21/11/2024
Time to focus on boosting your family's immune system as a whooping cough epidemic is declared across NZ. A national newspaper reported today that a total of 263 cases have been reported over the past few week suggesting that cases are on the rise. Children and pregnant mums are at the highest risk.
From a naturopathic perspective, this is a perfect time to support your family's immune system as well as having a few keep herbs and nutrients in your first aid kit to be able to respond quickly.
Prevention
Boost vitamin C, D and Zinc levels. These are the immune system's key players that can be added to our diet.
Vitamin C can be found in kiwifruit, citrus fruits, bell peppers, broccoli.
Zinc can be found in eggs, pumpkin seeds, legumes, nuts
Vitamin A in carrots, sweet potatoes, leafy greens.
Probiotic Support: Maintain gut health with fermented foods like yogurt, sauerkraut or probiotics, as gut microbiota plays a crucial role in immunity.
Natural Antimicrobials:
Consider elderberry, echinacea, or garlic as immune modulators that may reduce susceptibility to infections.
Symptom Management:
Soothing Remedies:
Use warm herbal teas with marshmallow root, slippery elm, or honey (for children over 1 year) to calm throat irritation.
Steam Therapy:
Inhaling steam with quality organic essential oils like eucalyptus can help loosen mucus and ease breathing.
Supportive Nutrients:
Vitamin C: High doses of vitamin C in a lypospheric form may reduce the severity and duration of symptoms.
Vitamin D: Optimizing levels helps modulate immune response.
N-Acetylcysteine (NAC): Acts as a mucolytic, thinning mucous in the respiratory system and supports lung health.
Herbal Medicine:
Licorice Root: Offers anti-inflammatory and soothing properties for respiratory tissues.
Thyme and Mullein: Traditionally used to support respiratory function and clear mucus.
Rest and Hydration:
Encourage physical rest to conserve energy for recovery and maintain hydration to thin mucus secretions.
As always, prevention is better than the cure. If you would like more personalised support for your family's immune system you can book an appointment online at www.integratedbody.co.nz.