Every single day, we are continually exposed to organisms in our environment that are inhaled, swallowed or inhabit our skin. Whether or not these organisms develop into allergies, a virus, illness, infection or other health conditions, is reflective of the integrity of our body’s immune system + it’s defence mechanisms.
Our immune system protects the body from these pathogens by recognising them, neutralising and, or removing them. Constantly adapting to our body’s ever changing environment.
I want to share with you what I do to protect, support + strengthen my immunity, including eating a diet of mainly unprocessed, natural foods that are seasonal.
Raw garlic
Garlic contains compounds with potent medicinal properties. I also like to ferment garlic in a salt/water + herb brine to increase it’s nutritional properties. When we cook garlic, it can destroy some of it’s health-promoting compounds. I add the fermented garlic to things like dressings, pesto etc where it’s raw.
Ginger
Ginger is an antioxidant, is antibacterial + helps to support the immune system. I grate it into curries, smoothies, dressings etc.
Onions
I add onions to everything. Not only are they are packed with immune-boosting nutrients like selenium, sulfur compounds, zinc + vitamin C, but they make food taste so bloody good (+ smell incredible when you cook).
Turmeric
Turmeric is one of the foods with the highest antioxidants + anti-inflammatory properties. It is best mixed with black pepper to increase the body’s absorption. I love to drink Turmeric Golden Milk.
Turmeric Golden Milk
1 tsp turmeric
1/2 tsp ginger powder
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp coconut oil
pinch black pepper
1 cup organic coconut milk
raw honey to taste
Add the ingredients to a mug except the milk. I froth my milk in a frother + pour over. Give a good stir + add a sprinkle of cinnamon on top. If you want to be really organised like me, bulk make + add the dry ingredients to a jar (same ratio’s) to use when required. Obviously add the coconut oil, honey + milk when you make a fresh cup!
Probiotics
Probiotics are live microorganisms (beneficial bacteria) that have health benefits when consumed. I include fermented foods like sauerkraut, tempeh, kimchi, miso, homemade pickles + kombucha into my diet.
Green leafy veg
Eating a rainbow of colour is a fundamental health tip. Optimal nutrients factor! As is, green leafy veg are some of the most nutritionally charged food (+ iron). In fact, the variety of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants + photochemicals in fruits + veg have enormous healing powers.
“Let food be thy medicine, and medicine be thy food”
Vitamin C
I eat plenty of foods high in vitamin C, including fresh fruits + veggies, especially citrus fruits, strawberries, broccolini, cabbage + parsley.
Zinc
I derive from fish, oysters, dairy foods (cheese come at me!), eggs, legumes, almonds, cashew, pine nuts, dark chocolate 85% + (hello you), sunflower + pumpkin seeds.
Seaweed
Seaweed is a potent anti-iflammatory + antioxidant + offers some of the highest quality of nutrition found in food. I add re-hydrated seaweed to my asian rice bowls, use it to make sushi etc.
Having a well balanced diet will supply you with all the essential nutrients your body needs for a healthy immune system, which is crucial to our all-round wellbeing.
Essential oils
Many essential oils have anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibacterial, antiseptic + anti-fungal properties that can help to support your immune system. Some of the best essential oils for supporting your immunity including oregano (applied to the soles of the feet), myrrh, ginger, lemon, eucalyptus (apply to the chest), frankincense, peppermint + cinnamon.
To apply topically, add a couple of drops to the palm of you hand with a carrier oil + apply. Alternatively, you can make up a roller bottle blend for extended use. Always consult a dilution chart for safe amounts.
You can read more on essential oils below;
Essential oils supporting winter wellness
With love + in health,
Kristy x
Essential oils @ wholesale (25% off retail)
If you are in need of some pure essential oils visit my online shop (instructions are on the right after clicking the link) or alternatively, email naturalhealthconsciousliving@hotmail.com for my assistance. You will become a part of our supportive community, receive a welcome email + free wellness consult with me.
*Always check with your health care professional if you have any pre-existing issues prior to using essential oils. or if you are pregnant.
All material on this site is provided for information only, and may not be construed as personal medical advice to diagnose or treat. No action should be taken based solely on the contents of this information; instead, readers should consult appropriate health professionals on any matter relating to their health and well-being.
The author claims no responsibility or liability, for any loss or damage incurred by use of information provided by this site.
