For many people, spring is an exciting time that heralds in warmer weather and a welcome respite from a long cold winter. But for allergy sufferers, spring is a time of itchy eyes, runny noses and nasal congestion. This is the beginning of pollen season. But when it comes to helping ease the symptoms of allergies, the use of natural ingredients really shouldn’t be sneezed at. In fact, it is estimated that nearly half of all human pharmaceuticals now in use were originally derived from natural sources.
Take honey for example. This popular natural treatment choice has been used for centuries. Homeopath Dr Ebrahim Essop explains, “Honey is a known, natural anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antifungal, antibiotic and antimycotic agent. Through the ages, honey has been used as a cough suppressant and may have anti-inflammatory effects. It is widely used in the manufacture of natural cough syrups.”
When someone experiences allergy symptoms, the mucous membranes become inflamed and produce more mucous as a defence mechanism. This can lead to uncomfortable, irritating symptoms that can affect everyday life. Interestingly, tea can help.
“Infusions of certain types of tea have been used for hundreds of years to alleviate the symptoms of allergies,” says Dr Essop. “The most common teas used as a herbal solution to treat the symptoms of allergies are green tea, turmeric tea, ginger, rooibos, lemon peel, peppermint and nettle teas.”
These can help to reduce inflammation and provide relief of these symptoms. According to Dr Essop, these teas contain antioxidant properties which can help the body to resist viral infections.
Meeting these lifestyle trends, the Libstar family has a diverse portfolio of products across different categories. These include Goldcrest Honey which is 100% natural and responsibly sourced. The new Goldcrest honey variants have been “infused” with herbs, extracts and spices to not only intensify the flavour of the honey, but to also enhance its health benefits. These include Lemon & Ginger to help soothe the symptoms of colds and sinus infections, Chilli which assists in boosting immunity and Lavender & Chamomile, known to relieve nausea and reduce anxiety and stress.
Exclusive to Woolworths and manufactured by Cape Herb & Spice is the new range of teas that take infusion to the next level. The range includes pleasantly sweet and tart Blueberry; the perfect balance of warm and fragrant Ginger & Turmeric as well as the traditional Vanilla with a bold bergamot twist.
“We work collaboratively with our retail partners to meet changing consumer needs and lifestyle trends, including health and wellness. We’re excited to introduce these new, innovative ranges from across the Libstar family,” says Johan Greeff, Libstar’s chief growth officer.
The new Goldcrest Honey range and the Woolworths Infusion tea range from Cape Herb & Spice will be available on shelves from October. For more information, click here.
