We don’t pay much attention to our respiratory system except when we encounter problems. According to nationalgeographic.com, we take an average of 22,000 breaths a day. When these thousands of breaths become deficient, we look for solutions. Some are very useful.
Here are seven natural remedies to face the challenges that arise especially in the winter season:
1. Astragalus
Astragalus is a plant of the Leguminosae family, known since ancient times as an immune tonic and ally in the fight against disease. Some natural remedies are best used at the first signs of illness, but astragalus works best as a preventative. Laboratory studies claim that astragalus root extract improves white blood cell function by increasing the level of antibodies. Astragalus may also increase levels of interferons, proteins that activate the immune system that fight off viral infections and cancers. These benefits help prevent upper respiratory infections, especially in people prone to colds and flu. Use astragalus as a tea, capsule or tincture, advises nationalgeographic.com.
Caution: Pregnant or nursing women should not use Astragalus root. Those with autoimmune diseases should consult their physician before use.
2. Echinacea
This wild flower has many health benefits. One of the most studied herbs, echinacea has earned a reputation for its many positive effects on the immune system. Different chemical compounds in echinacea vary between the three plant species, plant parts and extraction techniques: polysaccharides, glycoproteins and alkylamides all have medicinal effects that strengthen the immune system and inhibit viruses and bacteria. Take adequate doses of a quality product at the first sign of illness. Ingest as a tea, tincture, or capsule.
Warning: Do not take echinacea if you have tuberculosis, leukemia, diabetes, connective tissue disorders, multiple sclerosis, HIV or AIDS, autoimmune disorders, or liver disease. In rare cases, echinacea can cause allergic reactions.
3. The shock
The juice is rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. Studies have found that elderberry syrup can help shorten the duration of cold and flu symptoms. Elderberry preparations can also reduce swelling of the mucous membranes – and thus relieve nasal and sinus congestion – and reduce sneezing, itching and other allergy symptoms. Use as syrup or pills.
4. Big mallow
Floating in hot cocoa or melting over a campfire, marshmallows are a favorite sweet of many of us. These delicacies actually have their roots in a natural remedy made from the roots and leaves of the mallow plant. The plant contains polysaccharides, a natural mucilage that soothes the mucous membranes irritated by sore throats, coughs and indigestion. It can also soothe dry, cracked skin when applied topically. It is drunk as a tea or as an infusion.
Warning: none.
5. The candlestick
The gray-green leaves and stems of this plant are used to relieve the symptoms of bronchitis, coughs, and other throat conditions, acting as both an expectorant and soothing herb for irritated respiratory tissue. Consuming tea from the leaves or chenille blossoms soothes the throat and is a very ancient remedy for respiratory problems. Various parts are used, including the leaves, flowers and roots. Fenugreek has a long history of medicinal use and remains a respected remedy in herbal medicine today. Ingest as an infusion from the leaves or flowers.
Warning: Fenugreek seeds are toxic and should not be part of any extract, capsule or tea.
6. Bite
Geraniums, commonly known as geraniums, have a strong tradition of medicinal use in Africa. According to nationalgeographic.com, Pelargonium sidoides – known in modern herbalism simply as pelargonium – has been a part of traditional Zulu, Xhosa, Basotho and Mfengu healing for centuries. The root is recommended to help reduce the symptoms of respiratory infections such as coughs, colds, sore throats, pneumonia, tonsillitis and acute sinusitis, and to prevent secondary infections such as chronic bronchitis. It is often used as an alternative to antibiotics in some of these conditions. Pelargonium sidoides is sold as an extract, pills and tinctures.
Caution: Some users report mild stomach upset, skin rashes, and nervous system disturbances. Avoid the herb if you’re on blood thinning medications
7. Thyme
Like sage, thyme is one of many fragrant herbs that double as medicine. The aromatic compounds in thyme help relieve coughs, probably in two different ways. Thyme is antispasmodic and expectorant, which means that the herb not only soothes a cough but also helps clear bronchial mucus. It is also antibacterial and antiviral. Many of the chemicals in thyme, including thymol and carvacrol, are responsible for its flavor, expectorant effects, and inhibition of bacteria, viruses, and fungi. Today thyme is recommended for coughs, colds, flu, bronchitis and asthma. The herb is also used for digestive complaints, as thyme has a relaxing effect on the smooth muscles of the stomach and intestines. Take thyme tea as needed for cough.
Caution: Thyme should be avoided by those with hormone sensitive conditions.
