The days are getting shorter and colder and everyone around you has started to get cold and sicknesses. Want to give your immune system some support in this challenging time? Look no further. In this article I’ll share some of my favourite supplements for Autumn.
Autumn is referred to in Tibetan medicine as a “conflict season”. What does this mean? It could be thought of as a season of change, a transition of sorts, from the warmth and abundance of light of summer to the cold dark days of deep winter. As the environment around us changes, our body needs to adapt. When it is stressed, intoxicated or worn down, it has less resources to do so and we are more likely to get sick at this time. Obviously, the best approach is a whole body/mind approach to optimising your health. If you’d like support with that, please reach out.
For the sake of a generic boost to your body’s resources and defences at this time, here’s the list of my favourite autumn remedies and supplements. Remember, these supplements may not be suitable for everyone. Please do your research or consult with your health care provider before starting anything new.
My Top 5 Supplements for Autumn
#5: Propolis
Propolis, also known as bee glue, is produced by honeybees from the anti-microbial resin they collect from the leaves, flowers and barks of plants and trees. The resin is combined with beeswax, secretions from the bee’s salivary glands and pollen. It is used as a sealant and steriliser in honeybee nests, essentially to protect the hive from invaders and other issues. The colour varies from yellow, to brown or black, depending on the plants that the resinous substance was collected from, and the colour (and chemical composition) will vary with the local flora (geographical location and season) and foraging preferences (bee species).
Propolis has an extensive record of traditional use as an anti-inflammatory, especially in Europe and ancient Egypt. It has traditionally been used for infections, the common cold, throat inflammation, wounds and burns. In modern times, it has been found to have a wide range of biological actions, including but not limited to, antibacterial, antiviral, fungicidal, anti-inflammatory, antioxidative, hepatoprotective, free-radical scavenging, immunomodulatory, anti-diabetic, local anesthetic and radioprotective.
#4: Rosita Extra Virgin Cod Liver Oil
Cod liver oil has been used for a very long time to provide us with a concentrated form of essential fatty acids and fat soluble vitamins A & D which are often deficient in our diets. Particularly useful in the colder and darker months cod liver oil is a must in most people’s supplement cabinet. However, the vast majority of cod liver oil these days is produced in a way that either leads to toxic rancid oils, the loss of the naturally occurring vitamins or the addition of synthetic alternatives.
Rosita EVCLO is the only brand of cod liver oil which I recommend to my clients, take myself and give to my family. Due to its unique, traditional extraction process that does not use heat or chemicals, the naturally occurring vitamins and oils are preserved and present in the ideal ratios. Cod liver oil has been used for a very long time for good reason – it’s a perfect supplement to take year round and especially in the colder months to support health in a multitude of ways.
From Rosita: “Handcrafted in small batches from wild cod (Gadus morhua), Rosita’s cod liver oil is carefully extracted using a method that avoids the use of heat, chemicals or mechanical processes. This ensures the oils retain the exceptionally rich nutrient profile, and that the delicate fatty acids and naturally occurring vitamins remain intact.”
#3: Wei Qi “Parasite” Gem Elixir
The Parasite Wei Qi Formula is a gem elixir combination which comprises the subtle wave emissions of sapphire, serpentine, barite, white calcite, blue fluorite, tektite, emerald, rutilated quartz, diamond, and gold.
The elixir is designed not only to harmonise the biological terrain and clear the low frequency miasmic patterns with which parasites resonate, but also, in the context of classical Chinese medicine, to strengthen the defensive “Wei Qi” energy barrier which protects the body from infection and to repel the “Pestilent Qi” or noxious energy forms which predispose towards infectious disease. Perfect for the Autumn, where the Metal element of Chinese medicine reigns supreme and our lungs skin need some support to repel invading influences like cold and wind.
#2: Guna Complex n.1
Guna Complex n. 1 is an original and innovative combination homeopathic formula, marketed in 40 countries worldwide and trusted by millions as Guna® Flu. Various studies have shown that Guna® Complex n.1 may help boost the body’s natural defences. It can be taken prophylacticly in the flu season or at the onset of a cold.
#1: Thieves Immunity Tonic
The origin of the legendary “Thieves Vinegar” can be traced back to the bubonic plague outbreaks which struck Marseilles in 1347, 1580 and 1720. During the first of these, it is estimated that up to 60% of European citizens may have perished. Yet, unperturbed by the risk of contagion, a group of audacious thieves took this opportunity to raid the houses of those who had fled the cities or simply steal any valuable possessions from the dead bodies which littered the streets and burial sites.
When they were finally apprehended for these crimes, the local authorities offered leniency in punishment in exchange for the method by which the thieves had apparently protected themselves. Their secret was revealed to be an infusion of antibacterial, antiviral and immune-modulating herbs, which had been steeped in vinegar. Variations of this formula have circulated ever since as a folk medicine prophylactic. Typically, the ingredients will include: rosemary, sage, thyme, lavender, and garlic. In some preparations, wormwood, rue, meadowsweet, cloves, horehound, and camphor were also used.
This version contains additional ingredients to support immunity against more modern issues, including pine needles, star anise and elderberries. It’s also delicious!
What’s your favourite supplement for Autumn?
Let me know in the comments below.
