A natural way to beat colds and coughs

With the colder weather on its way, Paul Hambly takes a look at how herbal remedies can help keep both children and adults from visiting the doctors surgery.

The winter round of colds and coughs seem to start with the first day of the Autumn term and goes on into the Spring. There is nothing wrong with having the occasional sniffle - it is the immune system's way of getting on top of the set of viruses that are always about. But when things progress and cold and cough symptoms appear, there are many natural ways of reducing the severity of the symptoms. This also prevents the symptoms dragging on and progressing further which can lead chest and other infections.

Supplementing with vitamin C, elderberry, Floradix and Kindervital throughout the winter is worthwhile. Echinacea taken at the first sign of or contact with a bug can often prevent it from coming to anything. If it takes hold, removing milk and cheese from the diet during the bug reduces the amount of phlegm production. Herbs such as thyme, elecampane, composition essence, liquorice, white horehound and balm of Gilead will gently expectorate and clear the respiratory passages.

Rubbing specialist decongesting oils to the chest can help to children to sleep and have a restful night. There are various propolis products around that are lovely for easing the symptoms of these bugs and they taste delicious. For repeated chest infections coltsfoot and plantain to build the lungs up. Herbal remedies are suitable for both children and adults. Visit your local herbalist who will point you in the right direction and are a source of good quality herbs.

Paul Hambly MNIMH, MBAcC Herbalist & Acupuncturist and Frances Hambly MNIMH Herbalist have a dispensary and clinic