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p33
 As the days get colder and shorter, plants retreat under
a blanket of fallen leaves, storing energy as root or seed until the warmth of spring
reawakens them. Meanwhile, in the hustle and bustle of the human world, it's business as
usual.
It's time to protect against the familiar ailments that accompany the darker winter
months. Cold, damp and reduced daylight can make the body more susceptible to infections
and exaggerate symptoms of existing health problems. Aches and pains are more pronounced,
sinusitis incidences increase and circulation slows as blood becomes thicker. Prevention
is better than cure, so priorities are to feed and maintain the immune system and ensure
the blood is flowing freely. Eat natural, energy-packed foods, use plenty of ginger,
cayenne and others and cut down on white sugar as this lowers immunity.
An excellent daily maintenance drink is made by simmering a teaspoon each of Burdock,
Siberian ginseng and Dandelion roots in a half pint of water for 15 minutes. Taken up to
three times a day it provides deep fortification and balances blood sugar levels. Add
Yellow dock for an iron boost. A tea made with a teaspoon each of Nettle, Raspberry leaves
and Alfalfa is loaded with iron, calcium and other nutrients a quick tasty way of
adding extra goodness to your diet.
Raw garlic has a powerful strengthening effect on the immune system. It's also anti-viral
and thins and cleans the blood. It forms part of a warming winter tonic. Prepare by
chopping equal amounts of fresh garlic, ginger, chillies, white onions and horseradish and
infuse in a large jar of cider vinegar for a few weeks. When it's ready, blend in a
liquidiser and store in the fridge. 2/3 teaspoons a day will keep infections away, ease
sinusitis and alleviate the pain of arthritis and rheumatism.
The root of Golden seal is a stimulating immune tonic, which strengthens digestion and
circulation, is a strong natural antibiotic and makes an excellent eyewash for
conjunctivitis and sticky eyes. Echinacea is another immuno- stimulant, which in smaller
doses can be used as a preventative. At the first signs of any infection, a teaspoon of
the tincture with a few drops of Propolis and Myrrh tinctures will give an instant boost
and, if repeated every few hours, will stop most things colds, flu, sore throat and
swollen glands in their tracks. If infection does take hold, use Boneset, Yarrow and
Elder flower tea to speed recovery. Boneset is second to none for relieving the aches and
pains of flu.
Steam inhalations of Eucalyptus, Pine and Thyme essential oils will disinfect the lungs
and loosen catarrh in the nasal passages. A decoction (boiled tea) of Marshmallow root,
Liquorice root and Wild cherry bark makes an effective cough remedy and will appeal to
children, if sweetened with honey. When you feel like the weather is closing in on you, St
Johns Wort will deal with depression, ease the nerves and lift the spirits. Sunshine will
do the same, so wrap up warm and go for a walk to soak up some Vitamin D. Happy people
make happy healthy bodies. Enjoy the season!
Deanna practises Herbal Medicine and Iridology in Stoke Newington. Telephone 020 7503 4672
or e-mail deanna.m@virgin.net
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