Natural alternatives to mass meds.(Goodnews: essential natural health news)

Each month, Amber D. Ackerson, ND, informs you about complementary and alternative choices to mass-produced over-the-counter (OTC) drugs.

 
CONDITION                OTC DRUG                   ALTERNATIVE 
 
Acne            Clearasil (Benzoyl peroxide) Tea tree oil (Melaleuca 
                                             alternifolia): 5-15 
                                             percent preparation 
                                             applied topically one 
                                             to two times daily after 
                                             washing face. 
 
Athlete's Foot  Desenex (undecylinic acid),  Fresh garlic poultice: In 
                Monistat (miconazole),       the evening, apply one 
                Lotrimin (clotrimazole)      clove of fresh, crushed 
                                             garlic to affected area, 
                                             cover area with a 
                                             breatheable bandage or use 
                                             sterile gauze, then cover 
                                             foot with clean sock. 
                                             Leave on overnight. Repeat 
                                             for 3-7 nights, as needed. 
                                             Kolorex cream (Nature's 
                                             Sources), used as directed 
                                             is also effective, as is 
                                             tea tree oil (see Acne 
                                             above) applied several 
                                             times a day. 
 
Eczema          Topical hydrocortisone       Topical licorice and or 
                cream (numerous brands)      comfrey cream or salve. 
                                             If eczema is ...