Back to Basics

Hoping to avoid a …

Sore throat or cough?

·       Saline rinses  (whether store-bought or homemade) have been shown to mitigate infections and soothe symptoms.

·         Thyme,  incorporated into foods, oils, or syrups, may help in the treatment of coughs and inflammation.

·         Zinc  lozenges or syrups may reduce the duration of a cold when taken within 24 hours of initial symptoms.

·         Other remedies  include elderberry, honey, echinacea, and herbal teas or lozenges.

Congestion?

·         Capsaicin, the active ingredient in chili peppers, may be effective for flushing out irritants and decreasing nasal inflammation.

·         Herbal teas, like chamomile, ginger, or mint, possess antihistamine and anti-inflammatory properties.

·         Menthol is a major component of peppermint and can be taken separately to help soothe sinuses and calm the stomach.

·         Other remedies include vitamin C, ginger extract, and steam inhalation.

Headache?

·         B vitamins, including B1, B6, B9, and B12, may help to relieve and prevent the recurrence of headaches.

·         Electrolytes help in fluid retention and hydration; dehydration is a common cause of headaches.

·         Magnesium regulates nerve functions; studies show that magnesium may help reduce headache frequency and intensity.

·         Other remedies include peppermint oil, omega-3s, CoQ10, and frequent fluid intake.

Stiff or sore muscles?

·         Tart cherry juice is rich in antioxidants and may help to reduce muscle inflammation.

·         Omega-3s  are healthy fats that may help to reduce muscle pain and soreness.

·         Cannabidiol,  or CBD, research has shown some promise in helping to reduce muscle pain.

·         Other remedies  include magnesium, turmeric, collagen, and warm baths.

Weakened immune system?

·         Echinacea  has immunostimulant properties and is antiviral to at least one strain of the common cold.

·         Curcumin,  found in turmeric, has potent antiviral properties and may help reduce the length of colds.

·         Quercetin  interrupts the replicability of some viral cells, which may help in diminishing symptoms and infectiousness.

·         Other remedies include  electrolytes, vitamin drinks, zinc, and medicinal mushrooms.

Fever or chills?

·         Ginseng  may help reduce inflammation, clear airways, and activate the immune system.

·         Melatonin and glycine  are sleep-aids that may help in getting rest when a fever or chill is otherwise disrupting sleep.

·         Garlic  has been found to contain organosulphur compounds that enhance the body’s immune response.

·         Other remedies  include holy basil, elderberry, herbal teas, and bed rest.

Fatigue?

·         Green tea  provides L-theanine and low caffeine, which may help boost energy without causing jitters.

·         Iron  allows red blood cells to distribute oxygen effectively; low iron can lead to chronic fatigue.

·         Vitamin D  deficiencies have been linked to increased fatigue and susceptibility to infection.

·         Other remedies  include vitamin B12, ashwagandha, exercise, and a balanced diet.

Gastrointestinal distress?

·         Digestive enzymes, like protease, lipase, amylase, and lactase, may help reduce bloating and cramping.

·         Pre- and probiotics work together to feed and distribute the helpful micro-organisms that aid in digestion.

·         Psyllium husk  is a source of soluble and insoluble fibre that gently relieves constipation and prevents stomach pain.

 

This article was originally published in the September 2024 issue of alive magazine.


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