10 Remedies from Abuelita’s Kitchen and Botiquín
There’s something powerful about the way our abuelitas cared for us—using whatever they had in the kitchen or backyard. Long before wellness became trendy, our grandmothers were practicing generational medicine: infusing teas, whispering blessings over warm concoctions, and rubbing Vicks.
These remedies weren’t just practical—they were rituals. And guess what? Many of them still work Here are a few abuelita-approved remedies that have stood the test of time.
🌿 1. Manzanilla (Chamomile Tea)
Used for: Upset stomachs, anxiety, insomnia, teething babies
Why it works: Chamomile is a natural anti-inflammatory and mild sedative.
Abuelita wisdom: "Una tacita de manzanilla, y a la cama."
🫖 Bonus tip: Add a spoonful of honey and a prayer for double the effect.
💨 2. Vicks VapoRub on the Chest (…and Feet)
Used for: Colds, congestion, coughs
Why it works: Menthol, camphor, and eucalyptus open nasal passages and soothe coughs.
Abuelita wisdom: “Ponle Vicks y ponte calcetines.”
🧦 Did you know? Rubbing Vicks on your feet and covering them with socks is still a viral remedy today.
🧅 3. Onion in the Room to "Catch" the Flu
Used for: Colds, coughs, fevers
Why it works: While science is mixed, onions have antimicrobial properties.
Abuelita wisdom: “Pon una cebolla cortada cerca de la cama para jalar la fiebre.”
🧄 Even if it doesn’t work, your sinuses will be awake.
🍋 4. Lemon, Honey & Garlic Tea
Used for: Sore throats, boosting immunity
Why it works: Lemon = vitamin C, garlic = natural antibiotic, honey = antibacterial and soothes throat
Abuelita wisdom: “Todo se cura con ajo y amor.”
🍯 Modern twist: Add a pinch of cayenne for extra fire.
🧂 5. Salt Water Gargle for Sore Throats
Used for: Sore throats, gum pain, mouth ulcers
Why it works: Salt kills bacteria and reduces swelling.
Abuelita wisdom: “Haz gárgaras con agua salada. Ya.”
💧 Still one of the best zero-cost remedies out there.
🧉 6. Yerba Buena (Spearmint) for Digestive Issues
Used for: Indigestion, gas, cramps, headaches
Why it works: Yerba buena is a natural antispasmodic and calming herb.
Abuelita wisdom: “Tómate un té de yerba buena y no comas más porquería.”
🌱 Also great as a fresh herb in cold water on hot days.
🥛 7. Leche Caliente con Canela (Warm Milk with Cinnamon)
Used for: Insomnia, comfort, menstrual cramps
Why it works: Warm milk helps the body relax; cinnamon is anti-inflammatory and aromatic.
Abuelita wisdom: “Nada te calma mejor que leche tibia antes de dormir.”
🥱 Still better than melatonin for some folks.
🍌 8. Plátano Machacado con Miel (Mashed Plantain with Honey)
Used for: Constipation
Why it works: Plantains have fiber; honey aids digestion.
Abuelita wisdom: “Eso te limpia por dentro, como Dios manda.”
🥣 An old-school laxative that still tastes good.
🧂 9. Agua con Bicarbonato y Limón (Baking Soda + Lemon Water)
Used for: Heartburn, acid reflux
Why it works: Baking soda neutralizes acid, lemon stimulates digestion
Abuelita wisdom: “Eso te baja todo.”
⚠️ Use with caution—shouldn’t be a daily thing, but works in a pinch.
🍃 10. Té de Tilo (Linden Flower Tea) for Nerves and Sleep
Used for: Anxiety, insomnia, stress, nervous stomach
Why it works: Tilo (linden flower) is a natural sedative that calms the nervous system and supports restful sleep.
Cuban abuelita wisdom: “Tómate un tilo y deja que el mundo se acabe mañana.”
😌 Often given after a scare, heartbreak, or on those nights when “los nervios” won’t let you rest.
🫖 Bonus: Many abuelas would pair it with a rosary or prayer for extra calming vibes
🌙 These Remedies Were Never Just About Healing
Every tea poured, every poultice made, every whispered blessing carried the love and knowledge of generations. These abuelita remedies aren’t just cures—they’re connections to our ancestors, our land, and our collective wisdom. So next time you're feeling under the weather, head to your kitchen. Your abuela’s got your back—still.
💕 Did We Miss One?
Tell us your favorite abuelita remedy in the comments below or tag us on Instagram @latinamagick with your story!
