Archive for the ‘Simon Says’ Category

SOME WINTER WELLNESS TIPS:-

COLD SORES

If the winter weather is causing you cold sores, look no further than using a PROPOLIS lip balm or a gel containing SILICA. They not only soothe the burning and the itching sensations you experience with a cold sore, they also bind to the secretions and can systematically dry out the blister. CATARRH – it s’not what you want !! The herb PLANTAGO works on the mucous membranes in the ear, nose and throat tract and soothes and heals them. The soothing action is due to the mucilage found in plantago and it coats the membranes and prevents further irritation which in turn reduces the amount of mucus being produced. This is particularly useful if you have suffered a long period of inflammation and congestion that has weakened the membrous lining of the ear, nose and throat. Easing congestion in the ear, nose and throat tract will also relieve pressure on the sinuses and will reduce the constant headaches and constant pressure around the eyes and nose as the sinuses will have filled up with phlegm in the hollows of the bone structure when the mucus membranes are overloaded and which can be extremely painful. Removing this congestion might also help issues such as tinnitus or hearing problems.

NEW YEAR and NEW INFUSIONS There are some exciting new teas on the market to comfort us during the chilly winter months and these include a DANDELION, BURDOCK& HAWTHORN Leaf Infusion which gently supports your body if you are looking for that post Christmas detox. This unique blend has been partnered together for centuries and at least one cup a day could be part of your detox plan which gently assists your body and ditch that sluggish feeling. LAVENDER& ECHINACEA is a creative blend of fruit and herbs which provides a delightful way to assist your body with the stresses and strains of your day. It can also be used as an alternative to traditional iced tea . Add a slice of lemon and chill in the fridge for a cooling, caffeine-free tea.

BLOOD PRESSURE& BEETROOT The amazing benefits of BEETROOT have been hitting the headlines for months, but for many the juice is an acquired taste. In CAPSULE version it contains all the key ingredients of beetroot juice and are low in calorie, time saving and easy to take. Beetroot is packed full of nutrients, including Vitamin A and C, calcium, folic acid and antidioxants. Breaking news has concentrated on beetroot’s key ingredient Nitrate that has been show to reduce blood pressure, and the risk of heart diseases and strokes.

FRAZZLED NERVES & THE WINTER ANXIETY OF FINANCIAL WORRIES February is a well known month for anxiety after the overspend at Christmas and the full effect of the credit card bills dropping through the letter box together with the ever rising fuel bills simply just to to keep warm. So, Passiflora is the perfect herb for nourishing the nervous system working gently and safely to reduce anxiety. Instead of sedating the nerves, which can cause other effects such as drowsiness and feeling disconnected, passiflora reduces the levels of anxiety in the body. This makes it easier to deal with everyday situations that could also be heightened by anxiety. Passiflora works on the physical body, relaxing muscles and reduces tension. It also works on the emotional symptoms of stress, lessening the feeling of being on edge with a nervous system that is continually jangling or the feeling of our mind being full of chattering monkeys. Furthermore, keeping things calmer during the day means that the body finds it easier to switch off at night and we all know the true benefits of a good nights sleep if there is a busy schedule ahead, or just sometimes being ready to cope with simple daily tasks and thus refresh all the systems ready for morning. With Passiflora, taken long or short term, there are no known contraindications or history of physical dependancy, drowsiness or concentration and it may actually increase energy, improve memory and mental focus. If you are already on tranquillising or sedating medication from your doctor, do talk it over just in case there are other approaches more suitable to your situation.. Alternatively the herbal approach might be more appropriate for you. Looking forward to sharing more tips next month when we get ready, look forward and Step into Spring !!

SIMON ROBINSON is the main qualified working partner at
NATURES CORNER 2a Cross St, Callander

It pays to give your body the best chance of fighting off a pesky cough or cold, especially in the winter months. So, instead of huddling under the duvet as the days get shorter as the winter germs multiply, get yourself out and about. Regular exercise has been shown to help boost the immune system so aim to get outside for about 15-20 mins. brisk walk each day and especially should you have a pet dog, he or she can help you !! It also helps you to maximise the chances of getting some natural light which helps your body produce Vitamin D which is important in helping avoid Seasonal Affective Disorder (or SAD).

As the colder and frostier days approach, do not be tempted by the short term satisfaction of stodgy comfort food which are higher in sugar, salts and fats and although you might find them tasty or temporarily appealing, it is important to try and enjoy a healthier, more balanced diet. Strive to get your 5 a day by making the most of seasonal fruits as available and so plenty of satsumas will help as it is a good source of Vitamin C. Also Zinc combined with Vitamin C can be very beneficial.

With longer winter nights we often sleep that bit more and this is nature’s way of healing, resting and recharging our body. Poor sleep patterns leave us vulnerable to lower immunity and leave us susceptible to winter ailments. Herbal preparations such as Valerian Formulas and Flower Essences are developed specifically to help natural sleep.

Finally, Echinacea has been used for centuries to protect against infection and so many people still use it today either as a preventative measure or at the first sign of a sneeze, sniffle or a cold. ·

Miscellaneous issues

Ladies:

More and more these days you might well notice adverts in public/department store /shopping centre/car park toilets about ladies who are having to cope with regular hot flushes and suffer excessive night sweats. The herb Sage is now available in tablet form and feedback suggests that it is a great success and so many ladies report that they cannot do without it now.

Gentlemen:

Lots of men setter from not being able to empty their bladder fully at night time. Saw Palmetto can help with this annoying condition but only with products containing the oil from this plant as dried products seem to have less effect. A zinc or fish oil supplement can also help and pumpkin seeds should also he added to your diet.

Party Time:

The Festive Season will soon be upon us and parties are now likely to be in full swing. At this time please remember that Milk Thistle helps with liver metabolism and hangovers whilst artichoke leaves and dandelion root all aid digestion and flatulence.

Whatever you are all doing, and as the old saying suggests, with everything in moderation, please be sure to enjoy this very special time of the year.

With our very best wishes for Christmas and a very Healthy 2012 ahead.