Holistic health isn’t just a trend—it’s a lifestyle that nurtures the whole person: mind, body, and spirit. For families, embracing holistic practices can create a healthier, more balanced way of living. In this guide, I’ll touch on building a natural remedy toolkit, covering things like essential oils, homeopathy, herbal teas, and even other practices of preventative care. We’ll dive into simple but powerful health habits like good nutrition, regular exercise, mindfulness, and stress management.
Remember, I’m not a doctor, but I am passionate about natural remedies and preventative care. You don’t need a long list of credentials to start making healthier choices for your family. It’s all about taking small, practical steps that add up to big changes. If you’re ready to explore simple, natural ways to support your family’s health, let’s get started!
Understanding Holistic Health
Holistic health is all about seeing the bigger picture. It’s not just about focusing on physical symptoms when someone in the family gets sick; it’s about caring for the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. When we embrace this interconnected approach to health, we start to see the magic of balance and harmony unfold in our homes.
One of the key principles of holistic health is interconnectedness. You can’t separate your body from your mind or your emotions from your physical well-being. For example, have you ever noticed how stress affects your sleep, or how a bad mood can drain your energy? When we look at health holistically, we understand that everything is connected. By addressing all these areas, we create a stronger foundation for our overall well-being.
Another important principle is balance and harmony. Life can feel like a juggling act—work, school, activities, and everything else in between. But when we strive for balance, we aim for equilibrium in all areas of life. It doesn’t mean perfection; it just means finding a rhythm that works for your family. This might look like creating time for exercise, making space for quiet moments, or just being intentional about meals. Small changes help create harmony that benefits everyone.
Finally, holistic health encourages us to explore natural healing. Instead of reaching for over-the-counter meds every time someone sneezes, we can turn to nature. Essential oils, homeopathic remedies, herbal teas—these tools can support the body’s natural healing processes without the side effects of conventional treatments. For example, a cup of chamomile tea can help calm nerves or soothe an upset tummy, while lavender oil may help promote relaxation at bedtime.
Holistic health isn’t complicated
It’s about tuning in to your family’s needs and embracing natural ways to support wellness. When you understand how interconnected we are, it becomes clear that simple changes in how we care for ourselves can create a ripple effect of health throughout your family. So, are you ready to bring more balance and natural healing into your home?
Natural Remedies for Common ailments
Let’s be honest: when the kids are feeling off or you’re battling a headache, the last thing you want is to head to the pharmacy. Thankfully, natural remedies have been our family’s go-to for everything from colds to tummy troubles. These are the simple, effective, and (best of all) non-toxic solutions that every mama can keep in her wellness toolkit.
Essential Oils
If you haven’t fallen in love with essential oils yet, trust me—you’re about to. These tiny bottles of plant magic are such lifesavers in our house. Now, mind you, we specifically only use one brand due to quality and purity, but they are amazing if you invest in quality oils. For starters, lavender oil is a game-changer. Feeling stressed? The kids bouncing off the walls? I just toss a few drops in the diffuser before bed or add some to the bath, and it’s like the whole vibe in the house shifts. It’s also amazing for helping the kids (and, ahem, me) wind down at the end of a crazy day.
And then there’s peppermint oil—oh, where do I start? Headaches, muscle aches, indigestion, overheating—you name it, peppermint can help. When I feel a headache coming on, I mix a few drops with some coconut oil and rub it on my temples. Instant relief! My kiddos love it during hikes in warm temperatures—they swear it’s the best for cooling them down. Just rub it in, and you’re good to go.
For those stuffy noses and lingering colds, eucalyptus oil is a staple. My trick? I boil some water, add a few drops of eucalyptus oil, and let the kids breathe in the steam (carefully, of course). Clears things up fast, and it’s way more pleasant than those chemical-laden alternatives. You can even rub a little diluted eucalyptus on their chests like a natural vapor rub.
Homeopathy
I know, homeopathy can sound a bit out there at first, but it’s been such a gentle and effective way to keep my family healthy. One remedy I always keep around is arnica—this one’s a must-have if you’ve got active kiddos. Whether they’re bumping into things, falling off bikes, or just being their adventurous selves, arnica helps with all those bruises and aches. I keep both the cream and the little pellets handy.
For teething babies, chamomilla is my secret weapon. I’m telling you, it saved us when Phoenix was cranky and in pain during teething. Just a few tiny pellets, and it’s like he could finally relax. I wish I’d known about this remedy with my first instead of all the motrin!
