By Dee Atkinson, FNIMH
Herbal medicine has a long tradition of treating colds and flu and can also be used as a way to boost your immune system and to try and help prevent a cold developing.
Ninety per cent of all colds and influenza are viral infections but antibiotics are only effective against bacteria and the flu jab only covers you against one of two strains of the flu virus.
Our immune system tackles most bacteria and viruses, so, it is when our immune system is challenged that we start to find problems developing. Cold weather, poor nutrition, too many late nights, too much alcohol, long term medication for other health problems all affect your immunity.
Echinacea is a herb that has been shown to increase resistance to cold and flu. The root extract has specific anti viral activity against the flu virus, and it can be taken throughout the winter. Try Napiers Echinacea Super Plus Compound (note other herbal ingredients in blend) to help the body fight back! This is a licensed herbal remedy used to relieve the symptoms of coughs, colds, sore throats and winter bugs, supporting the immune system. All the benefits of this popular herb are delivered in an easy-to-take, super-boosted liquid extract! Use it at the first sign of catarrh and cold-type symptoms.
Dee Atkinson's Winter Bug Busting TIPS
In my clinic I have a very easy to follow winter remedy plan:
· Keep your immune system boosted with daily Vitamin C – take 1000mg a day as a preventative, and if you think you might be coming down with something, increase this to 1000mg every 2 hours over a 6 hour period. Also take Vitamin D3 and Echinacea Tincture or capsules to prevent the onset of colds.
· If you suspect you’re getting a cold then finely chop a clove of garlic and swallow straight down with a glass of water. This is a great way of reducing mucus and catarrh and can almost stop a winter cold in its tracks.
· If you come down with a cold take Echinacea and Elderflower Compound and an Napiers Singer's Throat Spray
· If colds are persistent and you are run down, take Echinacea Super Plus Compound.
Winter Influenza Tea
Finally, I’d like to share with you a fantastic winter influenza mix which dates back to the early 1900s. Used by Dr Valnet, it has become a popular self help remedy in my practice.
½ stick cinnamon
8 whole cloves
1 tea spoon of rosemary herb
Juice of half a lemon
Honey to taste.
Simmer the cloves and cinnamon in a good cup of water for 3 to four minutes in a covered saucepan. Turn off the heat and add the rosemary. Allow to cool for a few minutes then add lemon and honey. Drink warm, each morning as needed.
Is your immune system particularly struggling to fight off winter bugs? BOOK AN APPOINTMENT with me to investigate how we can support with specific herbs for your condition.