the jar upside down to ensure the garlic remains coated.
- The Fermentation: You may see small bubbles; this is normal fermentation.
- Consumption: Eat one clove and a spoonful of honey at the first sign of a cold.
7. The Ultimate Bone Broth for Gut Healing
Bone broth is rich in collagen, glycine, and minerals. It is essential for “healing and sealing” the gut lining and improving joint health.
Ingredients:
- 2–3 lbs of grass-fed beef bones or organic chicken carcasses
- 2 tablespoons of Apple Cider Vinegar (helps pull minerals from bones)
- 2 carrots (chopped)
- 2 stalks of celery (chopped)
- 1 onion (quartered)
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 1 teaspoon of sea salt
- Filtered water
How to Prepare:
- Roasting: For better flavor, roast the bones in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 30 minutes until browned.
- Transferring: Place the bones into a slow cooker or large stockpot.
- Vegetables: Add the carrots, celery, onion, and garlic.
- The Secret Step: Pour the Apple Cider Vinegar over the bones and let them sit in the pot for 20 minutes before adding water.
- Simmering: Fill the pot with water. For beef bones, simmer for 24–48 hours. For chicken, 12–24 hours. If using a stockpot, keep it on the lowest heat possible.
- Skimming: Periodically skim off any foam that rises to the top.
- Finishing: Strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve and discard the solids.
- Storage: Store in the fridge. A good bone broth should turn into a “jello” consistency when cold—that’s the collagen!
8. DIY Eucalyptus Shower Steamers
Congestion and sinus pressure are no match for these viral shower steamers. They turn your bathroom into a spa-like steam room.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of Baking Soda
- 1/2 cup of Water
- 20 drops of Eucalyptus essential oil
- 10 drops of Peppermint essential oil
- Silicone molds
How to Prepare:
- Mixing Base: Mix the baking soda and water in a bowl until you reach a “damp sand” consistency.
- Molding: Press the mixture firmly into silicone molds.
- Drying: Let them sit and dry completely for 24–48 hours.
- Adding Oils: Once dry, remove from molds and drop the essential oils directly onto each steamer.
- Using: Place one on the floor of your shower, away from the direct stream of water. The splashing water will slowly dissolve the steamer, releasing the vapors.
9. Activated Charcoal and Coconut Oil Teeth Whitener
This pitch-black paste is pinned for its ability to lift stains from coffee and tea without the harsh chemicals of commercial whiteners.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon of Activated Charcoal powder (food grade)
- 1 tablespoon of organic Coconut Oil (solidified)
- 2 drops of Peppermint essential oil
How to Prepare:
- Combining: In a small, non-metallic bowl, mix the charcoal and coconut oil. Use a wooden stick or plastic spoon (charcoal can pull toxins from metal).
- Scenting: Add the peppermint oil for freshness.
- Application: Use a dedicated “charcoal toothbrush.” Dip it into the paste and brush gently for 2 minutes.
- Rinsing: Spit (carefully, it stains sinks!) and rinse thoroughly. Use twice a week for a brighter smile.
10. Rosemary Hair Growth Water
Rosemary water is currently the #1 beauty remedy on Pinterest, with users claiming it works as well as pharmaceutical hair growth treatments.
Ingredients:
- 5 sprigs of fresh organic rosemary
- 2 cups of distilled water
- 1 tablespoon of dried horsetail (optional, for extra silica)
How to Prepare:
- Boiling: Bring the 2 cups of water to a boil in a medium pot.
- Infusing: Add the rosemary sprigs. Turn the heat down and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
- Steeping: Turn off the heat and let the rosemary steep in the water for at least 2 hours, or until the water turns a deep reddish-brown color.
- Bottling: Strain the liquid and pour it into a spray bottle.
- Use: Spray onto your scalp every night and massage it in. Do not rinse out. Store the bottle in the fridge for up to one week.
11. Castor Oil Pack for Liver Detox
Castor oil packs have been used for decades to support lymphatic drainage and liver detoxification.
