Immuni-tea

“Supporting immunity is a love language the plants are fluent in” Erin Lovell Verinder

Naturopathic medicine is all about prevention and this is where herbal medicine shines! There is also the ethos of holism in herbalism which is that the WHOLE plant matters. It can be tempting to compartmentalise the beautiful constituents of plants but it’s good to be mindful that they are not to be treated like drugs. The mindset of a ‘pill for an ill’ cannot apply here. The beauty and the healing qualities are always found in the symphony of what has been created as a whole.

Immunity tea

If you follow me on instagram you would have seen me share one of my go-to faves when it comes to herbal teas formulated by beautiful Aussie naturopaths Helen Padarin and Heidi East. You can purchase it HERE (not sponsored in any way, just sharing what I love).

Of course you can always mix and match your own herbal concoctions, but if you are ever in doubt about ratios then take advantage of the wisdom of the professionals.

Herbs including echinacea, ginger and thyme have traditionally been used to support and strengthen the immune system. This holistic blend has a grounded, earthy flavour, with subtle hints of sweet licorice, mint and vitalising, zesty, ginger.

Here’s a run down of just why these herbs are a great match for an immunity tea:

Echinacea purpurea

(Echinacea root and flowering tops)

Most people know of the wonders of Echinacea. After all, it is one of the most widely used and researched herb in the world!It is immune modulating, antibacterial, antiviral & anti-inflammatory. Echinacea activates immune cells to respond to infection, and has traditionally been used for the treatment or prevention of upper respiratory tract infections.

Thymus vulgaris (Thyme)

One of my fave herbs, thyme is wonderful at helping with upper respiratory congestion and inflammation i.e. bronchial asthma, nasal catarrh, coughs, colds and flu. It has lovely antimicrobial and antibacterial properties that make it a great ally in immune health. I also love its impact on the digestive system as it eases bloating, burping, diarrhoea, and tummy spasms. It is an expectorant, a decongestant and a tonic.

Melissa officinalis (Lemon balm)

Another beautiful herb that helps to restore calm. There is a sweetness to it and it is excellent at promoting relaxation and soothing unsettled tummies, overactive thyroids, viral expressions, colds, fevers, headaches and gut issues like IBS. A great stress reliever.

Achillea Millefolium (Yarrow)

Yarrow is a great herb for helping to break a fever via its diaphoretic action in which it helps circulation and the body to sweat it out!

Glycyrrhiza glabra (Licorice root)

Licorice root is one of my absolute fave gut loving herbs! It’s medicinal properties include: anti-inflammatory, antiallergenic, anti-arthritic and antipyretic. A demulcent by nature, it helps to form a protective film that soothes inflamed guts, and respiratory systems. Great for relief from colds, asthma, congestion and coughs.

Mentha x piperita (Peppermint)

Since 70% + of our immune system is found in the gut it’s no wonder we see herbs like peppermint used in blends to help soothe and enrich. It has a an antispasmodic effect on the smooth muscle tissue of the GI tract which can help to ease nausea, vomiting, cramping, and indigestion. It also helps sooth the respiratory tract, and acts as a decongestant to reduce mucous and congestion.

Zingier officinalis (Ginger)

Ginger warms like no other! A great anti-inflammatory, circulatory stimulant that has traditionally been used to help reduce fever, and relieve symptoms of a cold. Also a strong supporter of a happy tummy.