by Sonia Tarantola

Who doesn't have garlic at home? No other herb can compete with its antibiotic efficacy and its ability to boost the immune system. Garlic (raw or pressed) defeats bacterial infections of the gastrointestinal tract as soon as it comes into contact with the body. What's more, garlic juice used as a vaginal douche (or even a clove inserted into the vagina) is capable of destroying bacterial infections. Used in the form of nasal drops, garlic coats the surface of the nasal passages and cavities, again defeating bacterial infection. But how do you get past that very strong taste? Cloves can be diced and mixed with honey to make the flavour more palatable. Deodorised garlic capsules can be found in health food shops. The only contraindication applies to breastfeeding mothers, as it affects the flavour of the milk and may interfere with breastfeeding. The advice for everyone is, as always, not to overdo it.

Less well known but easily found even in supermarkets is the root of ginger. Traditionally it has always been one of the main herbs chosen for treating colds and flu, and is particularly effective against
coughs. Ginger relieves pain, stimulates immune activity, reduces inflammation and promotes sweating, thereby providing relief when fevers run too high. It also warms and revitalises the extremities and helps prevent the chills associated with colds and flu. Taken as a herbal tea: steep a small piece of fresh root (well washed and scrubbed) in water (one cup's worth) and boil for 10 minutes. Drink throughout the day.
Alternatively, it can be added to any food (simply grate the root after washing and scrubbing it well), even in salads — it can be eaten in large quantities as it is a healthy stimulant for the body.
Avoid in excessive doses during pregnancy.

In honey, especially that produced from wildflowers, the nectar of many medicinal plants and more is present. Honey is rich in substances that are beneficial to our bodies: a complex assortment of enzymes, organic acids, proteins and minerals, to name but a few, make it an exceptionally effective remedy for respiratory conditions. In particular for the treatment of bronchitis, bronchial asthma, rhinitis, sinusitis, and in the management of colds, flu and respiratory tract infections. You can start with one tablespoon 3 times a day, up to one tablespoon every hour, diluted in tea if preferred.

For physical, emotional and spiritual cleansing and purification, juniper is, among the evergreen plants, the most widely used for steam baths or saunas, with the aim of preventing or treating illness. Juniper can easily be used in food, as a seasoning (it flavours dishes), or as a herbal tea and in steam form. The whole berries can also be consumed. The essential oil of juniper berries (easily found in herbalist's shops) is expelled through the urine and has antibacterial efficacy against resistant bacteria of the urinary tract. It is used against upper respiratory tract infections. It is recommended to put 8 to 10 drops in a spray bottle together with 30 ml of water, to be used against sinusitis and upper respiratory tract infections. A few drops in a diffuser or dissolved in water can also benefit everyone.