News — #immunebooster

These natural home remedies may be good essentials to have in your home during the next few months, not only because of the COVID-19 spread, but also because it is nearing colder weather which means colds and respiratory viruses will be more common (of course if you do get sick, it is always best to see your GP first, especially with the current situation right now). 

Some research suggests that the following can help to treat respiratory viruses that may be responsible for excess mucus:

Berries

Berries contain a flavonoid called anthocyanins, which are beneficial for lung health. Eat berries fresh with yoghurt, on top of cereal or even in salads.

Ginseng

Ginseng is an Asian plant which is very anti-inflammatory. Studies have found it to have a protective effect against acute respiratory illnesses and the potential to reduce the severity and scores of symptoms. You can take ginseng in supplement form or in a tonic.

Guava

Guava is rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, potassium and fibre. Guava has found to be effective for control of different respiratory viruses. Guava is super yummy and sweet and you can eat it fresh.  

Echinacea

Echinacea is a plant herb loaded with antioxidants, as well as compounds called alkamides, which further enhance antioxidant activity. Evidence has found that Echinacea can help your immune system fight off respiratory viruses and colds, helping to make the recovery process shorter. Echinacea can be taken in supplement form.  

Licorice root

Licorice root helps the body to produce healthy mucus, which helps support the healthy functioning of your respiratory system. You can consume it in the form of tea, which can usually be found at your local health store.

Pomegranate

Pomegranate juice contains potent antioxidant power, as well as being antibacterial and antiviral. You can eat pomegranate fresh by breaking it open and consuming the seeds.

Zinc – take a supplement

Zinc has been shown to stop certain viruses from lodging in the mucus membranes of the throat and nose. You can take zinc in supplement form.

Drink plenty of water at room temperature – not ice cold, as it can make the mucus in your sinuses thicker, and more difficult to pass. A glass of warm water or a cup of tea is a good way to get your water intake in when you’re sick.

(This information is general only.  Please speak to your healthcare professional prior to taking multiple new supplements).

In these times of immune vigilance due to the Coronavirus, we wanted to talk a little bit about the immune system and natural immune boosters. It seems crucial during this time to emphasise the importance of taking a step back and remembering the basics of what makes us well – like consuming the full spectrum of colourful wholefoods, regular physical activity, relaxation and good quality sleep.

In times of panic, a lot of people forget about these simple basics and measures and how powerful they can be. They help to strengthen our immune systems, which in turn helps to fight off and subdue pathogens, infections, diseases, free radicals, and diseased cells.

We are all immunologically unique, and if we weren’t, we would have all died off a long while ago! Your immune system is amazing, it fights illness and infection, and it heals and repairs you.

It is greatly affected by everything you are exposed to during your life, including the foods you eat, your living environments, quality of sleep, medications, and your gut microbiome (your gut is directly linked to your immune system so we need to take proper care of it!)

Prebiotics like onions, raw garlic and cabbage, and probiotics like kimchi, pickled vegetables and yoghurt add beneficial bacteria and help to balance your gut.  

Nature has created some powerful foods and spices that can help support you. So instead of just stocking up on toilet paper or masks next time you shop online, stock up on "made for you nutrition", with wholesome meal delivery. 

Yes, practice good hygiene (wash your hands, cover your face) but also remember the basics of keeping yourself healthy, because basically you improve your chances of survival if you are healthier.

Healthy eats you can add to your diet now for an extra immune system boost:

• Lots of fresh greens – think kale, spinach, silver beat, bok choy, broccoli, green beans, peas
• Vitamin C rich foods or supplements (a vital antioxidant and crucial for the immune system) – vitamin C is abundant in lots of fruits and veggies, lemon, lime, cranberries, kale
• Beta glucans from mushrooms or yeast
• Eat and cook with antimicrobial herbs, for example sprinkle these herbs on virtually everything – chicken, turkey, vegetarian dishes etc.
  *use fresh versions for higher potency, although dried is an option too
  • Lots of garlic – chop up and sauté with any dish (or use garlic infused oil if you are on a low FODMAP plan)
  • Thyme
  • Oregano
  • Sage
  • Basil
  • Rosemary
  • Chilli
  • Ginger is a warming herb with anti-inflammatory properties – add to smoothies, to porridge, crush up fresh ginger in hot water with lemon
• Also remember: minimally processed foods and minimal sugar and refined carbs will also help to reduce the burden on your system.