Cold and flu season is in full force with us. And we always seem to get hit hard in the fall. Thing #4 has already had pnemonia this fall and Thing #3 had croup. We've had the nebulizer out and going since the middle of October and it will stay in active duty until about mid-March.
I try to prevent colds as naturally as possible. We up our doses of Vitamin C and Vitamin D during the colder months. We also run the humidfiers all the time. I personally up my Vitamin B12 dose as well.
Something new I'm trying this year is Oregeno oil. It was suggested to me by our local heath food store. I looked up online and found these things out about it:
What are the Benefits of Oil of Oregano?
The ancient Greeks were one of the first people to recognize oregano oil for its health benefits and medicinal qualities. It is known to be a potent antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, and antiparasitic oil that can reduce pain and inflammation and effectively fight off infections.
Some of the specific benefits of Oil of Oregano are:
•Destroying organisms that contribute to skin infections and digestive problems.
•Strengthening the immune system.
•Increasing joint and muscle flexibility.
•Improving respiratory health.
Uses of Oil of Oregano
Skin Infections
Oil of Oregano can be applied directly onto the skin to treat itches, skin infections, and irritated gums, but only if it has been diluted. Always follow the instructions on your particular bottle before applying topically onto the skin, since highly concentrated oils may first need to be mixed with Olive Oil or Coconut Oil before application (usually one teaspoon of Olive Oil or Coconut Oil per one drop of Oil of Oregano).
Digestive Problems
The high concentrations of thymol and carvacrol in Oil of Oregano have been shown to calm upset stomachs and aid digestion. Therefore, a quick home remedy for mild indigestion is to drink a glass of milk or juice that is mixed with 2 or 3 drops of the oil.
Sinus Congestion
Oil of Oregano is a wonderful natural remedy for sinus congestion. A common solution is to add 3 drops of the oil into a glass of juice and drink this mixture daily for 3 to 5 days.
Colds and Sore Throats
Oil of Oregano is an excellent early defense mechanism when you feel a cold or sore throat coming on. Simply take 3 drops of Oregano Oil once per day (you can mix it into a glass of orange juice) and you should notice results within a few hours. Repeat this once per day for up to 5 days until the symptoms are gone.
So far it seems to be doing it's job. Three months into school and I have yet to have a cold or any other sickness that is going around with the kids. Usually by this time, I've had two sinus infections and bronchitis. I haven't tried it with the children yet and probably won't. I'm not sure of it's affects on them.
If someone does come down with a cold, we also treat that naturally if possible. We up Vitamin C again. We heat up water with peppermint oil in it and then "steam" our heads - put the water in a bowl and put our heads over the bowl with a towel on top - garenteed to clear stuffy noses. We use heating pads on the chest. We'll do "hot toddies" if possible (I don't put whisky in the kids - just warm 7up or Cider). Lots of chicken noodle soup and hot tea or chocolate.
What home remedies do you use to fight off the cold and flu? What do you treat them with?
