It happens to everyone, sometimes several times a year.  Perhaps that’s why it’s called the common cold. Over- the -counter medication isn’t the only answer.

A cold, can in fact be a good opportunity for our bodies to have a spring clean. Clearing out the bugs and bacteria we filter every day. By strengthening your immune system you can be less likely to succumb to frequent colds or flu.

Taste the rainbow

Eating plenty of fresh fruit and veg is the first step to ensuring a strong immune system. Supplementing your diet with a daily multivitamin will also help fill the gaps where your diet falls short. If you do become sick, extra vitamin C can reduce the symptoms and duration of colds and flu.

Extra garlic please!
Garlic can prevent infection from taking hold and spreading. Aim for a daily serving of two raw cloves or the equivalent in capsules.  Follow with a sprig of parsley for fresh breath.

Echinacea (purpurea)

Echinacea is commonly referred to as Nature’s antibiotic. It works with the body’s natural ability to fight infection.

Get the good bacteria

Eat live yoghurt or take pro-biotoics, e.g. acidophilus. This will limit the growth of harmful bacteria, promote good digestion and increase resistance to infection.

Have a tea party
Jump-starting your immune system each morning with a pot of black or green tea has been found to significantly increase your levels of interferon, the cold and virus fighting chemical.

Lather Up
Simply washing your hands frequently can increase your health odds even more. Use warm water and soap, avoid touching your mouth, nose and eyes to prevent the virus from entering your system.

Skin brushing

Skin brushing helps your lymph system to clear toxins. Dry off after your shower or bath take a skin brush and make sweeping stokes from your feet, upwards towards your heart.

Run away
Exercising for 30 to 60 minutes 3 times a week is a great way to reduce stress and its harmful effects on the immune system. It has been estimated that 90 percent of illness and disease is stress related.

Have a laugh and relax…

Colds always seem to appear in times of heavy stress. So take time to have a dance, play football, throw a dinner party, walk in the park - what ever it is that you enjoy.

Sleep on it
It is essential to get a good night’s sleep. An overly tired body has less strength to fight off infections.

Homeopathy

It can help boost your immunity, break patterns of illness and improve your general health. Remedies are safe, non-toxic, non addictive and can be taken alongside conventional medication. Remedies are individually prescribed for you.

Call me, Julia Wilson (RSHom),  your local homeopath at Archway House Natural Health Centre, Market Harborough on 01858 410820, for a complementary chat to find out how homeopathy can work for you. 

Disclaimer: nothing contained in this article should be taken as individual medical advice or as a substitute for consulting your healthcare practitioner