Sure, it’s important to have remedies on hand for colds, upset stomachs, and minor cuts and scrapes, but now that the kids are in junior high, don’t you think it’s time to toss that teething gel? And do you really have plans for those decades-old prescription pills? The key to good home health care is focusing on what you truly need.

When writer Laurie Tarkan let an internist and a naturopathic doctor peek inside her medicine chest, she figured they’d find a few things wanting. What she didn’t expect them to unearth were drugs older than her 9-year-old son, triplicate packages of decongestants, and enough Percocet to numb her brain for weeks. With Alper and naturopathic doctor Lysanji Edson’s guidance, Tarkan gave her cabinet a full-body makeover. Here’s how it looks today. 

These shelf-stable beneficial bugs may help prevent diarrhea caused by antibiotics. florastor.com

The effective blend of bacteria killers in this treatment helps ensure that minor cuts and scrapes remain free from infection. drugstore.com

Edson prescribes 1,000 mg twice daily to reduce the severity and duration of cold symptoms. solgar.com

Many doctors consider this the safest of the fever reducers and pain relievers because it has a low risk of gastrointestinal upset. High doses can cause liver damage, so Alper advises avoiding the extra-strength variety. drugstore.com

A nonsedating allergy medicine can battle fall flare-ups. drugstore.com

By aiding food breakdown, these can relieve occasional bloating and gas. purecapsdirect.com

The classic treatment contains zinc oxide, which quells the itch from bites and rashes and may dry out lesions, Alper notes. walgreens.com

This homeopathic salve includes natural antiinflammatory ingredients and can help relieve bruising and stiffness. traumeelusa.com

The herb may relieve flu symptoms, Edson says. sambucolusa.com

Soothe a cough by taking a half teaspoon of organic honey a few times a day, Edson suggests. wholesomesweeteners.com

Oregano oil has anti-viral properties. Tarkan learned to swallow two drops in a half-teaspoon of olive oil at the first sign of a cold. auracacia.com

Chamomile tea is calming and has anti-inflammatory effects. mountainroseherbs.com