Firstly, I want to say I hope you are all staying safe and healthy during this time.
COVID-19 has literally stopped the world in its tracks. None of us has witnessed a health epidemic of this scale in our lifetime. It's beyond frightening and if you're like us, you are adjusting everything you do to stay safe.
We want to support you to do just that. As a naturopath, I know one thing for certain. Health starts within. A nutritious diet will do more in the way of prevention than all the hand sanitiser in the world. We want our space on the internet to be a place of calm and knowledge. We launched Botani to help our beautiful customers and we'll continue to do that during this pandemic.
So today I want to discuss your health and ways you can boost your immunity naturally.
Gut Health
Your immunity is directly impacted by your gut health. Your gut health is a reflection of your diet. Getting your gut bacteria right is one of the most important things you can do to get and stay healthy.
The modern diet which is laden with processed, high sugar and low-fibre foods alters your gut and makes you susceptible to illness. So, what exactly do you need to do to correct the bacteria in your gut? Eat the right foods. The following foods will help to realign your delicate gut bacteria.
ALMONDS
Almonds are a delicious, high-protein, high-fibre snack but the magic really begins once this superfood hits your digestive tract. They are a natural probiotic and work to cleanse and neutralise the gut.
TURMERIC
Turmeric has anti-inflammatory, antiseptic and anti-bacterial properties. Turmeric both boosts your immunity and heal you from illness. Even more crucial considering the current landscape, turmeric helps the body naturally cleanse the respiratory tract. Plus, it boosts your immunity!
Add it to your milk, your tea or simply take it in water to absorb all of its natural benefits.
HERBS
Herbs are not only amazing in cooking, but they also have health benefits too. Stock up on oregano, sage, basil, fennel, peppermint & rosemary.
They ALL have powerful antiviral effects against many viruses that cause infections in humans.
GINGER
Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties which help to reduce inflammation in the body. It also naturally cleanses your gut of toxins which boosts your immunity.
Add it to a warm cup of water for an immediate dose of goodness.
Nature really does provide everything your immune system needs to thrive.
Vitamin C
Anyone who's ever suffered through a cold or flu would have heard that vitamin c helps but do you know why? Vitamin C helps your body produce antioxidants. These magical antioxidants work to maintain a healthy balance in the body. Which is good.
Now, your body produces something called 'free radicals' which can work with or against you. When you catch a virus, your body produces too many free radicals. Vitamin C can work to balance the free radicals and minimise the severity of the virus.
Short version? Stock up on natural vitamin c supplements and add broccoli, cantaloupe, cauliflower, kale, kiwi, orange juice, papaya, capsicum, sweet potato, strawberries, and tomatoes to your diet to boost your immunity.
Olive Leaf Extract
We've always known the olive was special. Our skincare range is built on it. But did you know olive leaf extract has anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties? All of these things combined, make it a super supplement poised to fight off viruses.
Taking just a tablespoon of olive leaf extract daily may help protect you from COVID-19. Additionally, it works to help minimise the severity of fevers, headaches, sore throats, fatigue and coughs.
Get Enough Sleep
When we sleep, our immune system releases proteins called cytokines. These cytokines need to increase to fight infection. If we don't sleep at least 8 hours per night, our body produces less of this crucial protein. Without appropriate levels of cytokines, our ability to fight off illness is suppressed.
Try a calming chamomile tea and burn lavender essential oils in the evening to promote sleep. And most of all, limit the time you're spending on your phone at night - increased use before bed hinders your sleep hygiene.
Wash your hands...and your body AND your face
There's a lot of information about handwashing hitting the media right now. Which is great. You should always wash your hands. Just make sure you're not forgetting your body and your face. The virus can stick to anything after all.
Also, don't forget to choose natural products. The truth is, you don't need harsh chemicals to remove remnants of the virus. Our natural formulations do the job perfectly and they won't damage your skin.
This refreshing, naturally medicated soap uses antiseptic and anti-bacterial actives to purify the skin and remove germs without stripping the surface of healthy oils.
Treating body acne and common fungal infections with Australian Lemon Scented Tea Tree Oil; a natural anti-bacterial. Botáni's Eco-Clear Body Bar is suitable for all skin types, especially congested and acne-prone skin.
This cleanser will gently remove dirt and grime without disrupting the protective barrier of your skin. Even better, it cleanses the skin of impurities, pollution and yes, germs.
Containing antiseptic properties and ingredients, this cleanser hydrates and softens whilst cleansing the skin. This unique formulation also contains a blend of Calendula, Tea Tree Oil and Echinacea to protect your skin.
PhytoBody Wash is a luxurious and gentle gel-based body wash formulated for all skin conditions. Its antiseptic properties will remove germs, naturally.
It gently purifies and restores moisture without stripping your skin of its vital oils. This multi-purpose body wash is an ideal shower gel and as a hand wash.
Don't forget to nourish your hands with our Olive Hand & Body Cream which will soothe, nourish and protect your hands from the effects of harsh soaps and detergents.
Most of all, be humble, be kind, take a breath and check on your neighbours. Take the time to be mindful, exercise and face the challenge ahead of us with empathy.
You matter.
Love & Light,
Barbara x
