Just read the letter about the woman who wanted to divorce her husband for urinating in the shower, and I think I can go her one better. I would, if it weren't for my religious beliefs and the fact that I'd be facing prison time, shoot my husband dead for his deliberate annoyance.

Not only does he urinate in the shower, but he refuses to wash with a cloth. He digs his crevices with his fingers, scrubs his privates with his hands to the point of ejaculation and then wonders why he isn't allowed to touch me or set foot in the kitchen.

I can't help but imagine there could be feces crammed under his fungus-embedded fingers. –Don't suggest Vicks for his fingernail and toenail fungus. I've already cut your articles from the paper and printed info from the computer, but he won't even give it a try. A husband or wife who continues in a behaviour that repulses or dismays their spouse is at best selfish and more than likely getting some gratification out of annoying their partner. Believe me, my husband would be taking his last breath on this earth if there were to be no consequences in my life here or in the hereafter. As for divorce, I've got too much time and money wrapped up in him and just pray I'll outlive the fungus-infected, disgusting, repulsive creep. 'Til death, which I hope is soon for him, do us part.

You outlined quite a problem that I'm not going to fix. However, I don't understand your objection to your husband's cleaning technique. Cloth is not really needed.

You are not going to change his behavior without help. I urge you to get marriage counselling. While it may not solve your problem, at least it might help you cope with a difficult situation. If your husband refuses to go, I recommend that you go without him. Perhaps, as your husband sees your positive changes, he will change and start going with you. Your counsellor need not be a doctor. You mentioned your religious beliefs. Maybe someone within your church, such as a religious leader, can offer options or even counselling services.

As a regular reader and an avid advocate, I ask that you offer your opinion about using licorice as a laxative.

Not a good idea. Licorice can cause hypertension and worsen high blood pressure. I advise my patients to avoid it, putting in its place an over-the-counter laxative, such as milk of magnesia and others. For those who wish to use only natural substances, I recommend my colon cocktail, which consists of equal portions of bran, prune juice and applesauce (one to two tablespoons each morning). Another option is four ounces of hot prune juice.