For insect bites and stings, Ledum Palustre is another favorite in our home. It’s amazing for bee stings and even helps with tick bites, which is a huge relief when we’re outside a lot. I love that I can give it to my kids and know it’s a gentle, natural remedy that works fast. Whether they’ve been buzzing around the garden or come home from a hike with a tick, Ledum Palustre takes care of the swelling and irritation, helping everything heal up smoothly. Honestly, it’s been a lifesaver during the summer months.
To learn more about homeopathy, we highly recommend the Teach Me Health & Homeopathy Curriculum from Paola Brown. The family-style curriculum makes learning about homeopathy fun and unforgettable. It is such an essential health tool kit, and the knowledge you and the kiddos gain will last a lifetime.
Teas and Herbs
When I need something a little extra, I always turn to herbs—specifically, tea, which are technically infusions. There’s just something comforting about brewing a cup of tea that makes everything feel a little better, right?
If I had to pick a favorite, it’d be chamomile. I swear by this stuff! Chamomile tea is great for calming nerves (mine or the kids’) and is a go-to for upset tummies. It’s gentle enough for our little Doodle Bug, and I love that we can all sit down with a cup before bed to unwind together. Doodle (Phoenix) is our family’s tea fanatic. He believes tea is a non-negotiable and has added it to our daily rhythm.
For digestive troubles, ginger tea is a total must-have. Motion sickness? Morning sickness? General “ugh” feeling? Ginger tea has your back. I just slice up some fresh ginger, steep it in hot water, add a little honey, and boom—instant relief. It’s so soothing and works like magic on upset stomachs.
And when the yuck season hits, echinacea is my family’s first line of defense. I like to brew it into a tea or even take it as a tincture when we’re feeling run down. It’s amazing for boosting immunity and helps us kick colds before they even take hold. Plus, it feels so empowering to have something natural to rely on when the sniffles start.
Preventative Healthcare Practices
Preventative care might sound fancy, but it’s really just about keeping you and your family healthy before any issues pop up. It’s all about creating a lifestyle that encourages wellness and stops sickness in its tracks. Think of it like setting up your family for success—one little step at a time. Let’s dive into a few easy ways you can start incorporating preventative health practices into your daily routine without feeling overwhelmed.
Nutrition: Feed Your Family Right
If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that what we feed our families matters—big time. And hey, I get it. Trying to navigate what’s “good” and what’s “bad” can feel like a full-time job. But it doesn’t have to be. Keeping things simple with whole, unprocessed foods is always a win.
We focus a lot on animal products in our house—things like grass-fed meat, organ meats (yes, I said liver!), eggs, and raw dairy. These are nutrient powerhouses that help fuel our bodies. And when it comes to fruits, we go big! The kids love it, and honestly, so do I. Fruit is full of the minerals that our bodies crave. If we’re talking veggies, we used to eat a ton, but we’ve since drifted from that practice and only eat the ones we truly enjoy because we’d rather fuel up on the really dense nutritional foods. Organic is a go-to here because I don’t love the idea of extra chemicals hanging out on our food.
The key is sticking to clean, minimally processed foods. That means avoiding anything with huge lists of ingredients. I used to say don’t eat things with ingredients you can’t pronounce, but know better, do better, I now realize that some things worth consuming have tricky names. We mainly stress not eating things that have been overly altered from their natural state. The closer to it’s natural state, the better.
Exercise: Move Together
Physical activity doesn’t have to be something you dread (or something that feels like a chore). In fact, we’ve found ways to make it a natural part of our family rhythms—and dare I say it, fun!
Our absolute favorite thing is daily walks. After breakfast is our favorite time to head outside and take a stroll together. It’s such a great way to connect before the adventures of the day, get some fresh air and sunshine, and sneak in a little exercise without even realizing it. You may not need to hit the gym every day—just walking does wonders for your heart and mind.
We also love to mix things up with more adventurous activities. Hiking, biking, or even paddle-boarding keeps us all active while making fun memories. The kids love the challenge, and we all get to bond without the distraction of screens. It’s not about perfection, just about keeping everyone moving in a way that works for your family.
Mindfulness & Stress Management: Keep Calm and Carry On
Okay, mamas, let’s talk about stress. We all know it’s there, lurking in the background of every day, but managing it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Small practices can go a long way in keeping you (and your family) feeling grounded and calm.
For me, meditating on Bible verses has been a game changer. I’ve never really connected with the way mainstream talks about meditation, but focusing on scripture? That speaks to me. Just a few minutes each day gives me the clarity I need to tackle whatever life throws my way.
