Homeopathy is the treating of disease using natural remedies rather than artificial drugs.
Getting sick is a complete nuisance, but for me, getting sick can be downright scary. Not a lot is known about Neuromyelitis Optica, but it is speculated that infection (colds to sepsis) can trigger an autoimmune flare up. Until proven otherwise, I am a firm believer in this because my first attack started after a series of random throat infections. Furthermore, because of my infusions that wipe out part of my immune system, I am immunocompromised leaving me more susceptible to whatever 'bug' is going around. Flu season is quite stressful for me, you'll often see me carrying around hand sanitizer and wearing gloves!
Since starting my AIP diet, I have felt that my immune system is stronger than ever. Interestingly enough, I think that it is because I am not polluting my body with FDA approved toxins (what even are 'natural flavors'??) that my body reacts really well with homeopathic remedies. My mom got me really interested in this preventative and homeopathic remedies. Below are some of the products she introduced me to and I use all the time!
1. Zicam Products - We use rapid melts, nose swabs, and throat sprays! Because I am immunocompromised I do take more than suggested to get the germs out of my system and I do not have to worry about overdosing or annoying drug haze. The only thing with the rapid melts and throat sprays is that you might get a bellyache, so make sure to drink a lot of water!
2. Oregano Oil - This oil can be diffused in a diffuser, steamed in boiling water and inhaled, soaked up under the tongue, or rubbed on feet. It is a natural anti-bacterial and anti-fungal
agent. It burns like heck though and is not for the faint of hearted!
3. Peppermint Oil - Okay so this isn't necessarily for preventing colds and flus, but when you have a headache from congestion I swear by this! I suffer from severe migraines at times. I dab a little bit of peppermint oil around my temples and eyes and it clears away any pain. Just make sure that the oil is safe for your skin and do not go in direct sunlight without washing off all the oil (I recommend washing oil off with Dawn Dish Soap because it is gentle on skin and designed to remove oils).
4. Bone Broth - You may be seeing this pop up in your feed quite often and yes, it is a hipster trend. But actually, bone broth has been made for centuries by many cultures across the globe. The history is fascinating. This broth is different from regular broth and stock because of the way that it is made (it can take up to 48 hours) which is why in many local health stores it is so expensive. You can use it as a base for soups, gravy, dressing, or just drink it plain. We usually get it at Shoprite (gluten-free aisle) or Trader Joes (broth section)!
5. Ginger Brew - My mom got me hooked on this a few years back. Ginger is great for digestion (stomach aches). But a good pot of ginger brew knocks the sniffles right out of you. We make it by taking fresh ginger root, grating/chopping it, and then boiling it in hot water for about an hour. It is quite spicy but adding some honey makes it go down smoother!
Stay safe and warm in this midst of this flu season! Hope that some of these tips help!
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