Ingredients:
- Organic, Hexane-free Castor Oil (must be in a glass bottle)
- A piece of unbleached wool or cotton flannel
- A heating pad or hot water bottle
- Plastic wrap or a dedicated castor oil wrap cover
How to Prepare:
- Soaking: Fold the flannel into a square and soak it in castor oil until it is saturated but not dripping.
- Placement: Lie down and place the flannel directly onto your skin over the liver area (upper right side of the abdomen).
- Protecting: Cover the flannel with plastic wrap or a wrap cover to prevent the oil from staining your clothes/bedding.
- Heating: Place a heating pad on top of the pack.
- Resting: Relax for 45–60 minutes. Use this time for meditation.
- Clean up: Clean the skin with a solution of baking soda and water to remove the oil.
12. Clove and Coconut Oil for Toothache Relief
Clove contains eugenol, a natural anesthetic and antiseptic. This is a must-have for emergency dental pain.
Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon of Coconut Oil
- 2–3 drops of pure Clove Essential Oil (or 1/2 tsp ground cloves)
How to Prepare:
- Diluting: Never apply pure clove oil directly to the gums as it can cause burns. Mix the clove oil into the coconut oil carrier.
- Application: Use a cotton swab to apply the mixture directly to the affected tooth and the surrounding gum area.
- Timing: Hold it there for 5–10 minutes. You will feel a numbing sensation almost immediately.
- Frequency: Repeat every 2–3 hours as needed until you can see a dentist.
13. Peppermint and Lavender Headache Roll-On
This remedy is pinned by office workers and students alike for its ability to melt away tension headaches without ibuprofen.
Ingredients:
- 10ml glass roller bottle
- 15 drops of Peppermint Essential Oil (for cooling/circulation)
- 10 drops of Lavender Essential Oil (for relaxation)
- Fractionated Coconut Oil (liquid carrier oil)
How to Prepare:
- Adding Oils: Drop the peppermint and lavender essential oils into the empty roller bottle.
- Topping off: Fill the rest of the bottle with fractionated coconut oil.
- Assembling: Snap the roller ball onto the bottle and shake well.
- Application: Roll onto the temples, the base of the skull, and the wrists at the first sign of tension. Keep away from eyes!
14. Honey and Onion Cough Syrup
It sounds strange, but the sulfur in onions combined with the soothing properties of honey creates a powerful expectorant.
Ingredients:
- 1 large red onion
- Raw honey (enough to cover the onion)
- A glass jar
How to Prepare:
- Slicing: Peel and thinly slice the red onion into rings.
- Layering: Place a layer of onion in the bottom of the jar, then pour a layer of honey over it. Repeat until the jar is full.
- Waiting: Close the lid and let it sit on the counter for 12–15 hours. The honey will draw the juice out of the onion, creating a thin syrup.
- Straining: Strain out the onions and keep the liquid.
- Dosing: Take one tablespoon every few hours to soothe a cough. It tastes much better than it sounds!
15. Epsom Salt and Hibiscus Foot Soak
Perfect for tired feet and drawing out toxins, the hibiscus adds a boost of Vitamin C and a beautiful pink hue.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup of Epsom Salts
- 1/2 cup of Sea Salt
- 1/4 cup of dried Hibiscus flowers
- 5 drops of Geranium essential oil
How to Prepare:
- Mixing: In a large bowl, combine the salts and dried flowers.
- Scenting: Add the essential oil and stir thoroughly to distribute the scent.
- Soaking: Fill a basin with warm water. Add 1/2 cup of the mixture.
- Relaxing: Soak your feet for 20 minutes. The magnesium in the salts will absorb through your skin to relax your entire body.
16. Oil Pulling with Virgin Coconut Oil
An ancient Ayurvedic practice for oral health, oil pulling is pinned for its ability to whiten teeth and freshen breath by removing bacteria.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon of organic, cold-pressed Virgin Coconut Oil
How to Prepare:
- Timing: Do this first thing in the morning before eating or drinking.
- Swishing: Put the oil in your mouth (it will melt quickly). Swish it around gently, pulling it through your teeth.
