aromatherapy

Lavender has been known for quite some time to calm nerves, restore balance, and promote rest. That is why it’s commonly used in linen sprays, potpourri, perfumes, and oils. But now a clinically-studied lavender oil supplement has been discovered as a safe, non-habit-forming way to help you feel more relaxed and stay productive.

If holiday stress has you OD’ing on sugary snacks or pouring yourself that third glass of wine at night, a new study from the Warwick Olfaction Research Group in England offers a saner solution: Simply smelling certain fragrances has a stress-reducing effect on the brain that’s similar to food and even some mood-altering drugs.

For kids, back to school means excitement and anticipation. For parents, it means colds, flus, rashes—and back to the doctor. Come September, along with their art projects and homework assignments, kids start coming home with an array of germs that leave them—and the rest of the family—sick, sapped, and cranky.