5 HERBS TO HELP FIGHT OFF COLDS & FLU VIWE NDONGENI-NTLEBI
SKIN CARE
ROSEMARY Rosemary has strong anti-inflammatory properties and it might also have antidepressant properties. A 2018 study looked at mice under stressful conditions and found mice that had received rosemary displayed less depressive symptoms than those without the rosemary. While we do not yet know if eating rosemary will alleviate depression caused in humans, we do know that eating a variety of delicious food will at the very least make our day more enjoyable. Include rosemary as part of your meal preparation to up flavour and boost antioxidant levels.
WINTER, with its inclement weather and uptick of flu and colds, can wreak much havoc on your health. Instead of consigning yourself to the sniffles and sneezes this season, get proactive about your wellness and help your body keep colds at bay. Here are five types of herbs, recommended by a registered dietitian and Association for Dietetics in South Africa spokesperson Nathalie Mat, to support your health this winter.
PARSLEY This popular herb is surprisingly high in vitamin C. It is also a source of vitamin A and vitamin K (which helps regulate the clotting of blood). During illness, our body produces radicals while battling foreign bacteria. Parsley contains antioxidants that help to reduce the damage caused by free radicals.
PEPPERMINT In winter, Mat finds that many people drink tea, coffee and hot chocolate instead of water. But there is a calming alternative in the form of peppermint or tea. You can chop a few leaves of mint into a cup and allow the flavour to infuse, no need for teabags. Not only is this a caffeine-free refreshing drink, but peppermint has also long been used to ease digestion. Research shows benefits of peppermint in people with irritable bowel syndrome, indigestion and abdominal pain in children. Please note that peppermint oil in the essential oil form is not advised for consumption, please consult a health professional before consuming any such oils.
WHEN YOU’RE ILL GERRY CUPIDO
LET’S fact it, at some point or other, most of us have had the flu. Your body aches and you’re constantly blowing your nose which leaves you looking like Bobo the Clown, with sad droopy eyes to match. You’re cold and sweaty at the same time. It’s an all-round nightmare which leaves you feeling like you’re at death’s door and looking like it too. During this time, skin really takes its toll. But here are a few ways you can look after your skin while you battle the flu.
GARLIC Garlic is not strictly speaking a herb as the bulb is used as opposed to the leaf of the plant. This wonderfully versatile aromatic food has been well studied for it’s antifungal and antibacterial properties. Some studies have even demonstrated that antibiotic-resistant organisms can be killed by high doses of garlic. If you are trying to ward off illness, garlic is a great friend to add to your evening meals. Please note that very high doses of garlic in food can cause stomach upset (and possibly an upset partner too). So, like most things, moderation is recommended.
KEEP YOUR HAND LOTION CLOSE PROTECT YOUR NOSE
TURMERIC The active ingredient in Tumeric is called curcumin. This compound is available in many supplements because it is recognised as a powerful antioxidant. It is also a very big molecule that is not easily absorbed. One of the best ways to improve absorption is to make sure the curcumin is taken with fat. It is even better absorbed in the presence of compounds found in black pepper which increase blood flow to the digestive tract. As a dietitian, Mat strongly advocates for eating a balanced diet and encourages the intake of herbs as part of a meal rather than as a supplement. Add an extra teaspoon of turmeric while making your curry to give your immune system in check.
Sanitise, sanitise, sanitise. You’re probably doing a whole lot of that during the day to contain your germs and protect your family. This, however, does lead to dry hands. So keep your lotion next to you at all times.
Tissues have become an extension of your hands. They never leave your side. And they’re constantly attacking your nose, leaving it red and dry. This is where Vaseline becomes your best friend. Protect the skin on your nose by constantly applying a layer of the jelly. Pay special attention to areas that tend to get red and cracked. Steam is great for clearing congestion, so a hot shower or bath is tempting and makes you feel so much better. Sadly, it’s causing damage to your already fragile skin. The heat dries out your skin. Especially if you’re having those long soaks in the tub. Stick to showering or bathing once a day and use a gentle soap. Be sure to moisturise the moment your step out the bath or shower.
KEEP AN EYE ON BATH & SHOWER TIME
STAY HYDRATED We all now know the benefits of drinking water. We all know that we’re meant to drink at least eight glasses a day, but most of us don’t, or we forget to. When you’re sick, it’s crucial that you constantly remain hydrated. I’m not saying that you have to drink ice water – I mean, who’s going to want to do that anyway? Try sipping on a cup of warm water with a few slices of lemon and a few drops of honey. It’s a great way to get those needed fluids in, and as an added bonus the lemon is a source of vitamin C.
GO EASY ON THE SCENTS When we’re feeling ugly and yukky, we reach for all things beautiful to surround ourselves with to at least bring some joy to our miserable days. One would think that the smell of your favourite perfume or lighting the fancy scented candles you’ve never used would bring some joy. Unfortunately, those intense scents will irritate your already sensitive nose, leaving you feeling even more clogged up. During this time, stick to more bland or fragrance-free products.
