Winter is coming and as the weather is turning cooler, we’re exposed to a variety of everyday illnesses that we don’t usually worry about during summer. While the common cold and other pesky contagious viruses are pretty much unavoidable, there are plenty of things you can do to alleviate some symptoms. This year, try adding herbal tea to your treatment plan.
Fight colds and flus:
Elderberry : have been used for centuries as nature’s cure for the common cold. Some studies have proven that elderberry tea can shorten your cold’s duration, as well as relieve some symptoms.
Eucalyptus : well-known for its ability to combat respiratory problems like congestion.
Echinacea : the herb boosts the immune system and reduces many symptoms of colds and the flu.
Relief for a sore throat:
Slippery Elm : contains a substance called mucilage that turns to gel when mixed with water. That gel provides a natural coating for your throat, which can soothe and protect an inflamed throat.
Licorice : like slippery elm, creates a coating that some people say soothes sore throats.
Turmeric : has potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties
Help with digestive issues:
Peppermint : wonderful for treating an upset stomach, bloating and nausea. Be careful, though, because it can leave heartburn sufferers feeling worse than before.
Ginger : ability to relieve nausea, indigestion and motion sickness, ginger root has been used medicinally for thousands of years.
Chamomile : has carminative properties, which can help to reduce gas and bloating.
Combat headaches:
Ginger : here it is again! Ginger might be as effective as sumatriptan, a commonly prescribed med, when it comes to reducing migraine pain
Feverfew : certain studies have suggested that feverfew can be used to treat and prevent migraines
To calm you down, because mental wellbeing is just as important as physical health:
Kava : with its calming properties, kava is currently being studied by the medical community as a treatment for anxiety disorders. However, kava is a somewhat controversial herb and research into its side effects is ongoing, so exercise caution.
Passionflower : may boost the level of gamma-aminobutyric acid in your brain, which lowers brain activity and may help you relax.
Chamomile : not only reduces stress and anxiety, but it can also help you sleep better.
Boost your energy:
Ginseng: has long been used for its revitalising benefits by herbalists in China. Unrelated but interesting: Some people believe ginseng can also boost fertility.
Ginger : you might as well just stock up on ginger tea. You’re gonna need it for something. Ginger stimulates the circulatory system, helping to clear your mind.
Gingko Biloba: another popular Chinese herb, helps increase blood flow to the brain.
Note: Always check with your doctor before adding any new medicinal herbs to your diet, especially if you’re taking other medications.