Firstly my heart goes out to all of those of you who are affected by fires here in Australia. My hope is that we this will soon be over. At the moment the main concern seems to be smoke inhalation. I am just reading in my local community group that in the cities we are also being affected by smoke.
I hope the following helps.
So much love to all at this very difficult time.
Natural Ways to Support Your Health When Affected by Smoke.
Steam inhalation 2-3 drops of an essential oil eucalyptus to boiled water in a stable pot or bowl, put a towel over your head and breathe in the steam. To help clear out sinuses. You can also add 1 drop of lavender oil as it is very calming to breathe in. Eucalyptus is also antimicrobial. So it will also will help reduce opportunistic respiratory infections while your immune system is low due to smoke exposure.
Increase water intake to 2lts to reduce throat irritation, dry nasal passages and coughing.
Herbal eyewash may help soothe irritated eyes. Herbs such as calendula, eyebright, or goldenseal should be available at health food store. You can purchase a pre-made mix or add a 1-2 drops of the herbal tincture to an eye bath.
Eat anti-inflammatory & antioxidant rich foods: ginger, turmeric, beetroot, green leafy vegetables, pineapple plus the pineapple core contains bromelain - anti-inflammatory enzyme) in juices. Berries; goji, blueberries, elderberries, cranberries. Fatty fish; mackerel, tuna, salmon, sardines. To support your immunes system and help reduce inflammation in your body.
Supplements: B vitamins to support your nervous system and detoxification. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) supports detoxification and helps reduce oxidative damage that may be caused by smoke inhalation. Vitamin C supports the immune system and is also an antioxidant reducing toxins in the body.
Herbal Stress Support: Withania / Ashwaghanda, lemon balm / Melissa off., passion flower, kava.
Herbal Immune support may include: Echinacea, marshmallow root, mullein, elecampane and licorice (not for those with high blood pressure).
Remember the key is to reduce exposure when possible. Smoke inhalation commonly happens when you get trapped in a contained area, so if there is of course no fire and you are in your home, close windows and turn on fans. Please take time for gentle soothing activities that soothe your soul and always ask for help when you need it.
Lifeline is available 24hours and have helpful information for those affected by natural disasters.
My love goes out to all, please take care.
Christine x
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Christine Carley is a bachelor qualified naturopath, with a focus on women’s health and wellness. She passionately supports her clients with, fertility and IVF optimisation, menopause and hormonal health as well as gut health. She spent most of her early clinical practice working with people with chronic and complex autoimmune condition, whilst working in a clinic with cardiologist, psychologists, podiatrist and allied health professionals. She loves assisting those stress, anxiety, fatigue and sleep. She is a passionate health ambassador who takes a holistic, person centred approach to the wellness model of health.
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