Journaling is another big one for us. I love to write down my thoughts and encourage my kids to do the same. Drawing pictures can be just as powerful of a practice for littles that aren’t yet able to write. Or, you can ask them what they would like you to transcribe for them. It’s a great way to process emotions and clear your headspace. Plus, it’s something you can do at any time—morning, night, whenever you need a break.
And finally, family time. There’s nothing better for managing stress than simply spending quality time together. Whether it’s a board game night or a casual chat over dinner, these moments are like little mini resets for our souls. They remind us of what really matters and help us stay connected.
Building a Natural Remedy Arsenal: Simple Essentials Every Family Needs
Creating your natural remedy arsenal doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Think of it like building your family’s first aid kit but with healthier, natural options. Here’s how you can get started, one category at a time:
Essential Oils and remedies
These are your go-to for quick, easy fixes! Start with these basics:
- Lavender: Perfect for calming, sleep, and minor burns or skin irritations.
- Peppermint: Great for headaches, sore muscles, and boosting energy.
- Eucalyptus: Use for stuffy noses and coughs.
- Tea Tree Oil: A must-have for cuts, scrapes, and any skin issues.
- Frankincense: Supports immune function and skin healing. A total game-changer for skincare too!
- Clove: Powerful for dental health—think toothaches and gum issues.
- Rosemary: Great for boosting memory and focus or supporting hair growth.
- Cedarwood: A calming oil that helps with sleep and can also be used for hair/scalp health.
- Geranium: Fantastic for skin health, balancing hormones, and calming stress.
- Bergamot: Uplifting and great for boosting mood and combating stress.
You can also add lemon for cleaning or detoxifying, and oregano for boosting the immune system during cold season.
Homeopathic Remedies
These are gentle but effective options to have on hand:
- Arnica: For bumps, bruises, and muscle soreness.
- Chamomilla: Perfect for teething little ones or calming a cranky toddler.
- Ledum: Bee stings, tick bites, or any bug bite relief.
- Oscillococcinum: Helps nip flu-like symptoms in the bud before they get out of control.
- Aconite: Useful for the very beginning stages of a cold, especially if symptoms come on suddenly.
- Belladonna: A go-to for high fevers, especially in children.
- Gelsemium: Helps with anxiety, stage fright, and flu symptoms with body aches.
- Pulsatilla: Great for colds with thick mucus and weepy emotions (perfect for clingy kids!).
- Sulphur: Good for skin irritations and rashes, especially if they’re itchy and red.
- Calendula: Ideal for wound healing, skin irritation, and minor cuts or burns.
Consider adding Nux Vomica for overindulgence or digestive issues.
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Herbal Teas & Tinctures
Herbal remedies are soothing and easy to incorporate:
- Chamomile: Calming, great for sleep and digestion.
- Ginger: A natural anti-inflammatory that’s amazing for tummy troubles.
- Echinacea: Immune support, especially during cold and flu season.
- Elderberry Syrup: A must-have for immune-boosting.
- Peppermint: Helps with digestion and respiratory health.
- Turmeric: Powerful anti-inflammatory.
- Nettle: Packed with vitamins and minerals, nettle supports allergy relief and boosts energy.
- Holy Basil (Tulsi): A natural stress reliever that can also support respiratory health.
- Licorice Root: Great for soothing sore throats and supporting adrenal health (just be cautious if you have high blood pressure).
Toss in butterfly pea tea for a fun, colorful drink that’s packed with antioxidants!
Visit our Amazon storefront for more ideas
Supplements
Supporting your body with the right supplements can be a game-changer:
- Probiotics: A healthy gut = a strong immune system.
- Methylated Vitamin B: For energy and healthy brain function.
- Liver Capsules: Rich in nutrients like iron, vitamin A, and essential fatty acids.
- Magnesium: Supports relaxation, sleep, and muscle health.
Detox Tools
Flush out toxins and support your body’s natural detox process with these essentials:
- Epsom Salts: Ideal for detox baths and sore muscles.
- Activated Charcoal: Handy for digestive upset or accidental toxin exposure.
- Bentonite Clay: Great for binding toxins internally or in facial masks for detoxifying skin.
- Oil Pulling Kit: Using coconut oil for oral detoxification helps remove toxins and improve gum health.
- Castor Oil Packs: A powerful detox tool to improve digestion, liver health, and reduce inflammation.
You might also want to keep dry brushes on hand for improving circulation and aiding lymphatic drainage.
For more detox options, check our Amazon storefront.
