With the Cape winter on its way, its time to think about ways to protect yourself from winter problems.


The Cape winter is cold and wet and one of the best herbs to to help you through this time is the warming, drying and cheering daisy - Calendula officinalis.
Calendula is an immune boosting and protecting herb that belongs to the same plant family as the famous but misused Echinacea and is more suitable for long term use. Taken throughout the winter months, Calendula can work on the lymphatic and immune systems and help to prevent colds, 'flus and other problems typically experienced in winter, and is also good at helping to lift the mood of those that are prone to 'Winter Blues' or S.A.D. The petals or flower heads, fresh or dried, can be added to soups and stews, or made into a tea to be consumed daily or small amounts of the tincture (ethanol extract) can be taken in water.