Turn to page 49 of October's The Simple Things for your free sample of Pukka tea. Put the kettle on, brew up and read on to discover why its ingredients are so beneficial.

IMMUNITY

Autumn glow

This season is a good time to consider how herbs can play a role in our wellbeing. More people use antibiotics at this time of year, as they’re commonly prescribed for upper respiratory tract infections, even though most coughs and flus are caused by viruses. But there are simple, natural solutions.

Purple magic

Elderberries are the autumnal fruit of the elderflower. They’re full of anti-viral, anti-inflammatory constituents including vitamin C, anthocyanins, lignans and flavonoids. Research shows that this humble hedgerow plant can deactivate 10 strains of flu virus as well as hasten recovery time.

As a syrup, its soothing qualities help calm irritated mucous membranes and coughs. Elderberry’s anti- spasmodic, airway-clearing properties ease painful spasms whilst gently clearing catarrh from the respiratory tract and sinuses. Pukka’s Elderberry Syrup is made from concentrated juice of elderberry with 10 other herbs. One daily dose supplies 12,000mg.

Other herbal heroes

Try these powerful herbs, teas and remedies next time you feel a chill.

Ginger: Grate some fresh ginger into a mug of hot water and lemon. Or sip Pukka’s Lemon, Ginger and Manuka Honey tea as soon as you feel a cold coming on.

Trikatu: This mix of ginger, black pepper and long pepper helps to blow away the cold. Mix half a teaspoon with honey to sweeten it or add to your favourite herbal tea.

Andrographis: A great all-round winter boost. Take two capsules twice a day.

Echinacea: This popular flower can help maintain the immune system. Try Pukka’s warming Elderberry and Echinacea tea.

Discover more about Pukka’s incredible organic herbs at pukkaherbs.com

GLOSSARY

Antibiotic
A substance that can destroy or inhibit the growth of microorganisms, especially bacteria. Antibiotics are not effective against viruses. Common antibiotics include penicillin and erythromycin.

Lignans
Chemical compounds found in plants that have antioxidant (stopping damage from free radicals) properties.

Anti-inflammatory
A substance that reduces signs of inflammation or swelling