Why Herbal medicines are a good choice of treatment for persistent coughs and colds

It’s that time of the year again. Many of us are spluttering with coughs and colds. Cold winter weather makes us much more susceptible to infections such as cold and flu viruses.We often rush to buy remedies over the counter at the chemist that relieve symptoms such as sneezing, blocked noses, sore throats, headaches and coughs. However, these remedies do not address the problems of persistent colds, the ones that keep returning, or coughs that linger. Once you have had one infection it can make you more susceptible to further infections particularly after the festive season.The main benefit of treatment with herbal medicines is that it can address both the causes and the symptoms. The reasons we catch colds are because we are exposed to the virus and our immune system is unable to fight the infection.Herbal medicines offer a two-pronged approach. First, herbal medicines can boost our immune system so strengthening the body’s ability to fight infection. Second, herbs can be very effective antimicrobial agents killing pathogenic viruses and bacteria.This second action has a further benefit of not only killing cold or flu viruses but also preventing secondary bacterial infections. This avoids asking GPs to prescribe antibiotics. With the wider increase in antibiotic resistance, we should reduce our use of antibiotics and preserve the body’s ability to fight more serious bacterial infections.A Medical Herbalist has access to a wide range of different herbs with both immune-enhancing and antimicrobial actions. They can prepare a unique mix of herbs for you to strengthen your whole body in fighting infections and getting fit again.to edit.