Colds and flu

Keep out the colds

I think that getting a cold is nature’s way of telling you to slow down and look after yourself. Some might even say that we need a cold every year to clean out our systems, a human oil change if you like, and to build up our immune system. Billions of euro are spent every year, giving big pharmaceutical companies our money in the hope of alleviating the discomfort or with a promise of avoiding the colds altogether. I’m not saying that colds, and especially flu isn’t dangerous, far from it, medical intervention is probably needed in severe cases with older people and vulnerable children. The majority of us though could potter on quite happily if we had an understanding boss that would give us a few days off, a bit of TLC at home, a hot water bottle and some natural remedies from the garden.
When I was a nipper, my mother would make me a drink of hot honey and lemon with added glycerine which helped the mixture stick to the sore throat, alleviating the tickly cough that goes with the cold. When I was older I substituted the glycerine with whiskey and added cloves. I was making a mixture for one of my lads last night and substituted the glycerine with carrageen moss . This has the same gloopy consistency that will help to stick the throat.
Let’s have a look at some herbal cold remedies that are close to hand. It might be a bit late/early in the season to have these to hand; we can plan for next year though. Some things will also grow rather poorly in our climate and we might have to source them from the grocers.

Remedies

Rose hip is a great source of vitamin C. Use either the rose hip or wild English dog rose from the hedgerows. Collect and dry the hips and make an infusion(cover with boiling water). Strain and drink the liquid.
Lemon balm. The leaves of lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) can be infused and the liquid taken to relieve both colds and headaches. The drink induces sweating which helps to clean the system.
Lemons and oranges are both considered to be cold remedies and make good drinks or eat raw.
Cider vinegar can be added to drinks or taken on its own
Ginger. For chills, take fresh ginger root. Ginger helps relieve nausea.
Onions. Onion layers attract contagious diseases and were often hung in sickrooms. Today, we know that onions have antibacterial qualities. Boil a whole onion, and afterward, drink the water. You can add a little butter and salt to taste. For prevention leave a peeled raw onion (or a half) in rooms. Don’t leave half onions lying around and use later as old wives say it could be full of germs.
Garlic. Garlic cloves can be eaten raw or added to soup or other foods. Garlic staves off secondary infections.
Chillies. Great for clearing the sinuses as are lots of other hot spices. Make a large curry....
Horseradish. You can find the roots growing wild. A taste of this is said to be one of the best remedies around.
Prunes. Prunes are rich in fibre, vitamins A and B, iron, calcium, and phosphorus.
Sage The Latin word for sage, salvia means to heal,. Sage was considered to be one of four sacred plants by Native Americans. For irritations or inflammation of the throat try gargling with a mixture of sage and apple cider vinegar sweetened with a little local honey.
Thyme. Try a thyme drink when you have a cough or to clear mucus from your chest. It was once used on bandages to prevent infection. Thymol, the active ingredient in thyme is one of the strongest antiseptics known.
Oregano. Oregano has a high thymol content too. It can be used to treat sore throats, coughs and colds.
Rosemary. Rosemary tea can help bring relief for colds, catarrh, wheezing and bronchitis clearing phlegm from the chest. It is useful as a gargle for a sore throat.
Echinacea. Echinacea is a bit of a fair weather plant although I managed to grow some here one year. It is very useful in reducing the symptoms of a cold. You can get the drops from the health shop.

Reduce the risk

I tend to go around not touching anything and waving my anti bacterial wand everywhere. Here are some other things you could do to stop the spread of the viruses:
Eat lots of fruits with high vitamin C content as well as veggies and grains which cleanse your system.
Wash your hands often, with lots of soap and water.
Use disposable hankies instead of cloth ones. If you’re in a public restroom, shut the taps off with a paper towel ,push the door open with your shoulder or use the paper towel to turn the handle.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you sneeze or cough
Don't shake hands or touch surfaces and then bring your fingers to your nose,eyes or face.
Eat lots of fruits with high vitamin C content as well as veggies and grains which cleanse your system.
If you can, take it easy as soon as symptoms develop.
Don't bite your nails; it spreads germs.
Don't share food or drinks, even a taste.
When in doubt, hug instead of kiss.
Drink plenty of liquids, especially fresh pure water.
Get plenty of sleep. Go to bed early.
Cut back on sugars and alcoholic drinks.
Don't share towels.
Stay at home if possible.

Usual disclaimer: It is important that only minor problems are self-treated. If an ailment is severe or persists, you should seek help from a qualified medical practitioner.