I’ve never been a “natural remedy” kind of girl. With a Medicine Man for an uncle, I’ve always relied on pharmaceuticals to cure my ills and ease my pain — both physical and mental.

Lately, however, I’ve found friends who rely solely on natural healing, on non-prescription relief, on homeopathic treatment, and I’ve become intrigued.

Don’t misunderstand — I still love a good Z-Pak when the occasion arises. But I’ve also begun to explore some other options — Yoga, meditation, vitamin therapy, and most recently, calcium and Vitamin D supplements. (Thanks, Connie, for scaring the crap out of me and my crumbling bones.)

This Big Life Change has been a bit emotional. (Have I mentioned that before?) And along with the highest of highs has come the dark depths of extended, dramatic, swollen-eye crying. And because Jenny asked nicely, I’m no longer taking daily doses of prescription meds to help me out. And because she’s concerned for my well-being — and the well-being of my husband and kids — she gave me a gift.

Cherry Plum.

The label reads, “Dr. Edward Bach stated Cherry Plum helps you act rationally and think clearly with a calm and balanced mind when you fear losing control.” Indications? “For relief of naturally occurring nervous tension.”

My kids are pretty sure Dr. Edward Bach developed that remedy exclusively for me. In fact, they think it should be called “The Katrina” instead of “Cherry Plum.”

I’m supposed to take 4 drops a maximum of 4 times a day. I told Jenny it was almost gone and she replied, “Drops, Katrina, not shots. You’re supposed to take it in DROPS.”

If she’d seen me Thursday night, she would have given me a 2-liter.

It’s all about survival over here right now. Cherry Plum survival.