other bacteria. However, this only happens when garlic is applied directly to the bacteria. It is not known if garlic can fight off bacteria in the body like traditional antibiotics.
.....Ginger tea is my favorite remedy for an upset stomach or when my sinuses get congested. I slice approximately half an inch of fresh ginger, place it in a pot of water, bring it to a boil, and then let it simmer, covered, for about 10 minutes. Before serving, add a bit of lemon juice and honey to taste, to produce a tea that soothes the stomach, a sore throat and helps to clear the sinuses. In his book The Green Pharmacy, Dr. James Duke says that ginger contains compounds that have anti-viral properties that can help fight the common cold rhinovirus. Dr. Duke was a medicinal plant researcher, for the US Department of Agriculture, for 30 years.
.....Like garlic, ginger also has the ability to thin the blood. This is another reason why people who take blood-thinning medications, like warfarin, should consult their Doctor or Peoples Drug Mart Pharmacist about the possible interactions with herbs and supplements. Be cautious about "herbal decongestants" or "breath

better" herbal cold products. In some cases, they may contain an herb called Ephedra or ma huang. A clearing of the nasal and lung passages can be felt very quickly after taking it. However, other unwanted side effects can be: increased heart rate, blood pressure, nervousness and insomnia. People who have a heart condition, cardiovascular disease, asthma, or take thyroid medicine should not use these types of products. Check with your PDMP to see if these products are right for you.
.....There are many homeopathic products available to treat the various symptoms of colds and flus, but one product that stands out is Oscillococcinum. Several studies have shown its effectiveness in reducing the duration and severity of influenza-like symptoms. The advantage of homeopathic medication is that they don¹t interact with medications or conflict with medical conditions. Many Peoples Drug Mart Pharmacies carry a selection of homeopathic products, which are helpful in treating colds, flus, and other minor conditions. These medications work gently and may not be for everyone. Ask your Peoples Drug Mart Pharmacist for more information about homeopathics.

Continued On Page 8