We’re an inventive nation. No one can ever doubt our resourcefulness and our thriftiness is arguably most evident in the face of sickness.
We’re survivors. Alas, it seems we may have survived by utilising everything in sight as a medicine. Literally, everything.
A dock leaf
This is a magical, all healing gift from the gods. A dock leaf can cure the most potent of nettle stings and ease the burn of a thousand suns.
Flat 7up
There is not an upset tummy in the country that cannot be mended with some flat 7up. When things get real, microwave the 7up to flatten it even further.
A splash of whiskey
Whiskey on a soother for teething, on a cotton bud for an earache, or in a glass with a few cloves for a cold. Job done.
A Chicken Fillet Roll
Always keeps the hangover (a.k.a. death) at bay.
Sudocream
Any blemish or scratch that appears on the skin is quickly erased by this magical all-healing cream.
Jelly and ice-cream
This is the next best thing to actually having your tonsils removed.
Salt and water
Gargle it for a sore throat or use it as an antiseptic. It’s like TPC without the notions.
Toothpaste
Who needs Clearasil when everyone knows toothpaste left on over night does such an epic job of drying out and reducing spots.
Dry Toast
It solves all “tummy problems”.
Gummy Bears
These bad boys are not so much a cure as a preventative. A staple in Irish medicine presses.
Prayer
And when all else fails, of course a lit candle and a few words will solve anything.
