Colds and Flu

Homeopathy advice from G.Baldwin

Q. I work in a stuffy office and seem to get unending colds starting in the autumn and continuing through the winter.  Is there anything I can do to help prevent this?

A. Stuffy offices are notorious for spreading germs, so be prepared and arm yourself with some herbal defence remedies such as echniacea or Asian ginseng, which are known to help stimulate the immune system.  It won't prevent you being exposed to germs of course, but it will give you a better chance of fighting them off.  Goldenseal was used by Native Americans to treat mouth ulcers and respiratory diseases and studies in vitro (i.e. in the laboratory, not with people) suggest it has an ability to directly kill some viruses.  It is sometimes combined with enchinacea as a cold remedy.

Q. Are there any supplements I can take when I feel the first signs of a cold, that might help me stave it off?

A. There is some evidence that Zinc helps the body to fight off the viruses that are present when you have a cold, or are first exposed to the cold.  Some studies have shown that it also shortens the length of a cold, so even if you do still go ahead and develop cold symptoms it can be worth taking.  All the studies conclude that the best results are seen when you take zinc at the beginning of a cold, so don't delay.  Baldwins stock Solo's High Potency Zinc Gluconate in capsule form, which is more easily absorbed than many other forms of zinc.

Q. There's lots of talk about Vitamin C being a useful cold remedy…is that true?

A. Lots of people take Vitamin C regularly but during the past few years there have been ‘scares' about overdosing with this supplement.  The jury is still out as to whether large doses can do more harm than good, so be sensible about the amount you take.  Trials have suggested that using vitamin C whilst you have a cold can help reduce the severity of your symptoms and shorten the time the cold lasts.    

Q. After I've had a cold my sinuses always give me pain.  Would herbal remedies help relieve this?

Sinus congestion can be miserable and typically you will get symptoms of pain in the front of your head over the eyes, sometimes in the side of your face too, plus a blocked nose.  If symptoms continue for more than a few days you should see your doctor as you could have an infection that needs treatment.  If symptoms are mild, try treating with a few drops of eucalyptus oil in hot water and inhale the steam.  Bromelain, an enzyme derived from the pineapple plant, can be useful if you have sinusitis but consult your doctor first and tell him that you intend to take it as there are contraindications.

Herbs and vitamins should be taken in consultation with your GP or other health practitioner.  Don't take any of these remedies if you are pregnant or breast feeding.  More information and more details advice contact Baldwins helpline staff who will be pleased to help.  Phone them on 020 7703 5550.

 

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