- Duration: Aim for 15–20 minutes. If your jaw gets tired, you’re swishing too hard!
- Discarding: Spit the oil into a trash can (not the sink, as it can clog pipes).
- Rinsing: Rinse with warm salt water and brush your teeth as usual.
17. Beetroot and Apple “Blood Builder” Juice
Rich in iron and nitrates, this juice is pinned for increasing energy levels and improving athletic performance.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium beetroot (peeled)
- 2 green apples
- 3 stalks of celery
- 1/2 inch of fresh ginger
- 1/2 lemon (peeled)
How to Prepare:
- Cleaning: Wash all produce thoroughly.
- Chopping: Cut the beetroot and apples into sizes that fit your juicer.
- Juicing: Run all ingredients through a masticating juicer.
- Serving: Stir in a teaspoon of chia seeds if you want extra fiber. Drink immediately to get the maximum enzyme benefit.
18. Aloe Vera and Calendula Skin Soother
For sunburns, eczema, or general irritation, this “magic” gel is a Pinterest favorite for summer skincare.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup of pure Aloe Vera gel (fresh from the leaf is best)
- 1 tablespoon of Calendula-infused oil
- 3 drops of Lavender essential oil
How to Prepare:
- Blending: If using a fresh leaf, scoop out the clear gel and blend it until smooth.
- Mixing: Stir in the calendula oil and lavender oil.
- Storage: Keep this in a glass jar in the refrigerator. The coldness adds to the soothing effect.
- Application: Apply generously to any irritated skin area 3–4 times a day.
19. Chamomile and Valerian Root “Knockout” Tea
This is the ultimate herbal alternative to sleep aids. Valerian root acts as a mild sedative, while chamomile calms the nervous system.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon of dried Chamomile flowers
- 1 teaspoon of dried Valerian root
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried Lemon Balm
- 1 cup of boiling water
How to Prepare:
- Measuring: Place the herbs into a tea infuser or a french press.
- Steeping: Pour the boiling water over the herbs. Cover the cup (this keeps the medicinal volatile oils from escaping in the steam).
- Timing: Let it steep for a full 10 minutes. Valerian root needs time to release its compounds.
- Sweetening: Add a little raw honey if the earthy taste of valerian is too strong for you. Drink 30 minutes before bed.
20. Baking Soda and ACV Paste for Bee Stings and Itches
This simple chemical reaction neutralizes stings and stops the itch of mosquito bites or poison ivy.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon of Baking Soda
- 1/2 teaspoon of Apple Cider Vinegar (enough to make a paste)
How to Prepare:
- Reaction: Place the baking soda in a small bowl. Add the ACV slowly; it will fizz—this is the reaction you want.
- Consistency: Stir until it forms a thick paste.
- Application: Dab the paste directly onto the sting or bite.
- Drying: Let it dry completely on the skin. It will draw out the venom or irritant. Wash off after 15 minutes.
21. DIY Rose Water Facial Toner
Rose water is the ultimate pH balancer for the skin. It’s pinned for its ability to tighten pores and give a “glass skin” glow.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of fresh organic rose petals (pesticide-free)
- Distilled water (just enough to cover petals)
How to Prepare:
- Cleaning: Rinse the rose petals to remove any dust or tiny bugs.
- Simmering: Add the petals to a pot and cover with just enough distilled water so they are submerged. Too much water will dilute the rose water.
- Heating: Cover the pot with a lid and simmer on very low heat. Do not let it boil.
- Observation: Simmer until the petals lose their color and the water becomes a deep pink/red.
- Straining: Strain the mixture and discard the petals.
- Storage: Store the rose water in a glass spray bottle in the fridge. Use it as a toner after cleansing or a refreshing mist throughout the day.
Final Thoughts on Natural Remedies
These 21 remedies represent a return to foundational health. While they are powerful tools, remember that natural does not always mean “weak.” Always patch-test topical treatments and consult with a healthcare professional before starting new internal supplements, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or on medication. By integrating these Pinterest-famous remedies into your daily routine, you are taking a proactive step toward a more vibrant, chemical-free lifestyle.