Joan Wilen and Lydia Wilen, experts on folk remedies, make a few recommendations to help soothe common ailments.

Arthritis: If you experience morning stiffness, you should sleep inside a sleeping bag (on your bed). The even distribution of body heat should improve your mobility in the morning.

Common Colds: Chicken soup is good, but garlic is even better for fighting of colds.

Hay Fever: If you experience sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and the like, try chewing a square-inch of honeycomb for about 10 minutes (unless you’re allergic to honey).

Headache: Take a two-inch strip of lemon peel, and rub the inside on your temples, then use a bandage to strap the rind to your forehead for 20 to 30 minutes.

Insomnia: Believe it or not, yellow onion may help you sleep. Cut one up and place the pieces in a covered jar beside your bed. If you can’t sleep, take a deep whiff and try to relax.

Leg Cramps: Nighttime leg cramps can be painful. To stop them, place a sterling or stainless steel spoon directly against the cramping muscle.