The first medication we’ll usually take to cure a headache, stomach ache or any sort of pain is an Advil, Motrin, Aleve or other kind of pain killer. Why take all this medication, when there are natural remedies that can cure pains just as well or even quicker!

Ever had a stomach ache or headache during school? Have a banana, rice, apple sauce or toast (collectively known as BRAT). All of these foods have been commonly used to treat children with stomach aches. On the other hand, peppermint has also been known to help stomach aches because it helps calm and numb stomach muscles so that the flow of bile, which is used to digest fats, is improved and food can move through the stomach more quickly.

Since school started, don’t you want to boost your memory? Numerous studies have shown that blueberries do mind-blowing things for memory and the brain in general. Blueberries contain anthocyanin, a known memory-boosting phytochemical. Also, apples contain high levels of quercetin, an antioxidant mostly found in the skin of the fruit that has been shown in recent studies to protect against Alzheimers disease.

Do you want to cure your anxiety before a big test? Chamomile is the best thing for you! This soothing tea has chemicals that binds to brain receptors, and also cures stomach aches. Additionally, the relaxing smell of lavender helps to cure anxiety and headaches as well as helping you fall asleep.

“Chamomile is the best thing for stomach aches – it cures them instantly!” said Whole Foods employee Laura Larsen.

Lastly, with our hectic schedules during the school year, we always need more energy. Drop that candy (or any other product packed with sugar) and pick up two bananas. Just two bananas can provide you enough energy for a 90 minute workout! For the ladies, they also help with cramps when mother nature comes for a visit.

“Before I go to the gym, I always eat two bananas, and it gives me enough energy to complete my workout” senior Maria Picardi said.

There’s no need to take all these medication or energy drinks, when just a simple ingredient can do the job.