The online claim: Black cohosh eases hot flashes
Is it true? Yes
Commonly known as bugwort or rattle root, this herb is derived from a plant called Actaea racemosa. While it may sound like something from Harry Potters wizarding world, this remedy is not all hocus-pocus: Some studies suggest that black cohosh may indeed reduce hot flashes, according to guidelines re-released last year by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. “It appears to have an anti-inflammatory effect,” says Philip Hagen, MD, coeditor of Mayo Clinic Book of Home Remedies.
In fact, the herb is often prescribed in Europe; its a key ingredient in Remifemin, a popular drug there, which is also available in the United States. While U.S. studies haven’t conclusively proven that black cohosh works, Dr. Curtis says it cant hurt to try the herbjust consult with your doctor about the dosage first, and stick with it for 12 weeks, she says. (Make sure you’re getting black cohosh, not blue cohosh, which could potentially be harmful, she adds.)
The online claim: Pop calcium pills to quell PMS cramps
Is it true? Yes
Since theres scientific evidence that PMS sufferers have lower levels of calcium in their blood, its not a stretch to think that loading up on it would ease the cramps, headaches, and bloating that come at that time of the month. Indeed, research has shown that taking 600 milligrams of calcium twice a day can reduce PMS symptoms. And getting the nutrient in your food (such as calcium-packed dairy) may keep them at bay altogether: In a recent study conducted at the University of Massachusetts, Amherst, women who consumed four servings a day of skim or low-fat milk reduced their risk of developing PMS by 46%.
Note: Some women’s cramps are so severe that only prescription medication can curb them, Dr. Curtis says. So if calcium doesn’t make a difference with yours, see your doctor.
The online claim: Tea tree oil can zap your zits
Is it true? Maybe
One brand of tea tree oil sold online is dubbed “Pure Liquid Gold,” and it just may be, at least in the case of acne. A study published in the British Journal of Dermatology found that applying the extract to pimples reduced inflammation. “Tea tree oil is antifungal and antibacterial,” says Debra Jaliman, MD, a New York City–based dermatologist. “Its so effective that many of my patients prefer it to benzoyl peroxide.”
Other experts are not so keen. “The oil can cause rashes and even blistering,” warns Jerome Z. Litt, MD, assistant clinical professor of dermatology at Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland and the author of Your Skin from A to Z. If you’re nervous about using tea tree oil, Dr. Jaliman says, instead try a face wash for oily skin that contains salicylic or glycolic acid.
The online claim: Steam clears up sinus headaches
Is it true? Yes
This old-school treatmenttouted in more than 400,000 Google results!really works. “Inhaling steam flushes out your nasal passages, relieving sinus pressure,” explains Neil Kao, MD, head of research at the Allergic Disease and Asthma Center in Greenville, South Carolina.
Add a few drops of peppermint or eucalyptus oil to make it more potent. “The minty smell causes a tingling sensation in the nasal membrane, and this has a decongestant effect,” says Dr. Kao, who also suggests dabbing Vicks VapoRub at the lower rim of your nostrils. Another natural alternative: Using a neti pot to irrigate the nostrils with saline solution, which can also ease sinus symptoms, according to one study.
The online claim: Black tea bags help cold sores disappear
Is it true? No
If left alone, cold sores usually clear up in a few weeksbut who wants to wait? Online remedies for the blisters range from the absurd (like earwax) to the less silly, like placing a damp black tea bag on the sore. “Black tea leaves have tannins, compounds that may inhibit the growth of viruses and bacteria, but no studies have verified this,” Dr. Hagen says. Tea bags may also have an anti-inflammatory effect, he says. But your best bet to shorten healing time is an OTC treatment like Abreva or a prescription med like Valtrex.
To prevent sores from popping up, stay out of the sun, and use a high-SPF sunscreen around your lips: “Sunlight can trigger cold sores if youre prone to them,” Dr. Hagen says.
The online claim: Drinking cranberry juice prevents UTIs
Is it true? Yes
This popular home cure isn’t just an old wives tale: Major medical institutions, including the National Institutes of Health, agree that drinking cranberry juice can be effective for treating urinary tract infections (UTIs). “The berries contain proanthocyanidins, which keep E. coli from attaching to the bladder wall and causing an infection,” Dr. Hagen says.