Here with a selection of secret kitchen cures to treat and prevent everyday health problems is Body + Soul senior editor, Terri Trespicio.

Banana
- Used to treat bug bites.
- Why it works: Banana peel, with its high antioxidant content, can calm inflammation, especially itchy bites.
- To use: Take the peel off of the banana. Apply peel, fruit-side down, directly to bite and hold it there.

Pesto
- Used to treat constipation.
- Why it works: It helps de-stress the body, while the flavor helps digestion.
- To use: Add 1 packed cup of fresh basil leaves to a food processor along with 1 clove of garlic, a pinch of salt, and 2 tablespoons of pine nuts. Turn the processor on and drizzle in olive oil until you achieve the desired consistency. Eat three spoonfuls whenever you're in need of relief.

Honey
- Used to treat skin infections.
- Why it works: Raw honey can heal infections from sores to scrapes, drawing infection out of the body.
- To use: Spread a thick layer over infected skin and cover with a bandage. Leave in place for 24 hours, if possible. Seek medical care for serious or ongoing infections. Manuka honey is particularly effective.

Blackstrap Molasses
- Used to treat fatigue.
- Why it works: For women suffering from run-of-the-mill fatigue, blackstrap molasses works well because it's a good source of minerals such as iron and calcium, which fortify the blood.
- To use: Dissolve 1 to 2 teaspoons of blackstrap molasses in 1/2 cup of warm milk (almond, rice, or soy). Drink daily.

Rice Water
- Used to treat diarrhea (caused by a stomach virus or a bout of food poisoning).
- Why it works: It's a remedy Bangladeshis have used for centuries. Proteins in the rice can help stabilize the bowels; it's deeply hydrating, soothing, and delicious.
- To use: Cook 1 cup of rice to 4 cups of water in a pot. Strain the rice and drink the leftover rice water, hot or cold.

Garlic
- Used to treat the common cold.
- Why it works: Raw garlic's strong antimicrobial properties are effective at fending off or treating the common cold. Works best as early intervention.
- To use: Take minced cloves of garlic, add warm water and honey to taste, stir, and swallow without chewing. After you mince, let the garlic sit for a few minutes to allow the nutrients to concentrate. Repeat every 2 to 3 hours from first sign of sickness.

Apple-Cider Vinegar
- Used to treat a fever.
- Why it works: It's acidic and speeds heat loss as it evaporates off the skin.
- To use: Combine 1 cup of apple-cider vinegar with 2 cups of water in a bowl. Dip a washcloth into the mixture and wring it out. Apply to exposed arms, legs, and torso.

Resources
For more healthy living information, visit wholeliving.com.