Colds

Colds & how to fight them.

I once had a friend who insisted that the only thing for colds was raw garlic – and loads of it. He would cut up about 8 cloves and eat them washed down with raw parsley which he promised would take away the smell – which it never did. At least it stopped the spread of whatever germs he had as no one would go near him for days.

Other than garlic for colds, a more socially acceptable alternative is the well known Echinacea.  Echinacea is a herbal remedy made from the rather beautiful daisy like plant. Studies have shown that Echinacea can reduce the length & severity of a cold, as well as your susceptibility to getting colds. According to the University of Connecticut it is particularly effective when combined with Vitamin C, - incidences of colds were reduced by 86%. It works by boosting your immune system, with its antiseptic, antiviral & even antifungal properties, though long term use is not recommended.

Indeed, anything that boosts your immune system in the winter months is a good thing when cold viruses are more prevalent. Another natural immune boosting remedy we love as a family is the common  Elderberry.  If you’re lucky enough to live in the country, Autumn is the time of year when nature conveniently provides you with natural anti-oxidents, in the form of Elderberries & Blackberries – just when you need them.

You can make your own elderberry tonic by cooking the berries (raw ones are mildly poisonous) and sweetening with honey.  Or the Sambucol Elderberry tonics come ready made – adult & child variety, which seem to keep us relatively cold & even flu free over winter and taste great too.

As for Homeopathy what has it got to offer in the fight against colds? A flower is the answer – aconite. If this is taken at the very first sign of a cold it can hopefully nip it in the bud, especially if the cold comes on after getting wet or a chill. Personally for me I love Ferrrum Phos, a remedy constituting iron & phosphorus, again it needs to be taken at the very first sign.

First signs are different for everyone – for some a niggling dull headache, others a sore throat, aching muscles, bouts of sneezing – whatever it may be, note it and act.

In any form of treatment for colds the quicker you act the more effective it will be. So whether you opt for vitamins & minerals, herbs or homeopathy, or just a good rest, act as soon as you feel that tingle of a cold coming on.

Disclaimer: The information presented here by Sophia McVeigh is intended for information only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements or homeopathic remedies it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.

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