How to keep coughs & sneezes at bay

LONDON: Despite our best efforts, the cold virus appears to have remained immune to medical advances made in the last century. However, contrary to popular opinion, science does show that the common cold is susceptible to treatment in the form of specific vitamins, minerals and herbs. There is, indeed, good evidence to suggest that natural remedies for winter infections are not to be sniffed at.

Our susceptibility to infection is essentially dictated by the efficiency of our immune system — the part of the body responsible for repelling unwanted organisms, including the virus responsible for the cold. One natural agent renowned for its immune-strengthening and anti-viral actions is vitamin C. Loading up on vitamin C-rich foods such as citrus and kiwi fruits in winter may help to keep infections at bay.

However, a more aggressive approach is likely to work better if an infection is threatening. Studies suggest that 1.5 to 4g of vitamin C, taken in divided doses during the day at the onset of a cold, reduces the duration of the infection by about a third. My experience is that a heavier-handed approach is often even more effective. Taking 1 to 2g of vitamin C every two waking hours until a day or two after symptoms disappear seems to stop most colds in their tracks.

By Dr John Briffa

For Ayurveda, Alternative Herbal Remedies and high quality Ayurvedic Medicines visit www.ayurvediccure.com