Our ancestors have many valuable tips and tricks for survival and one of them was their resourceful ability to find powerful natural remedies to help support their health. To find out some age old gems, Stephen Eddey, Principal of Health Schools Australia shares his top six.

Olive Leaf Extract

Olive Leaf Extract has been traditionally used in Western Herbal medicine to support the immune system and maintain general wellbeing. Containing high antioxidant free-radical scavenging properties to support the immune system, Olive Leaf Extract has five times (400%) more antioxidant power (1) than the equivalent amount of Vitamin C. The liquid or capsules can also be used to relieve symptoms of coughs, flus, sore throats and upper respiratory tract infections.

Manuka Honey

This healing honey has been used by New Zealand’s indigenous cultures for thousands of years. Raw and unprocessed, Manuka Honey is far superior to the regular amber color honey, containing little flecks of nutrient-rich ingredients such as pollen and propolis particles that are supercharged with enzymes and antioxidant compounds. Also rich in anti-bacterial properties, a spoonful of raw Manuka Honey can help soothe the throat and digestive tract. If you feel a cold coming on, boil some hot water and squeeze of lemon and add some slices of fresh ginger.

Propolis

Also traditionally known to New Zealand indigenous and Brazilian cultures, Propolis is a powerful defence system produced by bees. Bees gather resin or sap from plants and combine it with enzymes to keep their hives free from infection. Likewise Propolis capsules can help support immunity, whilst Propolis based mouth sprays and lozenges contain anti-microbial properties to help calm a sore throat or nasty cough.

Coconut Water

In the South Pacific, the coconut has long been recognised as one of nature’s most potent liquid for wellbeing and traditionally consumed daily. Rich in potassium, magnesium and vitamins, coconut water contains natural sugars, minerals and amino acids to help hydrate and flush the body of toxins. Coconuts also have anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties that may help reduce flu and other viral diseases.

Ginger

Ginger is a traditional asthma remedy in the West Indies. Used in tea it is said to ease headaches and sore throats. Ginger helps to reduce the accumulation of the toxins that make you susceptible to infections, especially in the lungs and sinuses. Add a few slices of fresh ginger to hot water or your favourite herbal tea. Alternatively, add a spoonful of Manuka Honey into a small bowl and put in a tiny pinch of ground ginger, stir together then eat!

Gargle with Himalayan crystal salted water

Pulled from the world’s highest mountain range Himalayan crystal salt has been prized for its healing and restorative powers ever since the ancient times! Himalayan salt crystal can battle viruses and bacteria which causes a sore throat.  Gargling with warm water with a teaspoon of Himalayan crustal salt four times daily may help keep a scratchy throat moist and help to kill the infection.