Herbs to beat the Winter Chills

Medical Herbalist Sarah Beard helps us beat the winter chills.

Good examples of herbs that grow through winter are Bay leaf, Chervil, Marjoram and Parsley, Origanum, Rosemary, Sage, and Thyme. It is no coincidence that the more hardy herbs have a robust taste suitable for use in winter comfort food while also having strong medicinal properties for treating winter ailments like coughs, colds, sore throats, sinusitis, fevers and bronchitis.

As children go back to school and the autumn comes upon us, boosting the immune system would seem a sensible thing to do. The best thing is to eat sensibly whilst getting plenty of sleep and exercise. At the first signs of a cold rather than buying expensive cold and flu remedies reach for simple home remedies and make the most of what nature has given us.

Tea for sore throats:

• A few sprigs of fresh sage or 1 tsp of dried
• A few sprigs of thyme
• Fresh ginger (optional)
• 1cup or 250ml hot water

Method – Cover the herbs in hot (not boiling) water. Cover the cup (or teapot) and leave to steep for 2-4 minutes and strain.

Teas can be taken hot or cold so make up batch and keep for up to two days in the ‘fridge. Vary amounts until you get a taste that suits.

Sage and thyme tea gargled at the first signs of a sore throat can help reduce the symptoms and relieve the discomfort. A little glycerine added helps coat the linings of the throat increasing the soothing power of these garden herbs. Add a little fresh or dried ginger for some extra warmth.

The traditional cold and flu tea is made of equal parts of:

• Peppermint (Mentha piperita),
• Yarrow (Achillea millefolium), and
• Elderflower (Sambucus nigra).

Traditionally thought of as the magic cure-all this tea addresses all the elements present at the beginning of a cold. Peppermint is the decongestant; yarrow helps reduce fever and elderflower helps to relieve the runny nose.

Echinacea is probably the most self-prescribed herb but unfortunately it is rarely taken in an effective dose. It is a good immune system herb and to get the best results look for the root, if it makes your tongue tingle then you have a good quality.

Tablets, capsules or tincture are equally effective. Supplements shouldn’t be necessary with a good diet but extra Vitamin C and zinc may be of benefit (do not take zinc  supplements for longer than 2 weeks without the advice of a qualified practitioner).

Dietary sources of zinc include seeds (especially pumpkin), cheddar cheese, beef, wholemeal bread and shellfish. A diet rich in fresh fruit and vegetables should ensure an adequate intake of Vitamin C.

For all your herbs and supplements look out for:

SIMPLY HERBS at Pulborough Farmers Market on the last Saturday of the month or ring 01903 746829 for orders and advice.
                        
To learn more about using herbs at home then how about a talk or workshop?
Call 01903 746829 for further information

NEW WEBSITE:  herbalmedicine4u.co.uk

Remember if symptoms persist consult your Herbalist, Doctor or Pharmacist

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