Natural solutions for everyday stress

Stress is a part of everyone's life at one point or another, but with these simple and effective natural remedies, you can help yourself cope.

• For frazzled nerves, sip oat straw tea. It's inexpensive and soothing. Or try chamomile, valerian, lime flower or lemon balm.
• Drink grapefruit juice to cure a hangover. The juice is a liver tonic and also contains a sugar called fructose that helps the body burn alcohol faster.
• Use vitamins and natural extracts to ward off hay fever:
  • Vitamin C has a mild antihistamine effect.
  • Vitamin A supports the health of the mucous membranes.
  • Licorice and marshmallow teas ease irritation.
  • Horseradish tablets contain a volatile oil that dilates the sinuses and reduces congestion.
• Take willow bark tablets to treat headaches. Willow bark contains a natural form of salicylate, the active ingredient in aspirin.
• If you suffer from indigestion, try some simple reflexology. Points of the left hand correspond to points for the stomach, so massage the base of your left palm to the base of the fingertips with creeping movements of your right hand.
• To quell nausea, nibble crystallised ginger. Ginger is one of the most effective natural remedies for feeling sick. Alternatively, sip peppermint tea.
• Try activated charcoal for an inexpensive, old-time remedy for the 'sour' stomach brought on by overindulgence or stress.

Everyone has different needs: some people thrive on the fast track, others need to operate at a slower pace, but we all need a breathing space now and then. If you're regularly stressed, make sure to make time for yourself.

• If necessary, mark down when you're going to take some time to be alone and treat them as seriously as you treat business meetings.
• Avoid over-commitment by learning to say no, both to yourself and to other people. Taking on too much, whether it be work or family commitments, can lead to a breakdown in health.
• If you work in an analytical occupation such as accounting or law, try to spend some of your leisure time engaging your creative side. It doesn't have to be painting or playing a musical instrument. Gardening, cooking and woodwork all involve the imagination.
• Plan regular treats for yourself if you're under pressure over which you have no control. A lunch with your funniest friend, an aromatherapy massage or a bottle of your favourite perfume can all help to alleviate stress.
• Give yourself a reward when you have achieved something. It's important to recognize your own milestones, however small, and be good to yourself now and again.
• Consider putting some time aside for meditation. It can take as little as 20 minutes, you can do it at home and it can be an oasis of calm to escape into if the rest of your life is on fast-forward.

If you're experiencing stress from daily life, some of these natural remedies may help. But keep in mind that stress and anxiety are not something to ignore; if you're feeling overwhelmed on a regular basis, be sure to check with your doctor.