Holiday first aid kit

Insect bites
Creating your own mosquito repellent is a safe and effective alternative to commercial repellents. The most frequently used natural mosquito repellent is citronella essential oil, which is extracted from the plant cymbopagon nardus and has a pleasant citrus-like aroma. Widely available from health food shops.

Hangovers
Over-indulgence in exotic cocktails can leave us dehydrated and nursing a sore head.

Of course the best advice is probably to cut down on the booze and keep yourself well hydrated with plenty of water, but when the inevitable holiday partying takes place, you could turn to an alternative hangover cure to help you.

Milk Thistle can dampen the effects of holiday hangovers, as it supports the liver by preventing the depletion of glutathione, an amino acid-like compound that is essential in aiding the body's ability to destroy toxins and environmental pollutants. It also acts as a powerful antioxidant and helps to prevent damage from free radicals. If your liver is likely to be exposed to more toxins during your holiday, two tablets can be taken daily. Cynara Milk Thistle costs £7.99, available from Boots.

Stomach upsets
For a dodgey stomach, a silica supplement may help maintain digestive comfort and regular bowel movement. A spoonful of Silicol Gel forms a soothing coat over the lining of the stomach and intestines and can help remove toxins and irritants from the gut. Silicol Gel is available in a handy suitcase-sized packet (£6.99/200ml, £15.99/500ml) from independent health food stores. For further information visit www.silicol.com.

Summer colds
While most people are on red alert for colds in winter, summer colds still do the rounds and nobody wants to be blowing their nose on the beach! Recent research has confirmed garlic's beneficial role in preventing colds and flu, as well as secondary infections. Through modern scientific study, garlic has been found to possess antiseptic, antibiotic and antiviral qualities. Lichtwer Pharma's Kwai Garlic Once-a-Day concentrated garlic tablets are available (£4.95/30 tablets) from Boots or by calling 0845 6011223.

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