Novenas are not the only way of attaining the cool, calm and collectedness of exam success. In recent years, increasing numbers of stressbusters have come on the market.

One of the most popular forms of help for calming exam nerves, which is walking off the shelves and into schoolbags, is Rescue Remedy, a complementary preparation derived from flowers.

Its purpose is to comfort, reassure and calm. Mrs Moira Griffith, author of Flower Power, who has been using the Bach Flower Remedies for over 40 years, says that stressed-out students who have come to her for help have found it "incredible."

The remedy is a combination of five flower essences - cherry plum for uncontrolled temper, clematis for lack of concentration, impatiens for impatience, rock rose for panic and Star of Bethlehem for shock and grief.

In the Thirties, Dr Edward Bach established the system in Britain of treatment based on flower remedies. It acts on the emotions. Rescue Remedy acts so quickly on the emotions that it gives almost immediate results. It turns negative feelings into positive feelings and, so, the sufferer is helped. "It's amazing for any panic or shock, and great for exams," says Mrs Griffith.

Bach Flower Remedies are taken orally - four drops straight or in water. This is particularly useful for students sitting exams over a few hours - they can take a drink of water whenever they need exam calm. "However," Mrs Griffith emphasises, "students should use it when exam nerves start, as soon as they are getting all wound up."

The remedies, which are preserved in brandy, can be taken by people of all ages - there is no danger of overdose or side effects. According to Mrs Griffith, they are "not in the least addictive - it could be put in a baby's bottle if needed." They do not affect prescribed medicine.