Ethnic Home Remedies That Really Work

Feb. 19, 2005 — -- Flu season is not over yet, and in fact, the flu virus is hitting people across the country in big numbers. But one doctor says you need look no further than your own kitchen for solutions to the winter sniffles.

Appearing on ABC News' "Good Morning America," Dr. Lillian Beard, author of "Salt in the Sock and Other Tried and True Home Remedies" discussed the natural ingredients she says can combat illness. Most people have the items in their kitchen cabinets already.

Beard looked at remedies from around the world and rated the ingredients that make them effective.

Korean Remedy

Real ginger

Chinese dates

Cinnamon sticks

Scallions

Honey

Ginseng

How Does It Work?

Ginseng is a tonic that can help with fatigue. Cinnamon strengthens the immune system and is believed to have antibacterial properties.

Persian Remedy

Yogurt

Chickpeas

Turmeric

Flour

Cilantro

Parsley

Onions

White rice

How Does It Work?

The onion comes from a plant that is an anti-inflammatory, so onion has been used as a cold remedy for centuries. The other ingredient here that helps a cold is turmeric. Native to South Asia, turmeric is also believed to have anti-inflammatory properties.

Mexican Remedy

Hominy

Garlic cloves

Scallions

Cilantro

Red chili sauce

Tripe

How Does It Work?

Scallions and garlic come from the same onion family with anti-inflammatory properties. Tripe, which comes from the lining of a cow's stomach, is considered a delicacy in many countries, but Beard says she isn't sure about its medicinal value.

Other Home Remedies

Honey, lemon or lime and hot water: Lemons and limes are packed with vitamin C, and honey is a natural expectorant.

Salt in hot water: A great gargle because bacteria cannot live in salt.

Chicken noodle soup: It really does help a cold, says Beard. Use celery, onions and other vegetables for vitamins. The marrow from the chicken bone has immune system boosters. And the broth is warm and salty, which helps loosen secretions.