An unwanted birthday surprise - a positive COVID test
It was my daughter’s 15th birthday during the mid-term break and we went out for a family lunch to celebrate. When we got home we put the candles on the cake, all ready to sing happy birthday but she said she just didn’t feel like eating cake. That was the first warning sign that something was amiss!
That night, she couldn’t sleep as she had a fever and the next morning we did a test and sure enough it was positive. It took another week for David and me to also test positive. I had very mild symptoms – a sore throat and head cold. David had a very sore throat and flu-like symptoms that lasted for a few days.
I am writing this blog post to share the Ayurvedic remedies, herbs and spices that worked really well for all three of us. We were lucky that our symptoms were relatively mild, and it is important that if you experience breathlessness, or other more severe symptoms, consult your doctor right away, as well as following any Ayurvedic protocol.
Our 5 COVID relief tips
Tip 1: Fresh Herbal TeasWe made fresh herbal teas each day. Choose from the following: Ginger (a go to herb for colds and congestion), Coriander, Fennel, Turmeric and Cinnamon. (Fennel is really good for sore throats). Coriander and Fennel work very well together and help to cleanse the system.
Tip 2: SitopiladiThis is an Ayurvedic formulation that is used to treat colds and coughs. It has strong anti-inflammatory and expectorant properties which help greatly in the management of viral infections and other problems of the respiratory tract. It helps to expel excessive sputum from the lungs, as well as boosting the immune system.Mix 2g of this formulation with a little raw honey - take twice daily while symptoms persist.
Tip 3: Ashwagandha/Tulsi/GuduchiWe used all three of these adaptogenic herbs during our COVID experience but any one of these will be helpful. Take 2.5g (approx. half tsp) twice daily of the herb with warm water. Put the powder into a mug and add water (just off the boil) as if you were making a normal tea – stir and let it steep until it is cool enough to drink.
The benefits of each of these adaptogenic herbs
Ashwagandha is renowned for its anti-stress properties and its affinity with the nervous system and adrenals. It builds resistance to physical, chemical, and biological stressors, improving energy levels and general vitality. Tulsi is wonderful for headaches and fevers. It also supports respiratory health and is very helpful in fighting colds and flus. It is used to treat viral, fungal and bacterial infections of the respiratory system. Guduchi boosts overall immune health as well as removing toxins from the system. Thanks to its immune-boosting effects, it helps fight off the infection especially via the mucous membrane of the respiratory system. It possesses strong anti-inflammatory properties.
Tip 4: Facial SteamAdd a couple of drops of eucalyptus oil to boiling water in a glass bowl. Cover your head and shoulders with a large towel and drape yourself over the lovely steam! We found this helpful in relieving congestion. (Please use caution when steaming to avoid any scalding due to spilling or splashing of boiling water.)It is great to steam the face before applying Nasya drops. See Tip 5.
Tip 5: Nasya OilPut a couple of drops of this oil in the nostrils each day. This practice really helps to relieve nasal congestion and respiratory disorders.
Supporting a lasting recovery from COVID
Our experience with COVID lasted about 5 days each in terms of being symptomatic. During these days we noticed that our energy fluctuated and we definitely felt out of sorts. We have continued using Ayurvedic herbs and teas and now all feel fully back to ourselves. It is important to support the body and ensure a lasting, complete recovery by sticking with the Ayurvedic protocol to rebuild immunity even after the symptoms have passed and you no longer test positive. COVID Recovery Herbs may be purchased at YogaVeda Living. Paula runs an Ayurvedic Clinic and is happy to answer any queries you might have. Contact her directly by CLICKING HERE. To read more about Ayurveda, click here.