CORONAVIRUS: SUPPORTING ACCUTE IMMUNITY
Right now, it is really important to support our immune system.
Drawing upon the amazing resources of the Rhizome Community Clinic, here are a few top tips that will help you stay well.
1. Keep healthy.
Take adequate rest, eat lots of fresh fruits, vegetables, pulses and whole grains and keep physically active.
2. Stay hydrated.
It is really important to stay hydrated. Start the day with hot lemon and ginger and drink warm water/hot lemon and ginger throughout the day.
3. Keep it clean.
This one goes without saying. Wash your hands thoroughly with warm water and soap. Catch any sneezes and coughs in tissue. You know the score.
3. Feel a fever coming on? Support your body with anti-microbial and diaphoretic herbs.
The flu is an acute viral respiratory infection and coronavirus is a particular kind of flu. Typically, incubation can last around 48 hours and the illness is expressed through muscular aches, dry coughs and a fever.
Fevers can be a good thing - they can speed up metabolism and inhibit growth of invading virus. If you feel a fever coming on, diaphoretic teas can be used to promote sweating and the treatment of fevers.
Peppermint, Thyme and Rosemary Infusion
Pour hot water over equal parts of the herbs and leave to infuse for 20-30 minutes.
Drink 3 cups of tea a day during infection.
Ginger Decoction
Chop up a thumb of ginger and put in 500ml of water in a pan. Bring to the boil and then simmer for 40 minutes. Drink throughout the day. Ginger decoction can be particularly good for cold, shivery stages of virus.
You can add raw honey and lemon (also antimicrobials) to both of these to taste.
Garlic on toast
Garlic is a strong antiseptic. Chop up 2 fresh garlic cloves finely and rub on toast.
6. However, consistently check your temperature.
If you have a fever over 40 degrees C, seek medical advice on the NHS Wales Helpline immediately.
7. Apple cider vinegar baths!
Bathe or take hand or foot tepid baths with diaphoretic tea and 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar. After bathing, wrap up in a warm towel immediately. Use a tepid flannel bathed in diaphoretic tea and apple cider vinegar on forehead or feet.
8. Rest and recoup.
Convalescence is important. Stay in bed for a few days to recover. Eat simply, change sheets, shower. Once fever has passed, eat broths with seaweed and mushrooms and fresh juices for a few days, then eat light foods for a few days.
9. Look out for one another. But don't get too close!
In Cardiff, there are already a number of support networks you can join to help those in need.
Big shout out to Rhizome for their amazing info and inspiring work.
Stay well.
