The internet is full of weird and intriguing home remedies—some helpful, some harmless, and some that make pharmacists want to cringe. While natural remedies and home treatments have their place, there are plenty of DIY remedies or “cures” that are ineffective, risky, or just plain wrong.
Here are 10 of the worst DIY remedies that pharmacists cringe at—plus what you could do instead.
1. Using Leftover Antibiotics for a “Similar” Infection
💊 “I had an ear infection last year, and these antibiotics worked great, so I’ll just take them again!”
❌ Why it’s bad:
- Not all infections are the same—antibiotics need to be targeted.
- Taking incomplete or old antibiotics can contribute to antibiotic resistance.
- If you don’t finish a full course, the bacteria may not be completely wiped out.
✅ What to do instead:
- See a doctor or pharmacist to determine if antibiotics are actually needed.
- Always finish your prescribed antibiotic course, even if you feel better.
2. Sticking Garlic in Your Ear to Cure an Ear Infection
🧄 “Garlic is antibacterial, so it should clear up my ear infection, right?”
❌ Why it’s bad:
- Garlic won’t penetrate deep enough to actually help.
- It can cause skin irritation or burns in the ear canal.
- You’re more likely to end up with an ear full of garlic and an infection.
✅ What to do instead:
- See a healthcare professional—ear infections may need antibiotics.
- Use warm compresses and over-the-counter pain relievers for relief.
3. Pouring Hydrogen Peroxide on Cuts and Scrapes
🩹 “It bubbles! That must mean it’s killing all the bacteria.”
❌ Why it’s bad:
- Hydrogen peroxide kills bacteria and healthy skin cells, slowing healing.
- It can cause unnecessary irritation to wounds.
✅ What to do instead:
- Wash wounds with soap and water—it’s just as effective and less damaging.
- Use antibiotic ointment and a bandage to promote healing.
4. Drinking Apple Cider Vinegar for Weight Loss, Immunity, or Digestion
🍏 “I take a shot of apple cider vinegar every morning—it fixes everything!”
❌ Why it’s bad:
- It erodes tooth enamel and can cause stomach irritation.
- It’s not a miracle cure—it won’t burn fat or detox your body.
✅ What to do instead:
- Focus on a balanced diet and lifestyle changes for real health benefits.
- If you do drink apple cider vinegar, dilute it in water and use a straw to protect your teeth.
5. Making DIY Sunscreen with Coconut Oil and Essential Oils
☀️ “I don’t trust chemicals, so I make my own sunscreen.”
❌ Why it’s bad:
- Coconut oil has almost no UV protection.
- DIY sunscreens don’t undergo testing for SPF effectiveness.
- This puts you at serious risk for sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer.
✅ What to do instead:
- Use a dermatologist-approved broad-spectrum sunscreen with SPF 30+.
- Look for mineral sunscreens with zinc oxide or titanium dioxide if you want a natural option.
6. Using Essential Oils for Everything
🌿 “Lavender oil heals burns, tea tree oil cures acne, and peppermint oil helps migraines.”
❌ Why it’s bad:
- While some essential oils have mild benefits, they are not a replacement for medical treatments.
- Many people develop skin irritation or allergic reactions.
- Ingesting essential oils can be toxic.
✅ What to do instead:
- Use essential oils safely and sparingly—dilute them properly.
- Consult a pharmacist or doctor before using them for serious health conditions.
7. Putting Butter on Burns
🧈 “My grandma always said butter helps soothe burns.”
❌ Why it’s bad:
- Butter traps heat in the skin, making the burn worse.
- It increases the risk of infection.
✅ What to do instead:
- Run cool (not ice-cold) water over the burn for 10–15 minutes.
- Apply aloe vera gel or a burn cream, and keep the area clean.
8. Drinking Baking Soda for Heartburn
🥤 “Baking soda neutralizes acid, so it should stop my heartburn!”
❌ Why it’s bad:
- It can cause bloating, gas, and electrolyte imbalances.
- Regular use can lead to high sodium intake and kidney issues.
✅ What to do instead:
- Use antacids or H2 blockers (like ranitidine) for occasional heartburn.
- For frequent acid reflux, see a doctor—you may need medication.
9. Using Coca-Cola or Lemon Juice as Birth Control
🥤🍋 “I heard rinsing with Coke or lemon juice can prevent pregnancy.”
❌ Why it’s bad:
- Neither of these methods work at all.
- Lemon juice can cause severe vaginal irritation.
- Coca-Cola is not a spermicide—this myth needs to die.
✅ What to do instead:
- Use real birth control methods: condoms, oral contraceptives, IUDs, etc.
- Speak to a pharmacist about safe and effective contraception options.
10. Sticking Garlic in Your Nose to Clear Congestion
👃🧄 “It makes my nose run, so it must be clearing my sinuses!”
❌ Why it’s bad:
- The garlic doesn’t actually treat congestion—it’s just irritating your nasal lining.
- It can cause burns, inflammation, or even get stuck (yes, ER doctors have seen this).
✅ What to do instead:
- Use saline nasal sprays or a neti pot to clear sinuses.
- Try steam inhalation or decongestants if needed.
The Bottom Line
Some DIY remedies can be fun to experiment with, but some are more harmful than helpful. When in doubt, check with a pharmacist or doctor before trying questionable treatments.
What’s the wildest home remedy you’ve ever heard of? Drop it in the comments! 🚑