Natural remedies are increasingly available over the counter, not just in specialist health shops, but in mainstream pharmacies and supermarkets. Despite their growing popularity, some ingredients are unfamiliar and the labelling doesn't always help. Many remedies can also be made - safely and cheaply - at home, using herbs, wild flowers or even the contents of the larder. But which of these simple remedies is helpful for which condition; are they best in teas, capsules or tinctures; and how much of them should you take? Essential Guide to Natural Home Remedies steers the reader through these twin minefields. The book is divided into three main sections: Using Herbs for Common Ailments, A Directory of Herbs and Healing Plants, and Making and Buying Natural Remedies, including advice on growing your own herbs. Advice on what to keep in the home herbal medicine chest and a herbal first-aid kit; healthy houseplants; and consulting a herbalist complete an accessible but authoritative guide to preparing, buying and taking safe and effective remedies.