Kitchen herbalism

• Rice: Has a balancing effect on the intestines. Brown rice is useful for treating indigestion, wind, bloating, ulcers, colic, constipation and diarrhoea.

• Rosemary: Antiseptic. Stimulates the circulation and detoxifies the system. Useful for weak memory, poor concentration, muscle and joint problems, coughs, colds and flu. Externally, the diluted essential oil is useful for aches and pains, and as a hair tonic. Rosemary tea is useful for candida and as a gargle for sore throats. Note: Not suitable for pregnant or breastfeeding women, or those with high blood pressure.

• Salt: In moderate doses, taken with food, a cleanser and purifier. Externally useful as a gargle (one teaspoon in a glass of water) for sore throats, tonsillitis, mouth infections and inflamed gums. Sea-salt baths are recommended for detoxification.

• Tea: In moderation, a useful nervous-system stimulant. Regulates breathing, digestion and circulation. Useful for diarrhoea, sinusitis, flu, herpes, and teeth cavities. Green tea, and to a lesser extent black tea, is believed to have powerful anti-cancer properties. Externally, useful for stopping bleeding, healing sores and as a mouthwash for ulcers.

• Vinegar: Anti bacterial, anti-fungal, cooling and decongestant. Aids absorption of calcium. Can help in cystitis, digestive problems, sinusitis and hay fever. Use externally for spots, acne, bruises, sprains, rashes, insect bites and sunburn.

• Watercress: Detoxifies the blood and warms and stimulates the system. Aids digestion. May be helpful for those prone to kidney stones, arthritis, gout, rheumatism, eczema and psoriasis. Recent reports suggest it may protect against cancer. Helps clear catarrh in chest infections. Externally can be helpful for wound healing, boils, ulcers, cold sores, haemorrhoids and rashes.

• Yoghurt: Useful for combating stomach upsets and food poisoning, and restoring balance in the digestive tract after antibiotics. Use externally for thrush, inflamed skin and sunburn.

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