You probably already know just what each item in your medicine cabinet should be used to cure. You are aware that if your tummy acts up, you need to take an antacid. You know that an allergic reaction requires taking an antihistamine. You know that a headache requires ibuprofen or acetaminophen. Did you know, though, that essentially all of the stuff in your medicine cabinet can be applied to a lot of other ailments as well? Consider these uncommon remedies for extremely common problems.

You already know that antacids like Alka-Seltzer can help you stop heartburn or stomach issues. Did you know, though, that you can use Alka Seltzer (and other antacids) to ease the sting of a bug bite also? This is because nearly all antacids (like Alka Seltzer for example) have aspirin in them and that brings down how much pain and stinging you feel when you get an insect bit. Make a paste by pulverizing an antacid tablet, a little bit of oatmeal and some water. Spread it out over the affective area and you will discover that it stops hurting almost immediately. This remedy works a lot better than those remedies that are meant for the problem, like calamine lotion.

You already know that mouthwash can help you fight halitosis but did you know that it can fight athlete's foot also? Mouthwashes with alcohol in them are great for helping your feet and toes remain clean and healthy. Try soaking a cotton ball in your alcohol based mouthwash and then rub the cotton ball over the soles of your feet and between your toes after you shower. The alcohol in the mouthwash will kill any fungal infections that might be trying to take hold.

One of baking soda's everyday uses is the cleaning of teeth. Baking soda is an effective as an at-home tooth whitener and is good for an oral scrub. But did you know that it is a great treatment for skin conditions like sunburns also? Baking soda has properties that have a neutralizing effect on the skin's pH balance. If you are looking to get as much relief as possible, pour a cup of baking soda into your bath water--under the running tap of water--wait until it has entirely dissolved and then soak in the water for about thirty minutes.

You know that aloe vera works wonderfully in treating burns. It can soothe the skin and help alleviate the pain of most skin burns from sunburns to second-degree burns. Then again, did you know that aloe vera can eliminate canker sores as well? The same properties that help skin burns can help get rid of your canker sores. Studies have found that individuals who treat canker sores with aloe vera heal as much as 50% more quickly than individuals who use traditional cures.

These are merely a few of the unconventional ways you can use conventional remedies. Instead of running out to spend money on the latest over-the-counter cure for your problem, why not try something that you already have at home? The curatives in your cabinets are good for more than one thing each -- make them earn their keeps!