Wellness Devices
These devices take your health routine to the next level:
- Vibration Platforms: Stimulates circulation and is a fun way to engage the muscles.
- Red Light Saunas: Great for detoxing and promoting skin health.
- Essential Oil Diffusers: Fill your home with the calming or energizing properties of your favorite oils.
- Infrared Heating Pads: For localized detox and pain relief, especially for sore muscles or menstrual cramps.
- Air Purifiers: A must-have for reducing toxins in the home by filtering out pollutants, dust, and allergens.
Consider adding a cold therapy tool (like ice baths) for muscle recovery and boosting circulation.
Practical Tips for Everyday Remedy Integration
Integrating holistic health into your family’s daily life can be simple when you break it down into manageable steps. Here’s how you can easily weave these practices into your routines—without feeling overwhelmed!
Morning Routine
- Start your day with a couple of minutes of deep breathing or Bible meditation to center your thoughts.
- Add a drop of peppermint essential oil to your morning shower for a refreshing and energizing boost.
- Sip warm lemon water or herbal tea like ginger to kickstart your digestion.
- Sauna time after a workout can be very beneficial
- Or try doing a workout on a vibration platform
Meal Planning & Prep
- Plan your meals around whole, organic foods like grass-fed meats and seasonal fruits.
- Batch cook on weekends—think soups, casseroles, and roasted veggies—to save time during the busy week.
- Stock up on healthy snacks, like fruit, nuts, or hard-boiled eggs, to avoid processed foods on hectic days.
- Incorporate bone broth into meals to boost your family’s immune system and overall health.
- Drink herbal teas as a calming afternoon routine
Hydration
- Jazz up your water by infusing it with slices of cucumber, lemon, or mint for added flavor and hydration.
- Enjoy essential oils in your water
- Encourage the kiddos to drink more water by using fun reusable bottles or straws to make it exciting.
- Make sure you’re adding minerals to your purified water.
- Tea is delicious ad adds to hydration
Mid-Day Mindful Movement
- Sneak in gentle movement like stretching or light exercises between tasks to refresh your body.
- If you’ve got a vibration platform, hop on it for 5-10 minutes to improve circulation and help relax tight muscles.
- Get outside for quick family walks after lunch or have the kids run around barefoot to ground and connect with nature.
Evening Wind-Down
- Create a calming bedtime routine with the family—dim the lights, diffuse lavender or cedarwood oil, and enjoy quiet time together.
- Brew a cup of chamomile or peppermint tea for a soothing end to the day, helping everyone settle down.
- Read together as a family or spend time journaling thoughts or prayers to unwind.
Weekly Detox Practices
- Once or twice a week, treat yourself to a detox bath with Epsom salts to relax sore muscles and release toxins.
- Do a gentle oil-pulling session with coconut oil to support oral health and detoxify your mouth.
- Use castor oil packs on your abdomen for digestive health and reducing inflammation.
Family Time & Fun
- Get everyone involved in fun family activities like hiking, biking, or playing at the park to sneak in exercise.
- Try a family DIY night where you make herbal teas or essential oil blends to use in your wellness routines.
More suggestions:
For more suggestions on integrating natural wellness routines and habits, check out a few of our other posts:
How to completely change your life in 6 months
Healthy Choices are a Reflection of Your Core Values
Taking Control of Your Family’s Health
Integrating holistic health practices into your family’s lifestyle brings so many benefits—from boosting immunity to reducing stress and improving overall well-being. By embracing natural remedies, you’re taking a proactive approach to creating a healthier, more balanced life for you and your loved ones. It’s about tuning into your body and trusting that simple, natural methods can be powerful tools for long-term health.
Now, I’m not a doctor, but here’s the truth—I no longer trust a healthcare system that profits from our sickness. After years of feeling misled and misguided, I’ve turned to natural solutions, research, and intuition to guide my family’s health decisions. There’s a whole world of knowledge out there, and you are more than capable of learning anything you set your mind to.
While I’m “supposed” to tell you to consult with a healthcare professional before starting a new health regimen, especially if you have any existing health conditions, I’m in a boat that believes in your ability to make informed decisions. I encourage you to research, question, and take control of your family’s well-being. Whether it’s herbs, oils, supplements, or just a return to nature—you can do this. You have the power to take charge and create a lifestyle that nourishes, heals, and thrives. Pray over your choices. I’ll be praying for you as well, friend!
So, mama, let’s keep learning, keep growing, and keep building that natural remedy arsenal. Trust yourself—you’ve got this! What’s the first change you’ll make today?