How to Combat Winter Ailments the Natural Way!
Let’s face it, winter isn’t always a magical wonderland. There are loads of things to worry about in winter including dry skin and of course, the dreaded cold and flu! But fear not, there are loads of natural ways to combat the most basic and most debilitating winter ailments out there. So, next time you’re not feeling your best in winter look to nature for a helping hand! Here are 5 ways to combat winter ailments the natural way!
Hydrate dry winter skin:
What’s the secret to lusciously gorgeous skin and hair in winter? Pomegranate seed oil of course! “Pomegranate seed oil is used in many beauty products because of its potent ability to rejuvenate skin and hair while being faithful to nature at the same time”, says Robyn Smith, founder of online organic and natural store, Faithful to Nature. It can offer deep hydration for the skin. Because pomegranate seed oil penetrates so deeply and effectively it doesn’t make the skin greasy or clog pores. It goes to where you need hydration most and can even be used by those with skin problems such as acne. It’s extremely healing so can be used to remedy dry and cracked skin and to alleviate skin issues such as psoriasis and eczema.
Regular use of organic Buchu oil is another great way to treat itchy, dry, inflamed, flaky and reddened skin often caused by eczema. Buchu oil has potent anti-inflammatory, antifungal and antibacterial properties, which helps to manage outbreaks of eczema as well as bring immediate relief to inflammation and itchiness. “Often our go to response for the treatment of winter illnesses, aches and pains is to treat it with chemical drugs such as antibiotics and anti-inflammatory medications. While these have their place, it need not be our first port of call when we have access to products harnessing the medicinal benefits of a plant such as Buchu,” says Karin McCann of Cape Kingdom Nutraceuticals.
Beat the flu with nature
Being plagued by the flu win winter is no joke! Your immunity levels are at a serious low point when you have the flu, leaving you susceptible to inflammation which can turn a bout of flu into full blown pneumonia. Supplementing your diet with a natural anti-inflammatory such as Buchu, can help reduce and prevent inflammation when you have the flu. Buchu is also a source of Vitamin A, an essential vitamin for guarding against viral infections such as cold and flu.
Natural health gurus also recommend that you reach for Turmeric when you’re suffering with cold or flu symptoms. Tumeric offers potent antiviral, anti-fungal, anti-cancer and antibacterial properties and can go a long way to making you feel better when you’re suffering with inflammation and pain associated with the flu. A cup of warm milk with a teaspoon of turmeric powder can help to ease the symptoms of colds and flu.
Combat Urinary tract infections
The winter season sees a surge in urinary tract infections (UTIs) due to the consumption of less water. To help prevent UTIs or treat the symptoms of this uncomfortable infection drink Buchu herbal tea. The tea has natural anti-septic and mild diuretic properties to help you get over the infection quicker and prevent any further damage to your kidneys. “Buchu is a powerful natural resource which, due to naturally occurring components such as quercetin, rutin, hesperidin, diosmin (bioflavonoids), diosphenol and Vitamins A, B and E yields fantastic results without any harmful side effects in keeping illness at bay during the winter months,” says Karin McCann of Cape Kingdom Nutraceuticals
Of course, another simple remedy is to drink plenty of water to flush out your system. You can also try eating loads of cucumber. Thanks to their high water content, cucumbers are a great way to get extra fluid through your system when you find yourself having a hard time drinking enough water. Simply slice and enjoy!