Ask Our Expert
THE NATURAL HEALTH EDITION
Ask Our Expert
National Pharmacies Naturopath, Joanna (Jo) Hill answers your questions about natural health.
How can I boost my immune system?
Vitamins C & D, Zinc and Quercetin have been extensively researched. Combined they are involved in the first line of defense (nose, throat), immune regulation, display antiviral activity and reduce symptoms via their anti-inflammatory activity.
Vitamin C cannot be stored in the body and must be consumed everyday – eat a diet that is rich in brightly coloured fruits and veggies. Herbal remedies are also extremely effective. You can use Echinacea, Astragalus, Andrographis, Elderberry and medicinal mushrooms such as Reishi and Shitake.
Is there anything that will improve my memory?
Traditionally Ginkgo Biloba has been used to stimulate
circulation to the brain, when combined with the Ayurvedic herb Bacopa it is even more effective. Stress reduction will improve memory performance. I also suggest doing some crosswords, sudoku, reading or study – if you don’t use it, you’ll lose it!
I get leg cramps often. Can you recommend a way to stop these?
The wonderful mineral Magnesium helps the muscles to relax after they have contracted. I prefer to give a powdered form of Magnesium Citrate or Bisglycinate for improved absorption and availability to the muscles. Also, make sure you are drinking plenty of water! Water will help to move electrolytes to the muscles so that contraction and relaxation can occur in a balanced manner.
Can I use something natural to reduce my period pain?
Magnesium will help to reduce the muscle spasms and pain of Pre-Menstrual Syndrome. Additionally, the herb Vitex agnus-castus (aka Chaste Tree) is an affective herb to balance the hormonal cascade and highly indicated for PMS.
I always feel bloated after lunch, will a probiotic help?
Yes, there are plenty of great formulae in store, which will help to improve microbiome variety and composition and improve integrity of the gastrointestinal tract. In turn digestion will be more efficient. I also recommend having an awareness of what you eat for lunch. Is there something that does not agree with your stomach? This can cause digestion to slow and switch over to fermentation with the by-product being gas and cramping.
What should I take travelling with me so that I don’t get an upset tummy from the local food?
A probiotic called Saccharomyces cerevisiae (Boulardii) or SB for short. SB maintains the gut barrier and integrity, which ultimately improves immunity.
My friend says she takes something for hot flushes, what can I take?
While hormonal disturbance in menopause is individual for each person, there are a few measures
you can apply which will help to reduce the occurrence of hot flushes. Drink 2-3L of filtered water daily. Reduce caffeine, sugar, and alcohol intake, as they are all very common triggers. Make some time for relaxation. Then, make an appointment to see one of our Naturopaths for tailored, holistic support.
I have trouble getting to sleep, what can I take so that I don’t feel drowsy in the morning?
Herbal remedies are extremely effective for inducing sleep. Any combination of the following herbs – Passion Flower, Magnolia, Chamomile, Lemon Balm, Lavender, Zizyphus will have wonderful effects. You can also have Magnesium powder as your after dinner drink. Don’t forget your sleep hygiene – no screens before bed, dim the lights, herbal tea, caffeine reduction.
What can I do to prevent headaches?
Put a few drops of lavender oil on your temples or in an oil diffuser. Drink 2-3L filtered water daily. Practice breathing to the bottom of your lungs – it is impossible to have poor posture if you are breathing properly. Include Magnesium rich foods in your diet. Get your eyes tested.
My skin is really dry in winter, what can I do?
Turn the heat of your shower down as this can cause dry, itchy skin. Hydrated cells create hydrated skin so internal health is important for maintenance of healthy skin. Increase essential fatty acids in your diet via fish, avocado, raw unsalted nuts and seeds or a good quality fish/plant oil supplement.
What is your top tip for good health?
I cannot overstate the importance of hydration. Drink 2-3L of filtered water daily.
The information provided here should not be used in lieu of speaking with a healthcare professional. If you’re experiencing symptoms visit your GP or local National Pharmacies Pharmacist or Naturopath.