Do Home Remedies Even Work?

Ah yes, despite what big drug companies and corporate interests often suggest, home remedies are said to be ineffective.

After all, you cannot patent or profit much from potatoes, cabbage, or coconut oil, so according to them, these remedies could not possibly work.

That idea simply is not true.

Over the years, I have seen simple kitchen ingredients help dogs and cats recover from pain, inflammation, wounds, and even allergies. These remedies are inexpensive, accessible, and backed by real research. In many cases, they work remarkably well.

Today I want to share three lesser-known kitchen remedies that I have personally used and continue to recommend: potato, cabbage, and beeswax with coconut oil.

Dr. Jones’ Skin Relief Balm for Dogs and Cats

Three Kitchen Remedies for Pain, Inflammation, and Allergies in Pets

These are not exotic supplements. They are items many of you already have at home.

They are simple. They are affordable. And they work.

1. Potato: The Humble Healer

Potatoes are often overlooked as a healing food, but they are rich in vitamins, polyphenols, flavonoids, zinc, and other compounds that support tissue repair and reduce inflammation.

Research has shown that a 4 to 6 percent potato peel extract gel applied to wounds can speed healing by increasing collagen production and improving wound closure.

This is especially useful for pets with slow-healing wounds or chronic skin issues.

How I Use It

• Take a raw potato and slice a thin slab

• Crush it with a rolling pin to break the pulp and peel

• Apply the moist potato directly to the wound for 1 to 2 minutes

• For acute wounds, apply four times daily

• After a few days, reduce to twice daily

I have used this on Tula for a chronic wound on her nostril. It costs pennies, is gentle on the skin, and helps healing move along faster.

2. Cabbage: Nature’s Anti-Inflammatory

Cabbage has a long history as a natural remedy for inflammation. It has been used for generations to help swelling, pain, and tissue irritation.

Cabbage contains sulfur compounds, polyphenols, and enzymes that help reduce inflammation and support healing. One study even found that cabbage extract showed anti-inflammatory effects comparable to NSAIDs like ibuprofen.

The difference is that cabbage does this without toxic side effects.

How I Use It

• Take a cabbage leaf

• Crush it with a rolling pin to release the juices

• Apply the leaf directly to the affected area for 1 to 2 minutes

• Use four times daily for acute inflammation

• Reduce to twice daily for ongoing support

This works especially well for sore joints, swelling, and irritated skin. I use it regularly with Tula when she needs topical relief.

3. Beeswax and Coconut Oil: A Healing Blend

Coconut oil is well known for its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and skin-healing properties. Studies show it supports wound healing by improving collagen formation and increasing antioxidant activity in the skin.

Beeswax adds protection and additional antimicrobial support. Together, they form a soothing, safe barrier that promotes healing and keeps the area moisturized.

Best of all, it is safe if your pet licks it.

How to Make and Use It

• Melt 2 tablespoons of coconut oil with 1 teaspoon of beeswax in a small pot

• Heat gently for about 5 minutes until fully melted

• Pour into a small jar and refrigerate for 20 minutes

• Apply topically to wounds or irritated skin

• Use twice daily for 7 to 10 days or as needed

I have used this blend on Tula’s nostril and other sensitive skin areas with excellent results. It smells pleasant, protects the skin, and supports faster healing.

Why Simple Remedies Still Matter

These kitchen remedies are not outdated ideas. They are supported by research, easy to use, and gentle on the body.

Potato helps wounds heal.
Cabbage reduces pain and inflammation.
Beeswax and coconut oil protect and repair the skin.

Sometimes the most effective solutions are already sitting in your kitchen.

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P.S. Potato, cabbage, and beeswax with coconut oil are simple, low-cost tools that can help heal wounds, ease inflammation, and support skin health in dogs and cats. They are practical options every pet parent should know about.