People's Pharmacy

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Will Coconut Help Thyroid?

Posting Date: 03/14/2005

Although leg cramps are painful, you don't need to get scared. They are not life threatening.

Q. You told a reader that fennel tastes like licorice but has none of the dangers. I was not aware that licorice had any dangers. I read years ago that it's good for people with high blood pressure. What's the problem?

A. Licorice root tea and candy made from real licorice may have medicinal properties. Licorice has been used traditionally to ease symptoms of cough, sore throat and indigestion.

But too much of this herb can lead to fluid retention and high blood pressure,

lowered sex drive or potassium loss. Pregnant women, people with high blood pressure and those with kidney problems should stay away from genuine licorice.

Q. I read your column about NOT using Vicks inside the nose and assumed Mentholatum was OK to use. But the microscopic print on the side of the jar says not to use it in the nostrils. I have used Mentholatum to relieve dryness in my nose off and on my whole life. Have I done myself much harm?

A. Mentholatum, like Vicks VapoRub, has a petrolatum base. When there is petroleum jelly in the nose, small quantities can be inhaled into the lungs. With no way to get it out of the lungs, it may eventually build up and cause cough and shortness of breath.

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In their column, Joe and Teresa Graedon answer letters from readers. Write to them in care of this newspaper or e-mail them via their Web site: www.PeoplesPharmacy.org. Their newest book is The People's Pharmacy Guide to Home and Herbal Remedies (St. Martin's Press).