Not to seem too “cup half empty”, but it is the season for family, excessive shopping, stress and sickness. Everyone in my office has been sick — twice. Less light, less exercise, less outdoors make for weakened immune systems and more chance of illness. I make sure to stock up on good food, good tea and get enough rest. In addition, I make sure I have the following:

1) Manuka Honey — I use it whenever I feel a cold coming on. I put a spoonfull in a cup of hot water or spread a little on toast. I also use it during allergy season to stave off attacks. Manuka honey has been used topically for minor and more serious wounds. I cannot give you a first hand account of this however. More information about the honey is here, but be forewarned, the research was funded by the honey industry . Don’t take their word, take mine. It works. It is also not the price of your run of the mill honey, budget $25 per jar.

2) Umcka from Nature’s Way — This is tincture made from a South African medicinal plant, pelargonium sidoides. There have been double blind studies and clinical trials, etc. Bottom line is that I found it helpful is not curing a cold (does anything?) but it relieves symptoms and in my opinion shortens the duration. I use it like the honey, if I suspect a cold coming on, I take a few drops several times a day. I give it to Aidan as well.

3) Kold Kare — This is actually andrographis paniculata. I basically took this one year on blind faith and now always have it around. It is an herbal supplement of sorts. I do not give this to Aidan.

Who knows what really works when we are sick. A little extra attention, good movies, bedside care and comfort go along way for me. And, a good old fashioned Coca-Cola with ice and a straw.

There are a few readers (you know who you are) who know a lot more about this stuff than me. I hope to hear from you in the comments section.