There was a time when most families were rural (far from the nearest town or community), had limited mobility (no 2 or 3 cars in the driveway), and when there was no InstaCare Clinic three blocks from their home. These constraints generally meant they had to be more independent and self-reliant when it came to health and wellness.

Whether it was grandma’s honey and lemon tea for a nasty sore throat, a baking soda poltice for bee stings, or mineral oil drops for an earache, mothers coped with the common ailments typical to raising families.

While times have drastically changed (most of us live in towns, mobility isn’t an issue so much, and InstaCares are popping up all over now), it wouldn’t hurt us to have a few home remedy tricks up our sleeve today. One I’d like to share is my 1st Aid Mustard Plaster I used for chest colds when my kids were growing up.

I can’t say enough good about this concoction—its ingredients are common and its effect is powerful. The vapors penetrate the nasal passages, opening things up, and they also warm the chest and loosen up any croupy stuff or other things going on in the lungs. This remedy just makes ya feel better! Here’s the recipe:

1st Aid Mustard Plaster

1 egg
2 Tbsp shortening
1 tsp camphor oil
1 Tbsp dry mustard
Flour (to thicken with)
Water (water to make spreadable consistency)

Mix and put on clean flannel cloth. Apply to bare chest. Check periodically (this can burn the skin)