Herbal Medicine for Summer COVID Relief: Immune Tonic and Cooling Herbs to Consider
With the latest wave of COVID this summer, I wanted to share some herbal wisdom to help ease symptoms and enhance your overall immunity. Cooling herbs can play a pivotal role in easing your symptoms and bringing comfort in the summertime. Let’s explore some of the most delicious cooling and immune tonic herbs and their potential benefits.
The Role of Cooling Herbs
Cooling herbs are known for their ability to reduce internal heat and inflammation, promote relaxation, and support the body's natural stress response. They are especially beneficial during the hot summer months when warmer temperatures can worsen symptoms of illness and cause discomfort. The cooling herbs I have selected have multiple actions, also serving as a tonic for the immune system, and offering antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. Consequently, they can naturally alleviate pain and enhance overall well-being.
1. Peppermint (Mentha piperita)
Benefits:
Antiviral Properties: Peppermint has been studied for its antiviral effects, which can be supportive during viral infections like COVID-19.
Cooling Sensation: The menthol in peppermint provides a cooling sensation that can soothe sore throats and reduce fever.
Digestive Support: It can also help alleviate digestive issues some people experience during illness.
Usage:
Tea: Brew fresh or dried peppermint leaves in hot water for a refreshing tea.
Inhalation: Add a few drops of peppermint essential oil to a bowl of hot water and inhale the steam.
2. Chamomile (Matricaria chamomilla)
Benefits:
Anti-inflammatory: Chamomile is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce respiratory inflammation.
Calming Effects: It promotes relaxation and can improve sleep, which is crucial for recovery.
Mild Antiviral: Some studies suggest chamomile has mild antiviral effects, which can be beneficial in supporting the immune system.
Usage:
Tea: Chamomile tea is a popular and effective way to enjoy its benefits.
Compress: A cooled chamomile tea compress can be applied to the forehead to reduce fever.
3. Lemon Balm (Melissa officinalis)
Benefits:
Antiviral: Lemon balm has shown antiviral properties, making it a valuable herb during viral outbreaks.
Nervine: It helps calm the nervous system, reducing stress and anxiety, which can be heightened during illness.
Cooling Effect: The herb provides a cooling effect that can help manage fevers and heat-related symptoms.
Usage:
Tea: Brew as a tea to enjoy its soothing effects.
Topical Application: Use lemon balm-infused oil on the skin for a cooling effect.
4. Elderflower (Sambucus nigra)
Benefits:
Immune Support: Elderflower supports the immune system, helping the body to fend off infections.
Diaphoretic: It promotes sweating, which can help manage fevers.
Anti-inflammatory: Elderflower can reduce respiratory inflammation and ease symptoms of colds, flu and covid.
Usage:
Tea: Elderflower tea is a gentle and effective way to utilize this herb.
Syrup: Elderflower syrup can be taken regularly to support overall health.
5. Hibiscus (Hibiscus sabdariffa)
Benefits:
Rich in Vitamin C: Hibiscus is high in vitamin C, which supports the immune system.
Antioxidant: Its antioxidant properties help reduce oxidative stress in the body.
Cooling Beverage: Hibiscus tea is naturally cooling and hydrating, making it ideal for hot summer days.
Usage:
Tea: Brewed hibiscus flowers make a tart, refreshing tea that can be enjoyed hot or cold.
Cold infusion: brew like a tea but in cold water over a few hours. A more cooling version, and equally delicious.
Soothing Herbs for Sore Throats and Chest Infections
While cooling herbs can alleviate many symptoms, some herbs are particularly beneficial for soothing sore throats and alleviating chest infections, which can be a commonly experienced symptom.
6. Thyme (Thymus vulgaris)
Benefits:
Antimicrobial: Thyme has strong antimicrobial properties, making it effective against bacteria and viruses.
Expectorant: It helps in clearing mucus from the respiratory tract, providing relief from chest congestion.
Anti-inflammatory: Thyme can reduce inflammation in the throat and respiratory system.
Usage:
Tea: Brew thyme leaves to make a tea that can help soothe the throat and clear the chest.
Syrup: Combine thyme with other herbs to make a soothing syrup.
7. Liquorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
Benefits:
Antiviral: Liquorice has been studied for its antiviral properties, particularly against respiratory viruses.
Demulcent: It coats and soothes irritated mucous membranes, providing relief for sore throats.
Expectorant: Liquorice helps in loosening and expelling mucus from the respiratory tract.
Usage:
Tea: Liquorice root tea is a traditional remedy for sore throats and coughs.
Syrup: Create a herbal syrup combining liquorice with thyme and other herbs for a powerful remedy.
For those interested in making their own teas, check out our selection of dried herbs in our online shop to get started on your herbal journey.
For a convenient and effective solution, you can try our specially formulated Herbal Syrup for Sore Throats and Chest Infections, which combines the benefits of thyme and liquorice along with other supportive herbs.
Precautions
While herbal medicine can be incredibly beneficial, it’s important to use herbs safely. Always consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new herbal regimen, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications. Ensure you source herbs from reputable and ideally organic suppliers to avoid contamination and ensure quality.
Remember
Effective holistic health care is about the WHOLE person and environment, so combine these herbal remedies with a healthy lifestyle, clean water, clean air, plenty of rest and a balanced diet to maximise their benefits.
I hope this information serves you well, but if you need more individualised support on your healing journey, please reach out to me to book an appointment.
With love, from me, Sorrell, and the plant people!
