There are several natural remedies that help for common ailments that we all experience over time. Below are a few popular remedies that can be helpful.
Colds and Flu:
Olive Leaf
Olive leaf extract has potent anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties so is a great natural treatment for colds and flus. It is available in tablet, or tincture forms as well as in herbal teas.
Echinacea
Echinacea is commonly used to help with immune function. It can also be used to treat viral infections and is good as a short-term remedy as needed.
Honey
Honey contains amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It has anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, antidepressant, anti-convulsant and anti-anxiety benefits. Honey can also be used to promote wound healing. It is effective in treating coughs and sore throats.
Ginger
Ginger is rich in beneficial compounds that promote health and wellbeing. It has anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties and is also a great antioxidant. Ginger can be used for nausea and as a digestive aid as well.
Lemon
Citrus fruits such as lemon are high in vitamin C, which is an important antioxidant that helps to protect out cells from free radical damage. A lack of vitamin C can increase our susceptibility to infections. Drinking a tea with lemon, ginger and honey can be very soothing if you have a cold or flu.
Aches and Pains:
Curcumin
Turmeric is a spice with several healthy properties. It is the spice that gives curry its yellow flavor and its medicinal benefits come from the active ingredient compounds called curcuminoids. Curcumin and Turmeric are often spoken of interchangeably as they are in effect the same plant, but the difference is that the curcumin extract is the healing part. Turmeric only contains about 3% curcumin.
The anti-inflammatory effects of curcumin have been shown to be beneficial for the brain and body. It can be beneficial for managing the pain associated with arthritis so can be used in the place of anti-inflammatory medication or if medication is necessary, can reduce the medication requirements. It is good for inflammation in the gut as well and unlike anti-inflammatories doesn’t irritate the gut lining.
Boswellia
Boswellia, which is also called Indian frankincense, is a herbal extract that is used to treat chronic inflammatory illnesses. It has anti-inflammatory properties so can be used for joint aches and pains. If combined with curcumin it provides a very effective alternative to anti-inflammatory medications.
Magnesium Oil or Epsom Salts Baths
Low levels of magnesium can result in cramps and increased joint pain. Epsom salts, which is a form of magnesium, can be added to your bath to provide relief from pain and inflammation in your body. It is also a good detoxifier and can help improve sleep. Alternatively, magnesium oil can be applied topically to the body instead.
Headaches
Feverfew
Feverfew is a plant in the daisy family that has been used to help prevent headaches and migraines. It can be taken daily in a capsule form to reduce the frequency and severity of migraines.
Listen to my interview with Brad Kirsten from Radio Cape Pulpit on 12 May 2022 to learn more. Listen to my next interview on Thursday at 7.45am