Dear Pharmacist, My brother is on a gluten free diet now and lost a lot of weight. He’s razzing me to join him in his gluten free diet, but I don’t see the point unless you have irritable bowel syndrome (that’s why he did it). I really like my pizza and beer too! I read you every week, are there other health benefits? --M.J., Hollywood, Florida

My 5-year-old daughter has developed a persistent cough. Can you recommend something to help? --L.E., Seattle, Washington

Dear Pharmacist, My 88 year old mother-in-law takes an herb from a flower. It’s called Vinpocetine. She is as sharp as a tack and has the memory of a 20 year old. She credits this flower pill for it. I’m only 50 and I can’t remember certain words or events in my own life. Have you heard of this, and can it help everyone with memory loss? --S.S., Newark, NJ

Dear Pharmacist, My teenage daughter downs several diet sodas a day. She insists they’re a healthy, weight-loss alternative to regular sodas. Should I be concerned? --E.L., Phoenix, Arizona

Dear Pharmacist, My doctor is referring me to a psychologist because I’m having so many bad dreams. These are new for me, and while I believe that dreams are “telling” I can’t help but wonder if it’s something I’m taking. In the last 6 months, I’ve began taking three new prescriptions. Could my drugs have any bearing on my sleep or dream state? --T.H., Denver, Colorado

Dear Readers: Recently, I asked my facebook fans to share their favorite folk remedies. These homegrown tips are not intended to take the place of your physician's advice, nor does my printing them imply effectiveness. So don't email me if you wind up smelling like lasagna or a speed stick! Here is a sampling of the submissions:

Dear Pharmacist, My husband and I would like to have a child soon. My sister’s little boy has autism, so I’m naturally concerned for my prenatal care and pregnancy. Is there any way to reduce my risk of having a child with autism? --C.J., Orlando, Florida

Dear Pharmacist, I have high blood pressure and heart disease. I’m worried that I’m not doing enough. Do you have any recommendations? --K.S., Denver, Colorado

Dear Pharmacist, It seems my kids spend the summer getting bumped and bruised. Can you recommend a natural remedy to treat all those boo boos? --P.E., Clackamus, Oregon

Dear Pharmacist, The last time I went to the pharmacy, I had to wait 25 minutes to get my prescription filled. Why in the world does it take so long to put a few pills in a bottle? --B.S., Apopka, Florida