Whether you are sending your child off to college, moving into your first home, or just getting yourself organized, there are some basic essentials you should keep in your medicine cabinet. They can easily be divided into four categories: first aid, cold/flu and Allergies, pain relievers, and tools of the trade.First AidBand-aids - It is best to have a variety of sizes for cuts and scrapes.Antiseptic - An antiseptic is useful to clean wounds and help prevent infections.Hydrogen peroxide - Helps to clean wounds and dissolve ear wax.Hydrocortisone - Topical ointment that helps relieve itching and rashes.Cold/Flu and AllergiesDecongestant - Decongestants are used to reduce nasal congestion and sinus pressure. (Sudafed)Antihistamine - Use an antihistamine when you have a runny nose, itchy watery eyes, sneezing and post nasal drip.Cough medications - There are three kinds of cough medicines. One help to depress coughs, one is an expectorant that help to relieve mucus, allowing you to cough it up easier, and the last are topical drugs, which, applied to the chest, help ease coughing.These over-the-counter products are helpful in relieving symptoms of colds and flu, but they are not a cure or prevention.Pain RelieversAspirin - Aspirin is used to help with pain, fever, and inflammation. Don't not give to children without checking with your doctor first. Also, aspirin can be helpful in preventing heart attacks and stroke, but be sure to check with your doctor.Acetaminophen - Acetaminophen is used to relieve mild to moderate pain, headaches, muscle aches, colds, sore throats and fever. (Tylenol)ibuprofen - Use Ibuprofen for pain, tenderness, swelling and stiffness caused by Arthritis. (Advil)Stomach and Indigestion AidsPepto Bismol - Helpful for upset stomach, heartburn, nausea and indigestion.Antacid - using an antacid like Tums or Mylanta will help relieve heartburn and abdominal pain.ToolsThermometer - Grab a digital thermometer for the easiest use. Because they are battery operated, they will need to be replaced periodically.Tweezers - Tweezers are useful for getting out splinters and other materials that get caught in the skin.With a full stock in your medicine cabinet, you'll be able to tackle almost any common, everyday ailment. Just remember to regularly check the expiration dates of your medications.