Headache: Peppermint

Peppermint extract or oil, used commonly in baking, doubles as a reliable headache cure -- one backed by several small clinical trials and lots of anecdotal evidence.

Try It: Fill a small bowl with ice water and add 5 to 7 drops of peppermint oil. Dip a washcloth into the bowl, wring it out, and apply the compress to your forehead for 10 to 15 minutes. Alternatively, add several drops of the oil to a washcloth, throw it into the corner of a shower, and climb into the minty steam.

Sprains and Strains: Lettuce

Lettuce's anti-inflammatory effects make it a good topical remedy for simple sprains and strains since lettuce is rich in lactucin, a calming alkaloid.

Try It: Chop up a few cold lettuce leaves, apply to the sprained area, and wrap loosely in an elastic bandage. Change the poultice when it grows hot.

Indigestion: Ginger & Salt

In the Ayurvedic view, indigestion often stems from weak "digestive fire," known as agni. Stoke yours -- and prevent indigestion -- by taking ginger and salt before a meal.

Try It: Grate an inch of peeled, fresh ginger. Take a pinch or two and mix with a pinch or two of sea salt to make a paste. Chew on the mixture for a minute or two, then swallow. Wash it down with warm water and enjoy your meal.

UTIs: Cranberry

Many folk remedies exist outside the realm of science; they've just always worked. But certain remedies have the additional backing of research. Cranberry juice has emerged in multiple clinical trials as an effective treatment for urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Try It: Drink a cup of 100 percent cranberry juice (or 1 tablespoon of concentrate dissolved in a cup of water) at the first sign of infection; repeat three or more times daily until symptoms abate. If you don't see an improvement after 48 hours, see your doctor.

PMS Bloating: Sage

If you tend to gain a pants size during your monthly cycle, banish the bloat with homemade sage tea. Common kitchen sage

has drying properties that make it a terrific mild diuretic with no known side effects. As a bonus, sage tea is also an effective remedy for PMS-related moodiness.

Try It: Boil 1/3 teaspoon of dried or fresh sage in a cup of water and strain; drink three or four times a day when you're bloated.

Toothache: Clove

If the dentist isn't close at hand, seek relief in the spice cabinet. Clove will immediately numb the gum and fight whatever infection might be brewing underneath.

Try It: Add a few drops of water to 1/8 teaspoon ground cloves to make a thick paste. Pack on the sore gum for 5 to 10 minutes, then spit out. Repeat as needed. Be careful not to rub your eyes after applying. Not for use on babies and toddlers (unless it's very diluted).

Sore Throat: Honey, Lemon & Cayenne

When you're having trouble swallowing, honey, lemon, and cayenne pepper can bring soothing relief. The lemon contracts inflamed tissues and provides vitamin C, the honey soothes and disinfects, and the cayenne stimulates circulation and encourages healing.

Try It: Fill a tablespoon halfway with honey, and then squeeze a lemon to fill the spoon with juice. Sprinkle on 1/8 to 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, put the spoon in your mouth, and suck on it slowly. Repeat as needed.

Blemishes, Rashes, and Burns:Turmeric

Turmeric's many healing properties make it effective for a wide range of skin conditions. "It's antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, and antitumoral," explains Hansen. Use it topically to bring pimples to a head quickly and soothe acne, scrapes, and sunburns. (In India, they even sell Band-Aids infused with the spice.) It stains, so be sure to wash your hands after use.

Try It: Add several drops of water or aloe-vera juice (available at health-food stores) to 1/2 teaspoon of powdered turmeric to make a thin paste. With your fingers, spread the mixture on blemishes, sunburns, or acne. Leave on for up to an hour, then rinse.