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| just because someone has caught a cold that is "going around" once, any immunity to that particular virus will be of little use if there is repeated infection. This is because the virus will have mutated into another form. |
| The herbal approach to treatment focuses on strengthening the body's immune system, thus helping it to fight the virus, while relieving symptoms. Frequent colds can be a sign of a weakened immunity; they can also indicate a stressful lifestyle or poor diet, and medicine alone can't help in these situations. Combating a cold at the first sign of symptoms is also important. Rather than trying to ignore the increasing catarrh and sore throat until the cold is full blown, start treatment immediately. |
| Teas for Colds |
| 3 parts echinacea (preferably aerial parts of E. purpurea or use the root of any speciessee p. 13) |
| 1 part each peppermint and thyme |
| Mix the elderflower, yarrow, thyme, and peppermintand the echinacea if using aerial partsand make an infusion using 2 teaspoons of the mixture to a cup of water. If you have echinacea root then follow the instructions for a combination infusion/decoction (p. 52). Make a decoction of echinacea using 1 teaspoon of root to 1 1/2 cups of boiling water. Pour this over 1 teaspoon of the herbal mixture above. |
| For aches and pains associated with the flu make the following infusion: |
| 2 parts each dried echinacea leaves and boneset |
| 1 part peppermint |
| Mix the herbs and use 2 teaspoons to 1 cup of water. Drink a cup 3 to 4 times a day while symptoms persist. |
| Echinacea is one of the best herbs to take to strengthen the immune system; also add plenty of garlic cloves in cooking. Anticatarrhals such as elderflower and yarrow can also ease symptoms. Cut down on refined carbohydrates (white sugar and white flour products) as these tend to encourage mucus, and eat plenty of fruit instead. Taking up to 5 g of vitamin C a day in divided doses can also help. |
| Coughs |
| Coughing is the body's natural response to any blockage of the airways such as dust, traffic fumes, or mucus resulting |
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