Sugar and spice, and all things nice.

Before the days of over-the-counter medicines, householders relied on nature and the kitchen to find their cures!

For minor ailments, your kitchen cupboards can provide an array of safe, effective and healing ingredients.

Vinegar

Vinegar is a weak acid which is excellent for combatting fungal infections such as athlete’s foot. Simply spray vinegar into your shoes and leave to dry!

Sugar

Sugar can be used to draw out splinters. Mix a pinch or two of sugar with some soft soap to make a paste. Apply over the splinter, cover with a plaster and leave overnight. In the morning, the splinter should come out easily.

Salt

A handful of salt added to a warm bath can help relieve minor aches and pains and draw out toxins. Try it if you’ve got post-viral achiness to help speed recovery.

Oats

Oats are excellent for itchy skin conditions such as eczema or chickenpox. Add a handful of oats to a piece of muslin, tie it up and pop it in your bath. Squeeze out the milky liquid to soothe and soften your skin.