If flatulence is a problem for you, consider fennel (Foeniculum vulgare). The seeds, leaves and roots of the fennel plant are readily available in many forms including plain and sugar-coated seeds (avoid), extract, oil and capsules. All offer a natural way to help relieve gas. When shopping, note that fresh fennel seeds should have a strong aroma, and other forms should have a freshness date. Simply chew and swallow one-half to one teaspoon of fennel seeds after eating, whenever distended from gas or as recommended by product label. Children can take half the adult dose.

Ayurvedically fennel strengthening agni (digestive fire) without aggravating Pitta, stopping cramping and dispelling flatulence. It is an excellent for digestive weakness in children or in the elderly. It is also calming to the nerves, their aroma acts upon the mind and promotes mental alertness. It is classifed as a brain tonic. A good general herb and spice for all constitutions.

While they may not have been your favorite as a child - especially if cooked to a mushy consistency - Brussels sprouts are worth another try. They are a natural source of dietary fiber, folic acid, vitamin C, vitamin K, beta-carotene and several key antioxidants.

Brussels sprouts:

• Support optimal functioning of the heart and immune system
• Reduce the risk of colon cancer and other cancers
• Promote healthy elimination
• Protect against birth defects

For the best taste (and most nutritional value) eat Brussels sprouts that are as fresh as possible. And to avoid the mush, try slicing them in half, brushing or tossing with some extra virgin olive oil and roasting at 400 degrees for about 35 minutes, until just browned. Shake the pan once or twice during cooking for even browning.

Tea tree oil is a powerful disinfectant and useful herbal remedy. Extracted from the leaves of Melaleuca alternifolia, a native tree of New South Wales, it is a clear liquid, strongly aromatic with an odor similar to that of eucalyptus. Tea tree oil is a good treatment for fungal infections of the skin (athlete's foot, ringworm, jock itch), toenails or fingernails - conditions notoriously resistant to treatment, even by strong systemic antibiotics. Just paint the oil on affected areas two or three times a day. You can also apply it full strength to boils and other localized infections.

A ten-percent solution (about one and a half tablespoons to a cup of warm water) can be used as a mouthwash and on skin to rinse and clean infected wounds. This dilution can also be used as an effective vaginal douche for treatment of both yeast and Trichomonas infections (although some women may find it irritating). Tea tree oil is nontoxic (but do not take it orally - it is toxic if taken internally) and available in most health-food and herb stores - choose products that are 100 percent pure tea tree oil.