om living
Herbs to boost immunity:
Elderberry & Elderflower, Sambucus nigra
The Elder tree boasts a wealth of traditional medicinal uses, which
are now supported by clinical trials and research demonstrating
its benefits for the immune system. Traditionally, almost every part
of the tree has been used to prepare medicines, tonics and drinks,
including the flowers, berries, bark and leaves. But, it is the berries
that are bursting with juicy goodness! The dark purple-pink colouring
of the berries is indicative of a specific constituent known as
anthocyanin, a very powerful antioxidant that can help protect our
body from the damage caused by free radicals. The berries are also
a rich source of Vitamin C, boosting our immune functioning and
protecting us from invasion by pesky winter colds. More specifically,
elderberries have a strong affinity for the respiratory system, helping
remove stuck mucous whilst also soothing sore and irritated mucous
membranes helping alleviate sore throats and irritating coughs.
Elderberries have also been shown to neutralise the neuraminidase
enzyme, which is responsible for the development of the flu virus in
our respiratory tract.
Herbs to boost your love life:
Shatavari, Asparagus racemosa
The name shatavari is derived from the Sanskrit words shat, which
means ‘100’ and vri, which means ‘root’. The word vari can also mean
‘husband’, which may explain why shatavari is often referred to as
‘she who has a hundred husbands’. The association with husbands
and fertility is also a reference to the traditional uses of the roots of
this plant, which for centuries have been used to treat and nourish
reproductive health. Shatavari contains constituents that help balance
out the key sex hormones, oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone.
It’s able to encourage hormonal balance whilst also boosting libido
and fertility. Although it has become famous for its benefits to women,
shatavari also boosts men’s fertility, so a winner all round! Try Pukka
Herbs organic Wholistic Shatavari £16.95 for 30 capsules