Just Ask Terry

Terry is happy to provide his opinion on diet and nutrition, supplements and lifestyle choices. This information is for educational purposes only. It is not meant to replace the advice of your physician and is not to be considered medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Should you have any concerns please contact your physician directly.

Q. Dear Terry, “I came down with a cold a week ago and I just can’t seem to shake it. My doctor says it is due to a virus and that I have to give it time. Do you have any recommendations that could help speed my recovery?” — Jan K. Milwaukee, WI

A. Dear Jan, For a cold, my two favorite herbs are pelargonium and andrographis. I have seen clinical studies on both herbs which show they reduce the severity of a cold and shorten the duration. While most people suffering from colds usually struggle 5-10 days before they are completely free of symptoms, using a combination of these two herbs will significantly reduce the severity and duration. In fact, most colds can be eliminated in 24-72 hours. I recommend taking 2 capsules of this blend three times daily.

I also recommend trying a blend of eucalyptus and myrtle oils designed to be taken orally in a capsule – two very wonderful, concentrated plant oils that can reduce inflammation, reduce congestion, and open blocked passageways. If you’re a little bit on the brave side and want to try my personal recommendation, take a capsule of the eucalyptus and myrtle and allow it to melt in your mouth. This is something you may or may not like, as it is an intense flavor. I find it effective and invigorating. You’ll experience the fragrance of myrtle and eucalyptus throughout your lungs and nasal passages, which some people have come to appreciate after I suggest this application. Be careful though. Some people may not like the strong taste of eucalyptus and myrtle. But, at least try it once to see if it is right for you. If you don’t like the intense flavor, then swallowing the capsule is also very effective. I suggest taking 1 or 2 softgels of this oil blend three times daily as needed for sinus congestion

Lastly, I recommend taking a blend that combines the essential oil of thyme with climbing ivy extract standardized to hederacoside C. This soothing combination helps clear the sinuses and reduce tissue irritation and inflammation. I suggest taking 2 tablets three times daily until your lung congestion clears.

When choosing a formula, make sure it features concentrated plant oils that have been laboratory tested to accurately identify elements of their natural chemical composition. Unlike essential oils used for massage and aromatherapy, these plant oils are tested and “fingerprinted” based on specific molecular makeup, species, marker compounds, purity and safety for internal medicinal use. The extraordinary potency of these tested plant oils allows for relatively low doses, but very powerful health benefits.

Please note the above are loading dosages – so once you feel like normal, cut the dosages down to one or two softgels a day.

Healthy Regards!

Terry . . . Naturally