Coughs (The Sunday Times, 3rd December 2006)

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Q. I am susceptible to coughs in winter, and last year took a zinc, vitamin C and echinacea tincture. However, much as I feel this helped, it was not enough to fully shift my cough. I have found that a hot toddy helps, but can you recommend any herbs?




A.I wrote last year about the herb pelargonium, which is relatively new to the UK market, but is established in Germany and America. The roots have been used by Zulu healers for hundreds of years to alleviate the symptoms of infections in the upper respiratory tract. I have found it to be incredibly effective in relieving coughs, colds, tonsillitis, sinusitis and mild cases of bronchitis. Medicherb Pelargonium costs £8.99 for 30 tablets (from Boots or Sunshine Health; 01453 751395). Take one tablet three times daily for a 10-day period at the first sign of infection.

Kid-e-kare’s all-natural Cough & Throat Spray for children (£21.15 for 30ml, from Tigon; 0116 235 5020) will also soothe adult sore throats. It is made with sour cherry juice, which is rich in germicidal flavonoids, and anti-microbial natural spice oils.

You could also add warming spices such as ginger, cinnamon and healing manuka honey to hot drinks. Try Comvita’s UMF 15+ Manuka Honey (£15.95 for 250g; www.comvita.co.uk).






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