It is barely Winter yet in Australia and already Influenza A and B and Covid are everywhere we turn. Likely right now, someone you know either has either or is recovering from having either. So how do we prepare for the cold and flu season? As a Naturopath, I take a preparation stance, I like to keep my home prepared. Herbs, oils, vitamins, and many more have their place, but these work when you jump on them the second you start feeling a tickle in your throat. I don't know about you, but when I feel like I am getting sick, I cannot think straight and I often cannot get to the shops. So you need a plan of action. I thought I would take you through some of my favourite options to have on hand "just in case".

How to prepare for the cold and flu season.

• In terms of Essential oils, I use the brand doTERRA as that is who I trust in terms of quality, and some of my favourite immune oils are On Guard, Lemon, Tea Tree, and Oregano to name a few. I diffuse these if a lot of people around me are sick, or as soon as I feel a tickle in my throat.
• Herbal medicine- I suggest with you book in to see me as a qualified practitioner to prescribe you practitioner-grade herbs, these can come in a variety of forms, but ones to look out for are Andrographis, Elderberry, and Echinacea.
• Vitamins and Minerals, these can include Zinc and vitamin C again consult a practitioner, especially around dosing.
• Healing foods- for this I love having bone broths on hand, ginger, turmeric, and fresh lemon, to make into hot drinks, these are incredibly nutritive.
• Herbal throat spray and lozenges, if you get the right type, can really pack a punch and make a huge difference in how you feel- but be mindful of the brands you use.
• Homeopathy- this is probably my hero and when prescribed correctly can really shorten the duration of many types of sicknesses, I plan on running first aid workshops later this year, so stay tuned.

Other than these, I try to keep on top of my regular supplements, eat tonnes of fruits and vegetables every day, exercise, drink filtered water, and all these good things. I know it might seem like a lot, but I do think preparation will really make a huge difference in your health.

If you have any questions or would like to book a consultation please reach out at jaime@nourishingapothecary.com.