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Vodka And Duct Tape Among Great Home Remedies

BOSTON (CBS) - When most of us get sick or need medical attention, we want the latest high tech remedy. But you might not need it. There are many simple cures to little ailments right around your house.

Would you ever consider rubbing your feet with vodka?

Well, that's one unorthodox treatment for foot odor. Dr. Albert Levy, a family doctor, says the alcohol in the vodka can work like an antiseptic, killing odor causing fungus and bacteria.

There are many cures which sound crazy, but actually work.

For example, duct tape can help eliminate warts. A recent academic study found covering a wart with this all purpose tape works better than the traditional treatment of freezing them off.

WBZ-TV's Paula Ebben reports.

The duct tape basically suffocates the wart causing it to shrink over time. "A wart is a virus, so you don't want the virus to thrive," said Dr. Levy.

Another unconventional treatment involves tension headaches. Just grab a pencil, but instead of writing with it, clench it in your teeth.

This will relax your jaw, and the muscles that connect it to the temple area. "This position of the pencil may alleviate TMJ," said Dr. Levy.

Foods can also play different roles as well. For example, try yogurt to combat bad breath.

Applying olive oil to your skin can help alleviate eczema.

A teaspoon of sugar really can help rid hiccups.

Powered cloves on a cut can help keep it from getting infected. Dr. Levy added that many dentists have used this trick for years.

Listerine can perform other functions besides freshening your breath. It also helps blisters heal and stay clean. Just dab it on three a day until the area dries out and no longer hurts.

Of course doctors say that if anything is serious or persists for a long period of time, you should be seen by a medical professional.

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