January health blues?

Phew, it’s official, ‘Blue Monday’ has passed for another year. Considered the years most depressing date surely things can only get better from here??

Well, considering the amount of people suffering with coughs, colds and flu like symptoms this winter, maybe not. Also, a lack of daylight hours means we are often left feeling lethargic and depressed making us more susceptible to getting ill. But, there is still hope! Here are some natural health pointers to keep your health in tip-top condition during the harsh winter months.

Don’t panic, it’s nearly Spring…

Firstly start by taking a good multi-vitamin daily (Biocare, Solgar and Higher Nature are all good quality brands) and also take an extra 1000mg of vitamin C daily, which is a great antioxidant and will help boost your immune system.

Try to eat a wide variety of fruit and vegetables that are in season where possible and avoid processed foods.

Get plenty of sleep as much of our bodies healing happens during sleep. If you are struggling to get enough sleep Homeopathic remedies and/or flower essences can be very useful to help quieten the mind (contact me for more information).

Homeopathy – Homoeopathy treats the whole person not the disease – using the well-established and proven laws of similars. A gentle form of healing favoured by the Royal Family. Remedies can be found in most large pharmacies such as Boots or can be ordered directly from Nelsons, Helios or Ainsworth Homeopathic Pharmacies, all of whom are based in London. Remedies are dissolved directly on the tongue and ideally taken 10 minutes either side of food or drink.

At the first signs of flu or cold like symptoms…

Drink plenty of fluids! Lemon and ginger tea with a teaspoon of Active Manuka Honey mixed in is particularly useful as it has powerful, natural, antibiotic and antiseptic properties. Then choose one of the following homeopathic remedies that most closely match your symptoms and take 6 doses on day one followed by 1 pill 3 times a day for the next 3-5 days, if you are unsure you can always alternate the remedy Anas Barb with either Aconite or Ferrum Phos:

Anas Barb 200c – for feeling achy, slightly feverish and worn out.  It is most effective if taken within 48 hours of the onset of the flu. It can also be used as a preventative.

Aconite 30c or 200c – for a sudden high fever, for the first stages of cold or flu caused by being exposed to cold dry winds, being shocked or frightened.  You may also have a burning thirst for cold drinks; your nose may be stuffed up with tingling and burning with or without sneezing.  A throbbing head, dry throat and cough.

Ferrum Phos 30c or 200c – for a high fever with flushed blotches on face or paleness, a less intense onset, feeling irritable, talkative, with a sore throat, coughing, headache.  Symptoms are generally worse on the right side, at night and or late afternoon.  They generally feel better for a cold compress and lying down.

Other herbs and supplements to consider

Olive Leaf Extract – Scientific research has shown that the active ingredient in Olive Leaf Extract – Oleuropein, has powerful healing properties that fight the bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites that cause infection and disease. It is a natural antioxidant and can be a safe and effective alternative to antibiotics. Highly beneficial for all types of infection it is also a non-toxic way to strengthen your immunity.

Vitamin D – Vitamin D is perhaps the single most underrated nutrient in the world of nutrition. That’s probably because it’s free; your body makes it when sunlight touches your skin. During winter months we often become deficient in Vitamin D so it may be beneficial to take it as a supplement. It is vital for the immune system and has also been linked with helping prevent cancer, osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis and even depression.

And remember to keep smiling! 🙂

Until next time, have a happy, healthy week.

Claire Zarb LCPH
t: +44 (0)7582 269569
e: claire@clairezarb.com
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