Try an oatmeal bath. In a blender, grind dry rolled oats into a very fine powder. Add two cups to a bath of lukewarm water. Simply pat skin dry.

Pep up poor circulation by taking a mustard footbath. Simply add one tablespoon of dried mustard to a bowl of hot water and soak your feet.

If the sore is drying out, dab on a few drops of oil of St John’s Wort. If it’s weeping, brew some lemon balm tea, strain, and apply with a cotton bud.

Taking Echinacea at the first sign of a sniffle often bolsters the system sufficiently to help the body fight the virus. I also recommend tincture or tablets of astragalus, a powerful Chinese herb known to improve immune function. Plus, try my potent ginger-garlic tea to fight off colds and flu. Simmer one teaspoon of grated […]

Peppermint tea provides relief by promoting digestion and helping to expel wind. To make, pour one cup of boiling water over two teaspoons of dried peppermint leaves. Cover and let sit for 15 minutes, then strain. Give the baby half a teaspoonful as often as needed.

My Nanna’s syrup of figs is still the best remedy. Combine half a cup each of chopped dried figs, raisins and pearl barley, and a quarter of a cup of chopped liquorice root (from health food stores) in a saucepan with one litre of water. Bring to boil and simmer, covered, for 30 minutes; strain. […]

Make time once a year to have your good rings and earrings cleaned and polished at the jewellers. This will make them sparkle like brand new.

Consider packing darker-coloured clothes when travelling. They won’t show dirt easily and this avoids excessive hotel cleaning bills.

Look taller instantly by wearing one colour from head to toe. Choose a close-fitting shape, rather than a full one, and avoid anything like a contrasting belt that breaks the vertical line.

To get the most out of an outfit, choose a simple, classic style in a versatile colour. Just change the shoes and other accessories to take it right through from day to night.