Natural remedy for autumn: season of mists, sniffles and sore throats

Now that Autumn is definitely here, the usual sniffing and coughing signals that cold season is also here. So, now is a good time for a quick run-down of all the natural and herbal remedies you can use to help.

So many people just reach for the Lemsip and try to soldier on, when this is the worst thing you can do. Firstly, you then spread the germs to lots more people and secondly you don't give your body a chance to divert all the necessary energy to the immune system. So, the first thing you should do is go to bed and rest. If you have a fever, that is your body's way of trying to make you an inhospitable place for germs, so unless it's very high or rising very quickly, don’t bring it down with paracetamol or aspirin, instead, give some of these ideas a try.
Echinaforce is good brand of echinacea, the herbal remedy which is traditionally used to boost the immune system during colds and flu. There's also a version for children.
Black elderberry extract has recently been the subject of a double blind trial showing its effectiveness in combating flu, and Sambucol is the original formula used although there are different versions of it available – with or without sugar, for children and with various other herbs added.
There is currently a lot of research being conducted into the medicinal uses of Active Manuka Honey. From New Zealand, its uses for disinfecting wounds are well documented but its use as a cold remedy is more anecdotal. However, a couple of spoonfuls of honey a day is always helpful if you have a sore throat and if you can use one which is actively anti-microbial, so much the better.
If you have a sore throat, sage tea is a fantastic remedy, especially with a little lemon and honey added. This is especially good if you have your own fresh sage to brew up.
Extra vitamin C and zinc are also beneficial during colds and flu and these lozenges can be sucked or chewed and contain no added salt, starch, lactose, gluten, yeast, colours or preservatives. They are also suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
Remember that if you're pregnant or breastfeeding or taking any medicines, always consult a doctor or qualified herbalist before taking any herbal remedies. And check dosages carefully before giving them to children. Honey is not suitable for children under the age of one.
So there we have the ultimate all-natural regimen for banishing that Autumn sniffle – no pharmaceuticals in sight. Just get into bed with a good book and rest.