In these uncertain times it’s comforting to know that we have enough toilet paper to ensure bathroom happiness lest we’re confined to our homes, to ride out a viral attack.

Seriously though, what can we do to fortify our immunity in a world which revolves around travel, study and work? Not to mention sporting and entertainment events, family committments and more?

Hand sanitiser can be helpful in situations were you cannot clean your hands after touching surfaces in public spaces (The Thank-You brand is a natural option.)

However, washing your hands thoroughly with soap and water is equally good if done frequently and for at least a minute, cleaning between the fingers and under the nails, etc.

Staying well hydrated is absolutely essential to keep the mucous membranes of the nose and throat moist and able to capture viral invaders so they can be coughed out (hand over mouth) or blown out (tissue flushed or binned as soon as possible and hands washed after).

Drink plenty of water with added lemon and peppermint (vitamin C) to bloster the immune system.

At the first sign of a sore throat gargle with warm water and sea salt.

To cough up phlegm try Bonnington’s Irish Moss a natural cough liquid.

Nature’s pharmacy encompasses healing foods which not only kill viruses but also enhance the immune system to prevent infections from occurring.

One of the best anti-viral foods is garlic. (It is also anti-bacterial & anti-fungal.) Forget supplemental odourless garlic though, it’s the odour that’s the active ingredient for killing viruses. Crush the garlic clove to allow these essential compounds to be released and ideally eaten raw for the best results.

If garlic breath is a concern simply take with parsley which is also high in Vitamin C.

Maintaining your immunity also requires getting plenty of fresh air, sunshine and rest. Stress will dampen your body’s ability to fight off an infection and keep you sick longer.

Some herbal medicines work better once you already have an infection (ie Echinacea) while others can be taken as a daily preventative (ie Astragalus).

However, it’s best to get individual advice on the best remedy for your particular situation, rather than simply buying off the shelf and hopeing for the best. Herbs are natural but they should be prescribed for your unique needs and everyone is different.

Most importantly though, maintain a postive outlook and prepare for this just as you would any other winter or flu season. Unnecessary panic will only add to your stress levels and put you further at risk.

Seek medical advice if you become unwell after being in the company of someone who has been in an infected area.

If you need extra advice on how to stay healthy, book an Initial Naturopathic consult today!