Researchers at the University of Miami School of Medicine have found that ginger extract can ease pain and relieve stiffness in arthritis sufferers.

A study was carried out involving 250 patients with painful arthritis of the knee. For six weeks some of the patients were given dummy pills, while others were given ginger extract tablets.

At the end of the study the levels of stiffness,  restricted movement and pain were improved in two-thirds of those taking the ginger. This is a cheap yet effective aid that can help sufferers.
 

Make your eyes bright and beautiful with these 6 beauty experts' tricks of the trade

1. Soothe tired eyes quickly by applying raw peeled potato to them.
2. Cucumber juice contains high levels of moisture-retaining potassium to prevent water evaporation from your skin.
3. Apply cotton wool pads soaked in witch hazel or chilled milk. Milk reduces inflammation, and is a great, non-irritating moisturiser.
4. Apply cold teabags. Avoid herbal teabags - they don't usually contain all-important tannic acid.
Ordinary tea bags are better.
5. Refresh tired eyes instantly. Cover them with your hands for two minutes, and look into the dark.
6. Freshen up puffy eyes. Run a spoon under cold running water, and then apply to each eye.
 
In the name of health!

Pascale Barrow
Managing Editor of Personal & Finance Confidential