Saje’s Pocket Pharmacy is among my most treasured possessions. Which is weird because, until about two years ago, I was always the one to reach for extra strength whatever any time something was even mildly wrong with me. These days, I’ll try the alternative option first before reaching for the medicine cabinet. Natural remedies can be so hit or miss, but Vancouver-based Saje has nailed these five concoctions.

Peppermint Halo: I use it as soon as I feel a headache coming on, and, about 80% of the time, it’s successful at preventing it from escalating. How? The warming and cooling action reduces pain and pounding and relaxes the nerves.

Immune: My trusty in-flight companion. I haven’t gotten a single cold from the ten flights I took over the last two months, so I’m attributing my success to eucalyptus and Saje.

Pain Release: I use it on sore spots after a difficult workout, usually my calves. The lavender/eucalyptus/peppermint/chamomile mix works great, although I’m still partial to formulas containing arnica for more serious sports injuries.

Stress Release: I often think no one in the world is as stressed as I am. (Of course, that’s far from true.) I use this almost every single day, often multiple times and I find that I depend on my prescription medication much less. What’s in it? The usual suspects: lavender and chamomile — I could bathe in this stuff.

All in all, I don’t think I could live without this handy little pack.

$49.95 at Saje stores and Saje.ca.