January by the cycles of nature in the Northern hemisphere is a time for hibernation, for rest and reflection following the busy festive period. It’s the perfect time to embrace the cosiness of dark winter nights by curling up next to the fire with a mug of something warm and soothing.

The commitments of daily modern life mean that we must strike a balance between what our bodies call for at this time of year and the obligations of family life. With the children back at school and normal routine resumed it can be a time where your little ones (and you) may be more susceptible to picking up a bout of the dreaded January sniffles.

We’ve put together some natural remedy suggestions to safely see you through to spring.

Ginger root contains powerful anti-inflammatory gingerols and shaogals which help to quickly soothe a sore throat and they also ward off rhinoviruses which cause the common cold. For quick and effective results blitz some peeled ginger into your favourite smoothie recipe or add to hot water, lemon packed with vitamin C and raw honey to create a delicious and soothing tea (do not give honey to children under the age of one).

Other ingredients recommended by herbalists for natural cold and flu cures include:

Garlic – known for its antiseptic, anti-viral and antibiotic properties. Adding this to your hearty family suppers can go a long way towards keeping a cold at bay.

Onion – though not so appealing a prospect this time of year, eating onion raw keeps the respiratory tract open.

Sage – known by herbalists as ‘the mouth and throat plant’ is carminative, antiseptic and astringent, making it the number one herb for relieving sore throats and can also be used to treat sinus congestion (should not be used when pregnant or breastfeeding).

Cayenne pepper – can help to stop the flu virus in its tracks or shorten the length of time it sticks around.

It is recommended that the human body thrives when being replenished with 2/3 litres of water per day. Hydration, particularly in the form of warm fluids is particularly beneficial in combating flu symptoms. Keeping hydrated helps with the removal of mucus from the body and provides a helping hand to your bodily organs. Warm fluids, like broth or warm apple cider, have the added benefit of soothing a sore throat and assisting with the removal of mucus.

Applying a homemade vapour rub to areas of the body affected by cold or flu symptoms can be very beneficial. You can find a variety of recipes online using natural toxin free ingredients. Be mindful to check that the ingredients used are suitable for the age of your children before use. A ‘magic rub’ from a loved one also goes a long way towards making a child feel safe and comforted when they’re a little under the weather.

We hope that these natural cold remedies will serve you and your family well during the winter months and beyond. If you have any other home remedies that work a treat which you may like to share please get in touch!

Here’s to a very healthy and happy 2019!