A First-Aid Kit for TV's MacGyver

There are few things more intriguing than taking things we use every single day and finding fantastic new ways to use them. Many of these become the subject of “urban myths” or “old wives' tales.” How to treat illnesses and injuries are one of the most common form of these tales. Many remember the television show MacGyver, where a secret agent was able to fight crime and succeed in nearly any situation using only the common items around him. Below are some common substances we see everyday and how a creative person like TV's MacGyver could use them in medical situations.

Raw Honey: Many places report that honey works as an antiseptic, sterilizing wounds and soothing burns. The vitamins contained in honey are reported to boost the immune system and help with a sore throat.

Duct Tape: What many consider to be the best do-it-all tool, duct tape is also claimed to be useful in the medical field. Many believe that duct tape can heal warts, and that it is a superior bandage for wounds and creating a temporary cast or brace.

Mouthwash: Many mouthwashes work as an antiseptic, meaning they kill germs. These washes are designed to kill bacteria in the mouth, but many claim that mouthwash functions as a functional topical antiseptic for wounds and fungus.

Garlic: Garlic has been found to contain antibiotic properties. It is often believed that garlic was used to help plague victims, and modern stories involve garlic being used to ward off anthrax.

Vinegar: White Vinegar is one of the must common sources of “home remedies.” Among the medical claims are reports that vinegar relieves burns, eases sore throats, eases sinus congestion, and eases stomach aches.

Potatoes: It is claimed that potatoes can be used to soothe burns, many claiming to have maid a “potato-peel bandage” that is more effective than traditional bandaging. It is also claimed that a cut potato can be applied to the forehead to ease a headache.

Lemons/Limes: Many uses for these fruits is common due to the properties of citric acid, a substance found common in these fruits. Many recommend these fruits to assist in weight loss, as an antiseptic, for treating burns, constipation, treating ulcers, and many others.

Aspirin: Now aspirin is already a common pain killer, but it also is reported to have many other properties. Aspirin is an anticoagulant, possibly preventing heart attacks. Many also claim that rubbing an aspirin pill over a wet bee sting or mosquito bite helps to soothe the bite and reduce the swelling, though it would not suppress an allergic reaction.

Now as with anything used for a medicinal purpose it is still vital to consult a doctor, since everyone is different and reacts to substances differently. There are many people who study and practice alternative medicines as a career, and the number of institutions offering degrees in alternative medicine is growing. With all the procedural medical shows, it may be time for a show about a Dr. MacGyverhealing patients with common materials in place of expensive tests.