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Thursday, November 12, 2026Nov 12

Consumer Watch: Utilizing everyday items for other purposes

Consumer Watch Money Paying Business
Consumer Watch Money Paying Business Consumer Watch Money Paying Business
photo Ellen Phillips

So many readers responded to last summer’s ideas to utilize everyday items for other purposes, I decided to run another column with additional tips, thanks to Bottom Line Personal. Some may help get us all through this week’s Thanksgiving festivities.

Health issues

– To cure hiccups, slowly dissolve a teaspoon of sugar in your mouth and let it slide down your throat. Or touch a Q-tip to the uvula – that small piece of flesh that hangs in the back of your throat.

– Scallions help a stuffy nose. Overuse of OTC nasal sprays can cause increased congestion.Instead, cut the top fronds off two scallions and very gently place the thick white root part into each nostril. (Never shove it high up.) Your nose should start to clear in one minute.

Plant rescue