Updated on 04/18/2024
Dear reader,
I would also like to recommend our Colombia travel guide, which provides a perfect overview of the tourist attractions in Colombia. Enjoy reading it!
Natural remedies are a popular alternative among Colombians for day-to-day ailments. The best part is that the ingredients can be found in the kitchen or easily obtained at any store in the country. So, keep reading to discover the Colombian traditional remedies that will save you from any discomfort on your journey through Colombia.
Content
Why Colombian Natural Remedies Are an Interesting Alternative
- Cultural Heritage: Many Colombians find natural remedies interesting due to their cultural heritage.
- Affordability: They are economically feasible.
- Variety of Medicinal Plants: The vast array of plants and ingredients with medicinal properties.
- Fewer Side Effects: They tend to have fewer side effects compared to conventional pharmaceutical treatments.
If you travel to Colombia, for any symptoms, more than one person will recommend you have a “aromática” or aguapanela with lemon. In fact, Colombian home remedies can be helpful when traveling through the country because changes in climate, diet, or altitude can trigger some discomforts. The best part is that you can find almost all the ingredients in a common store or supermarket.
So, here are the most common natural remedies among Colombians for typical ailments.
Traditional Remedies in Colombia
Aguapanela with Lemon
Panela water with lemon is a perfect drink to soothe the throat, hydrate yourself, and decongest the respiratory passages when you have the flu or a cold. It is the flagship hot beverage of Colombians, and it comes from sugarcane. You can have it cold or hot, although if you have the flu, I recommend having it hot.
Natural orange juice for colds
Orange juice contains vitamin C, which reduces throat and respiratory inflammation. Therefore, it is ideal for reducing the symptoms of colds or the flu. Additionally, it keeps you hydrated and helps your immune system. You can always buy a glass of fresh orange juice at street stalls or fruit stands.
Lemon verbena, lemongrass, and mint infusion to reduce throat inflammations
Lemongrass and mint have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. Similarly, lemon verbena has relaxing compounds that can help you feel better and improve sleep.
Mixture of lemon juice, honey, and ginger to relieve throat discomfort
Lemon contains vitamin C, which reduces throat inflammation, and ginger has properties that help strengthen the immune system, reduce inflammation, and alleviate irritations, such as throat irritation.
Eucalyptus infusion as a treatment for nasal congestion
Eucalyptus is known for its ability to relieve nasal and respiratory congestion when inhaled. Likewise, it is believed that if you make an infusion and let its vapors spread through your home, it helps eradicate viruses that cause respiratory problems, flu, and colds.
Mint infusion for digestive problems
Mint is famous for its calming and digestive properties. This herb can relieve stomach discomfort, indigestion, and help relax the muscles of the digestive tract. It is common to drink it before or after eating, especially if a particular dish tends to sit heavy or contains ingredients that are difficult for our stomach to process. For example, a mint infusion would be nice after eating a bandeja paisa.
Ginger infusion, a natural abdominal anti-inflammatory
Ginger is an anti-inflammatory root that can help reduce and alleviate nausea, vomiting, and stomach pain. It also aids in digestion and a feeling of fullness. I recommend taking it on an empty stomach or after meals. In fact, you can even add it to your preparations.
Chamomile infusion for stomach problems and anxiety or stress
Chamomile is a flower with anti-inflammatory and relaxing properties. Drinking chamomile tea can relieve stomach pain, indigestion, and calm intestinal muscles. Similarly, it is an excellent remedy for symptoms of anxiety or stress.
Cinnamon infusion to reduce stomach discomfort
Cinnamon helps reduce stomach inflammation and gastrointestinal discomfort. Additionally, due to its antioxidant properties, it strengthens the immune system and helps prevent cancer.
Peppermint infusion as a relaxant
Peppermint has analgesic and relaxing properties, which can help relieve headaches and reduce tension. I suggest drinking it throughout the day; it is very hydrating.
Lavender compresses as cephalic relaxants
Lavender has relaxing properties and can relieve tension, which is practical for alleviating headaches and neck pain. I recommend putting lavender oil or water on a cotton cloth and placing it on the area that hurts.
Potato compresses for headaches
This remedy was given to me by my grandmother, and according to her, potato slices have anti-inflammatory and relaxing properties. Therefore, they reduce headaches. Simply place them on your forehead while lying down and wait for them to take effect.
Valerian infusion to calm anxiety
Valerian is famous for its ability to alleviate anxiety and relax people. So, it helps reduce restlessness, distress, anxiety, and stress. Likewise, valerian helps reduce insomnia. Therefore, you can take it before bedtime.
