A few simple and natural solutions to irritations

Q. My husband's internist suggested glucosamine and chondroitin for mild arthritis. My husband's medical records state that he is allergic to shellfish.
I guess his doctor did not know that ground shellfish is a component of many glucosamine-chondroitin supplements. After several days on the supplement, my husband was rushed to the hospital with symptoms of a severe allergic reaction. After three days of testing, they couldn't find a cause. Then I read the ingredients listed on the glucosamine label and discovered the shellfish.
He stopped taking the supplement and has not had another episode. Perhaps his story will help prevent a similar occurrence in others with a shellfish allergy.
A. Glucosamine is often made from the shells of crab, shrimp and lobster. Most people who are allergic to shellfish are sensitive to a protein in the muscle rather than the shell. But rather than risk a potentially life-threatening reaction, people who are allergic to shellfish should avoid glucosamine or look for kosher vegetarian glucosamine called Regenasure.
Q. I suffered for years from vaginal dryness and tried a lot of treatments for it. Then I read about using Corn Huskers lotion. The results have been incredible! The lotion is inexpensive and works better than a progesterone cream my doctor prescribed.
A. We've heard from others who have found that this old-fashioned hand moisturizer can be helpful for vaginal dryness. Some of the ingredients are identical to those in pricier personal lubricants.
Q. I've had terrible trouble with my scalp for more than a year. The dermatologist I saw diagnosed my condition as severe dandruff, or seborrheic dermatitis.
My scalp itches and flakes, and I shed big hunks of white skin. It makes me miserable to look like I've been through a snow flurry. I have tried over-the-counter products, plus several expensive prescription treatments. Please help.
A. Seborrheic dermatitis and bad dandruff are caused by microscopic yeast (fungus) called malassezia. Antifungal dandruff shampoos (Nizoral, Head & amp; Shoulders, Selsun Blue) work for some people, especially if they are rotated every couple of weeks.
Alternative approaches involve soaking the scalp in Listerine or diluted apple-cider vinegar. Leave either on the scalp for five to 10 minutes and then rinse off. For more information on dandruff treatment, we are sending you our Guide to Hair Care. Anyone who would like a copy, please send $2 in check or money order with a long (No. 10), stamped (60 cents), self-addressed envelope to: Graedons' People's Pharmacy, No. H-31, P.O. Box 52027, Durham, NC 27717-2027.
Q. I have had heart bypass surgery and am on Coumadin to thin my blood. I get it tested every month.
I have heard people talk about fish oil as a substitute for Coumadin. Could I take it instead of or along with my anticoagulant?
A. Do not try this. Fish oil cannot substitute for Coumadin. The two together might lead to dangerous bleeding.
Q. I have a student with irritable bowel syndrome. Nothing -- even removing her gallbladder -- gave her relief. She was thinking of dropping out of school.
I told her what I read in your column about coconut, and it worked. Her digestion is normal again. Amazing!
A. Some people report that two Archway Coconut Macaroon cookies daily control chronic diarrhea.
& copy; 2005 King Features Syndicate Inc.