Winter weather brings pretty, shimmering snow, evenings inside snuggling to stay warm,
and, often, it signals illness: flus, coughs, colds, and generally feeling run down. Here is a list of natural remedies to keep in your “Winter Kit” so that you can stay healthy all through the season.
VS-C
This Chinese blend is a top favorite for working against viruses and keeping the immune system healthy. With herbs like Dandelion, Cinnamon, Ginseng, and more, it creates an unfavorable environment for viruses, helps proper microbial balance, supports detoxification, and promotes a healthy respiratory tract. Take 2-3 capsules per day during the season for an added immune system boost.
Bronchial Formula, Ayurvedic
The Bronchial Formula is a blend of herbs used in the ancient health science of India, known as Ayurveda. These herbs work together to support the respiratory system, especially nourishing the lungs and bronchi to strengthen them against microorganisms, pollutants, pollens, and dust. This is a great lend to consider for a cough that comes every winter or for other illnesses, like bronchitis. Take 4 -6 capsules per day if experiencing symptoms for improvement.
Vitamin C
This is a very important vitamin, especially to the immune system! It prevents against free radical damage with its antioxidant properties, aids in collagen production, and supports tissue development. It also is a natural anti-inflammatory. Take between 3000 and 5000 mg daily to support the immune system.
Thieves Essential Oil Blend
Used by thieves in England to protect them from the plague when stealing from the sick, this oil blend has highly anti-viral and antiseptic properties that help protect against flu, colds, sore throats, strep, sinus infections, pneumonia, bronchitis, and more. It is a blend of Clove, Lemon, Cinnamon, Eucalyptus, and Rosemary, and 1-2 drops can be applied on the bottom of each foot, or in a spray bottle, it can be sprayed around you or your house. This one is especially good for children going to school or daycare.
Thieves Lozenges
As a lozenge, the oils in the blend Thieves, along with lemon, orange, peppermint, and natural sweeteners combine to create germ fighting ability that soothes sore throats.
Astragalus
This herb has been used in Chinese medicine since ancient times. It is valued for its ability to stimulate the immune system in many ways. One way it works is that it promotes the production of stem cells in the bone marrow and lymph tissue and encourages their development into active immune cells. It also triggers immune cells to go from a “resting” state into a state of heightened activity. This herb helps activate T cells and natural killer cells and promotes respiratory function. Take 2-3 capsules daily to maintain a healthy immune system.
Echinacea
This single herb is well known for its ability to boost the immune system and shorten the
duration of colds, and because of these reasons, it is a winter must-have! Echinacea provides immune defense by creating an unfriendly environment for bacteria to live in and by purifying the blood. If you feel like you are coming down with something, take 1-2 capsules every few hours until you feel back to your “normal” self again. Now, you have some ideas of what to take and keep on hand to boost your immune system so that you can enjoy the winter season in all of its snowy beauty!
If you have more specific concerns, call and schedule an appointment with one of the naturopaths at herbs etc by calling (989) 773-3636.
