Honey and lemon for a cough
A familiar warm drink, with limits worth knowing.
Evidence: Limited evidenceHealth & comfortProfessional review pending
Ingredient
water
Also known as cold water, warm water, boiled water, tap water.
These entries mention water. Being listed here does not mean every use is safe or supported — some entries exist to record that a traditional use should be avoided.
Salt-water gargling for a sore throat
A simple gargle mentioned in NHS self-care advice.
Evidence: Included in clinical self-care guidanceHealth & comfortProfessional review pending
Vinegar for windows
A diluted vinegar option for suitable glass surfaces.
Evidence: Practical extension guidanceCleaning & home
Cold water for fresh blood stains
Start with cool water on suitable washable fabric.
Evidence: Practical extension guidanceLaundry & stains
The egg float test: freshness versus safety
Floating tells you about an egg’s air cell, not a safety guarantee.
Evidence: Important limitationImportant limitationKitchen & food
Milk for cats: tradition and suitability
The familiar saucer of milk is not a substitute for water.
Evidence: Veterinary welfare guidance cautionsPets & animalsProfessional review pending
Descaling a kettle with vinegar
A half-and-half vinegar soak loosens limescale; rinse boils remove the taste.
Evidence: Tested by a consumer kitchen publicationCleaning & home
Sunshine for whitening laundry
Line-drying whites flat in strong sun is a long-standing brightening habit.
Evidence: Home-publication trial; informalLaundry & stains
White vinegar as a fabric rinse
A manufacturer suggests vinegar soaks for some stains but not in the machine itself.
Evidence: Appliance-maker guidance; limitedLaundry & stains
Storing cut herbs in water
Stand trimmed stems in a little water, loosely covered, in the fridge.
Evidence: University extension food guidanceKitchen & food
Dishwashing liquid for aphids
Soap sprays work on soft-bodied pests, but homemade mixes can harm plants.
Evidence: University extension: works on soft-bodied pests; plant injury possibleImportant limitationGarden & plants
Steam over a bowl for congestion
The NHS and British Burn Association urge people not to do this.
Evidence: NHS public safety warning againstAvoid this useHealth & comfortProfessional review pending
Cool water and aftersun for sunburn
The NHS advises cooling the skin and an unperfumed moisturiser.
Evidence: Included in clinical self-care guidanceHealth & comfortProfessional review pending