Lemongrass infusion to relax
Lemongrass has components that relieve anxiety and help you feel relaxed. This natural remedy will help you feel calm.
Tea tree oil to treat skin problems
Tea tree oil is widely used for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties on the skin. It can help treat acne, insect bites, skin irritations, and minor wounds.
Coconut oil, an excellent moisturizer for the skin
Coconut oil is moisturizing and contains antibacterial properties. Therefore, it can help soften dry skin, alleviate minor irritations, and itching. Also, it is very practical as a lip balm and for moisturizing hair ends. Apply a small amount to the skin as needed.
Aloe vera as a soothing agent for skin irritations
Aloe vera gel is known for its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties. It helps alleviate sunburns, skin irritations, insect bites, and redness. To use it, you can buy the extracted gel or extract it naturally. To do this, you can buy aloe vera at markets, then peel its edges and soak it in water for 24 hours. After this, extract the pulp, blend it, strain it, and voila, you will have aloe vera gel.
Rosemary infusion for hair growth
It is believed that rosemary stimulates blood circulation in the scalp, which can help strengthen hair, promote its growth, and prevent hair loss.
Maca infusion to reduce fatigue
Maca is a plant that is thought to increase endurance, vitality, and energy. It is also attributed properties that regulate hormones.
Ginger and lemon infusion, a great source of energy
Ginger stimulates circulation and increases energy, while lemon is a source of vitamin C, which helps combat fatigue.
Calendula infusion, an anti-inflammatory and healing drink
Calendula is very popular for being a plant with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial components. In addition, it reduces stomach inflammations and aids in the healing and scarring of wounds or burns.
Linden infusion for better sleep
Linden is known for its ability to induce relaxation and improve sleep quality. To perceive its effects properly, take it moments before bedtime, and if it’s warm, even better.
Passionflower infusion to relieve insomnia
Passionflower is a natural sedative that helps relieve anxiety and improve the quality of our sleep. This natural drink is perfect for falling asleep.
Warm milk with thyme, the perfect sleep-inducing drink
Warm milk with thyme has relaxing effects and helps you fall asleep. This recipe is a family remedy that has been passed down from generation to generation, and I can tell you that it does work.
Warnings and Precautions for Natural Remedies
When using natural remedies, it is important to consider certain factors to avoid side effects, allergic reactions, or complications. Here are some suggestions:
- Consult a Healthcare Professional: Before starting any treatment with natural remedies, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions, are pregnant, breastfeeding, or taking other medications, consult a healthcare professional.
- Allergic Reactions: If you experience any allergic reactions, discontinue use and seek medical attention if necessary
- Avoid Using Remedies with Medications: Some natural remedies may interact with prescription or over-the-counter medications. Make sure to inform your doctor about any natural remedies you are using to prevent side effects.
- Persistent Symptoms: If symptoms persist for several days, consult a doctor instead of relying solely on natural remedies.
- Avoid Long-Term Use: Refrain from consuming natural remedies for an extended period. Most of them are intended for short-term use (no more than 1 week) or when experiencing symptoms.
- Research Dosages and Duration: Carefully research the recommended dosages and duration of any natural remedy before starting its use. Consult specialized websites such as Medical News Today and Clínica Mayo.
More about Colombia Culture and Events
Explore Colombia’s culture by browsing our blogs.
- The 45 Best and Biggest Festivals in Colombia
- What Language is Spoken in Colombia? – Colombian Language Guide
- Colombian Dialects and Jargons – Guide to Colombian Words for Foreigners
- 31 Typical Colombian Dishes from All Regions You Should Try
- Discover What is the Main Religion in Colombia and its Cultural Impact
- How Easter is Celebrated in Colombia: Traditions and Emblematic Destinations
- Guide to Visiting Churches in Colombia: Manners and Tips for Tourists
- 28 Colombian Brands You Should Know When Visiting Colombia
- The Scariest Places You Can Find in Colombia
- The 7 Most Terrifying Legends in Colombia
- 5 Incredible Indigenous Communities Still Existing in Colombia
- 17 Master Colombian Artisans You Must Know
- Top 9 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Colombia
- Curious Facts about the 14 Most Important Monuments in Colombia
- Top 12 Most Important Olympic Athletes in Colombia
- Top 10 Colombia Travel Influencers to Follow on Networks
- 24 Powerful Colombian Natural Remedies for Common Ailments
- How is New Year’s Eve Celebrated in Colombia? 15 Traditions You Should Know
- Guide to Colombian Manners and Etiquette Rules for Foreigners in Colombia
- All About Graffiti and Urban Art in Colombia
