Herbal medicine is one of a range of natural therapies that are increasingly being turned to as people seek out alternatives to the conventional medical approach of medicating the symptoms of illnesses and disease. Natural therapies generally have few or no side effects and do not involve invasive surgery – two attractive benefits that are proving popular with people from all walks of life.
What is Catarrh?
Catarrh is not a condition; rather it is symptom of an infection such as a cold or an allergy. It is characterised by an excessive production of mucus in the passageways of the body, as experienced when one has a cold. The production of excess mucus is the body’s way of protecting itself, as the mucus is designed to keep the sensitive internal membranes moist, while helping to flush out the source of the infection. Another source of congestion may result from allergic reactions or non-allergic reactions to environmental factors such as pollution or smoke.
Catarrh Symptoms
Catarrh is triggered by the response of your immune system, most typically when it is fighting an infection. The most common triggers that cause catarrh include infections such as the common cold, and allergic reactions to items such as pet fur, pollen and dust mites. Typical symptoms of catarrh include:
- Runny nose
- Headaches
- Hearing problems
- Persistent coughing
- Raw and irritated throat
- Excessive tiredness
Herbal Medicine
Herbal medicine is perhaps one of the oldest medical traditions, and has likely been in use since humans first sought out a treatment for diseases and conditions. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has a strong element of herbal medicine, and is one of the oldest medical traditions in existence. Herbal medicine typically utilises all the components of a plant, including the roots, stems, leaves and flowers. A number of plant species may also be combined to produce a remedy.
Herbal Medicine for Catarrh
A consultation with a herbalist will typically involve an evaluation of patient’s diet, lifestyle and general state of health. A remedy or selection of remedies will then be prescribed. Elderflower and peppermint are often prescribed for catarrh, while echinacea and garlic are helpful in boosting the body’s immune system. Ginger is also valued for its anti-viral properties, and is often prescribed as a tea.
To learn more about how herbal medicine can help with this condition, find a nearby herbalist in your area. Or you can also find out more about other effective natural catarrh treatments.
Originally published on Sep 30, 2010
