The most important things you can keep in your medicine chest for winter are manuka honey and olive leaf extract. Manuka honey is the best defence against throat irritation and inflammation. We all know that honey soothes the throat but this stuff has antibacterial properties that help with the nasty bugs. Olive leaf has only just recently been proven as having anti-viral properties, this coupled with high levels of vitamin C and massive antioxidant status (much higher then Goji) make this an excellent winter defence.

The other thing to consider is the most important, your day to day health. Take a good quality probiotic every day as this will keep the balance of bacteria in your bowel healthy. This is important as probiotics promote healthy immune cells and act as a barrier against unwelcome bugs. Think about what you are eating! Stick to your 5 and 2 rule, that’s 5 serves of veges and 2 of fruit. Try to eat fruit that is in season such as oranges, pears, mandarins.

If you follow this advice you won’t suffer as badly or as often. When a cold does take you by surprise (usually when you have a holiday) get in touch with a Naturopath (not all of us are expensive) and get a herbal formula that is specific to you. Herbs are superb for getting rid of a cold or cough, and I’m speaking from personal experience as I am never down with colds etc for more than a day!

Enjoy the rest of winter!