We've been seeing a lot of viral infections circulate in the community since Christmas. Some of them seem to be lingering and causing a lot of really miserable symptoms. Antibiotics won’t help with these conditions as they are only effective against bacterial infections, so we have to think differently about treating these viral infections. One of the most effective supports for treating viral conditions and generally supporting your immune system are herbal remedies. 

Plants as medicine

Sometimes we can forget that some of the most powerful drugs and medicines are derived from plants. For example -  Aspirin was originally discovered in the bark of the willow tree, Codeine & Morphine were isolated from the poppy, Atropine was found in the deadly nightshade. Penicillin comes from medicinal mushrooms. Remember, herbal remedies are potent and can provide powerful support to your health.

Our new herbal range

I’m very excited about having Dr Clare Apothecary herbal remedy range in Organico, because they have been formulated specifically for Irish conditions and climate, and the feedback from people who take them really is excellent. 

Dr Clare is a leading authority in herbal medicines in Europe. She has been a GP for over 25 years and she is a practising Medical Herbalist with a BSc in Herbal Medicine. She is also an Honorary  Clinical Fellow of the National University of Ireland Galway Medical School.

Her range of herbal products is very comprehensive - she has formulated products suitable from childhood right up to old age. We have 25 different products in - creams, tinctures, herbal infusions and oils, for coughs and colds as well as stress and anxiety, digestion and women's health. 

Dr Clare’s tips for winter health

Dr Clare has some helpful tips on staying well during the winter which may help you avoid or combat some of the nasty infections that are going around:

#1. Hydration

Ensuring you drink plenty of fluids to keep you hydrated can help soothe your throat and prevent excessive coughing. Water is best and will help reduce the build up of mucus, reduce dryness and can help keep you cool if you have a fever.

#2. Clearing Mucus

Mucotone is a Dr Clare Apothecary tincture blended from ingredients that contribute to the health of the respiratory tract and can help alleviate the mucus build up caused by colds and coughs. Mucotone contains: Thyme Leaf, Echinacea Root, Chinese Ginseng, Mallow Root (syrup), Iceland Moss (syrup), Cat's Claw, Liquorice (syrup), Garlic, Ginger. So it is a really powerful mix! Take this at the first hint that you are feeling unwell with a possible virus, and carry on till you are confidently well again. 

#3. Relieving Tickles in the Throat

Kinderkind is a Dr Clare Apothecary antibacterial blend designed to help reduce inflammation, relieve tickle in the throat and pharynx and support the immune system. It is suitable for very young babies and children right up to adults and is ideal for soothing the symptoms of colds and coughs.

Kinderkind contains so many ingredients - here’s the full list and what each one is for:

 - Mallow Leaf: Known for its antibacterial properties, it can help relieve tickle in the throat and pharynx, providing soothing comfort.

- Elderberries: A powerful immune booster, elderberries help strengthen your body's natural defence mechanisms.

- Limeflower: Known for its calming properties, limeflower aids in relaxation and promotes a sense of well-being.

- Elderflowers: Along with elderberries, elderflowers contribute to immune system support, helping you stay strong.

- Rosehips: Packed with vitamin C and antioxidants, rosehips help maintain a healthy immune system and overall vitality.

- Chamomile: With its soothing and calming effects, chamomile promotes relaxation and supports overall well-being.

- Icelandic Moss: Known for its anti-inflammatory properties, Icelandic moss helps soothe respiratory discomfort.

- Hyssop Herb: Traditionally used for respiratory health, hyssop herb can provide relief for respiratory congestion.

#4. Sometimes a herbal tea can hit the spot

Dr Clare also makes a really powerful Herbal Infusion called Congestion Tea, which contains Thyme, Elderflower, Peppermint, Plantain Leaves, Yarrow, Rosehips, and Cayenne Seeds. It’s called a tea, but really this is a medicine in a sachet - each bag makes enough for a whole day. Thyme is antiseptic, Elderflowers are anti-viral and relaxing, Peppermint promotes sweating, and Yarrow promotes toxin elimination through the skin and isa anti-inflammatory. The advice is to make a flask or large teapot of this tea and drink throughout the day, every day for 2 weeks to clear congestion.

I hope you and your family are managing to stay well this winter.

Remember herbal remedies are powerful and may interact with other medications you have been prescribed so always check with us and we can refer your query to Dr Clare and her team to ensure there are no interactions.