Some old remedies stand the test of time for good reason. They work.
Nutritional Therapist Kerry O’Connor reveals a few of her favourites.

The new year is the perfect time for some self-care the natural way. Few of us may have heard of organic black seed oil, but it has been popular in the Middle East and the Far East for thousands of years. It is traditionally used in food as a general wellbeing oil. It is derived from the black seeds of the Nigella Sativa plant, a small plant with pale purple, blue or white flowers that grows abundantly in Eastern Europe, Western Asia and in the Middle East.

The seeds are also known as black caraway, black cumin, kalonji and black onion seeds. Culinary fans may have come across them being used to flavour curries, bread and pickles in a similar way to more well-known spices like cumin and coriander. Organic black seed oil has a pleasant aroma and taste and so can be used in salad dressings, for baking and is particularly delicious when drizzled over side dishes like roasted vegetables.

Also known as The Blessed Seed, the oil is not just good to eat and in the Middle East people add it to massage oils, homemade skincare products and fragrances because of the benefits in traditional use. One Nutrition Organic Black Seed Oil is a high-quality black cumin seed oil made exclusively from organic Egyptian black seed, preserved in an amber glass bottle.

Party season can place additional strain on our bodies and many of us aim for an alcohol-free January to allow our bodies to recharge and cleanse. To give the body some extra support try Milk Thistle, which is a flowering herb related to the daisy and ragweed family. It has been taken as a trusted folk remedy for generations. Irish Botanica’s Milk Thistle is ethically sourced, Irish owned and produced, and uses a high strength organic tincture for better efficacy.

Organic Black Seed Dry Hair Mask - This is a great mask to deep condition dry hair and scalp.

> Mix together equal parts organic black seed oil and olive oil or coconut oil (the coconut oil will leave your hair smelling delicious). Use about two tablespoons of each to start.

> Divide your hair into sections and using your fingers, fully coat each section with the oil mix.

> When coated massage the oil well into your hair and scalp and wrap in a warm damp towel.

> Leave for about 30 minutes and rinse well.

One Nutrition Organic Black Seed Oil and Irish Botanica’s Milk Thistle are exclusive to Health Stores and Pharmacies nationwide.