Winter Wellness: Prepare Your Body for the Cold Season

As we know, the cold weakens the immune system. Therefore, as winter approaches, it is recommended to consume herbs that strengthen the immune system and help with respiratory issues.

Thyme – Thymus

Thyme originates from Asia Minor, the southern European countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea. It grows in rocky areas.

Archaeological evidence suggests the use of thyme over two thousand years ago for treating infectious problems. It is known that the ancient Egyptians used plant extracts in the mummification process.

The active substances in thyme include thymol, borneol, and carvacrol. Additionally, thyme contains flavonoids and tannins. The plant is anti-inflammatory, expectorant, antispasmodic, relieves chest pains, and is an analgesic.

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For bronchial issues, brew a teaspoon of thyme leaves in boiling water, wait 10 minutes, and drink four cups a day. This drink is effective for coughs, stomach pains, intestinal worms, sore throats, sleep difficulties, and states of melancholy and lack of joy.

For sciatica pain, drip five drops of thyme essential oil on a teaspoon of olive oil and apply to the painful areas of the lower back.

For toothaches, rinse your mouth with a decoction of thyme leaves. To strengthen hair, wash it with the leaf infusion. Also, thyme is effective for Helicobacter pylori issues. Drinking thyme infusion suppresses the spread of the bacterium in the stomach.

Oregano

In the past, especially with Greeks and Romans, oregano held a place of honor as a medicinal plant and was widely used for healing wounds, as well as treating digestive and respiratory system diseases, and for relaxation. It was also used to flavor various dishes.

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The plant is rich in phytochemicals and phenolic essential oils such as thymol, which have high antiseptic capabilities and anti-bacterial and anti-fungal activity.

Brew a teaspoon of oregano in boiling water, sweeten with honey, and drink twice a day – it stimulates digestive secretions. The infusion is also good for headaches, mental restlessness, and sleep problems.

For mouth wounds and inflammations – gargle for half a minute. For the flu or various viruses, it is recommended to drink oregano leaf infusion four times a day. It also helps lower high blood pressure.

Muscle cramps, sinusitis – boil two teaspoons of oregano leaves in boiling water and inhale the steam.

Mushroom Power

Let's delve into the power mushrooms, which strengthen the immune system.

Shiitake − Shiitake is an edible and medicinal mushroom, native to Japan. Shiitake mushrooms are used to strengthen the immune system in cases of immune weakness, viral diseases, and autoimmune diseases. It also serves as a general body's strengthener in states of prolonged stress, fatigue, and general weakness, fibromyalgia, and even as supportive treatment, strengthening and moderating side effects in the situation of the dreaded illness.

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Improved immune function in the intestinal area and reduced inflammation levels in the body were observed, expressed in a decrease in CRD markers in those who consumed Shiitake mushrooms. Shiitake also supports the liver during chemotherapy. It is also used to treat metabolic diseases and high blood pressure.

Reishi − The Reishi mushroom is a classic adaptogen and support in strengthening the heart muscle and adrenal gland activity, the liver and pancreas, improving blood clotting and lipid indicators, balancing the thyroid gland, mental balance, and raising energy levels, especially in exhaustion and fatigue.

Additionally, Reishi strengthens the immune mechanism, has antiviral and anticancer activity. Reishi mushrooms have significant antioxidant properties.

Maitake − The Maitake mushroom originates from northern Japan. It is known as a very nutritious edible plant, containing a complex of vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. As a medicinal plant, it contributes to overall health. The mushroom improves immunity, and contributes to a longer lifespan.

The mushroom contains beta-glucan, which contributes to the operation of the immune system and the secretion of TM cytokines (proteins that are the basis for communication between cells of the immune system and between cells belonging to tissues of the body).

Studies have also shown that Maitake mushrooms have a balancing effect on blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.

You can find "Power Mushrooms" in tablet form in health stores.

Wishing everyone a healthy winter. Amen.

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