We are well and truly in the flu season now. Apparently, it’s the worst outbreak in seven years. It certainly feels like everyone I know has had it lately, so perhaps the papers are right. Fortunately, this time round I managed to get better at home without needing the doctors help. As an asthmatic I must be careful.  But I have had the flu jab so perhaps that helped with my recovery. I also made sure I did everything I could do to get well, steaming regularly, using Jakemans menthol sweets and taking it slowly whilst my body recovered.

Fans Of Jakemans Menthol Sweets

We use Jakemans menthol sweets whenever we have a sore throat and are feeling under the weather. These sweets have been around for over a hundred years. It’s quite incredible to think just how many people would have been helped in that time since Jakemans were first established way back in 1907. Jakemans products are full of natural ingredients and really do soothe your throat and open your passages with the effective vapour action. It’s no wonder they are still hugely popular today.

I like how good they taste especially the cherry variety! The full range includes Throat & Chest, Honey & Lemon, Cherry, Peppermint, Menthol & Eucalyptus, Blackcurrant and Blueberry so there really is something for everyone. I feel happier giving my family a natural remedy when they are unwell, one without artificial flavours and colours.

This product does make a difference! My husband works as a practise manager at the local doctors and they do get a lot of people that would be best at home self-medicating, using products like Jakemans and getting plenty of rest. But instead everyone wants antibiotics straight away which won’t help with viruses. It’s frustrating because understandably the patients just want a quick recovery. However in those situations, it won’t do the trick sadly.

Marvin Munzu Myth Buster Tips

Given my husband’s background I am only too keen to share Jakemans Health Care Professional, Marvin Munzu Myth Buster Tips because it might make it easier for some of you to get better at home.

1) Antibiotics relieve most sore throats (MYTH)

Majority of sore throats are caused by viruses and antibiotics are ineffective.

2) Most sore throats are self-limiting and can be treated at home (FACT)

Most sore throats heal themselves within 5 – 7 days without prescribed medication.

3) Dusting and cleaning your house can help relieve sore throats (FACT)

Certain sore throats are caused by allergies avoiding triggers can help you.

4) Smoking irritates sore throats (FACT)

Cigarettes can irritate sore throats by thickening mucus and irritating the airways.

5) Ice creams are good for sore throats (MYTH)

Viruses and bacteria grow in a sugar environment, so it can lead to more irritation.

6) Cold weather causes sore throats (MYTH)

Sore throats are caused by virus, although viruses thrive in cold weather, you have a higher chance of getting a sore throat inside a house with someone sneezing.

7) Alcohol eases sore throats (MYTH)

Too much alcohol could lead to dehydration, which has the potential to worsen a sore throat.

8) Lozenges are the only medicine to treat sore throats (MYTH)

There are various forms of medications to treat sore throats including sprays and antiseptic solutions. Sucking on menthol sweets and lozenges help to soothe a sore throat, easing discomfort and pain symptoms

9) Gargling salt water eases a sore throat (FACT)

Salts help reduce inflammation, therefore reducing pain and discomfort.

10) Sore throats and tonsillitis are the same thing (MYTH)

A sore throat, alongside other symptoms, such as a high temperature, difficulty swallowing, hoarse or no voice and coughing, are symptomatic of tonsillitis.

11) Exercising worsens sore throats (FACT & MYTH):

Studies by the American College of sports medicine show that low to moderate exercises such as walking swimming, stretching, cycling, yoga may be beneficial for sore throats by boosting the immune system. However, high intensity exercise may suppress the immune system and therefore should be avoided during sore throats.

12) Marshmallow improve sore throats (FACT)

Studies show that marshmallow root contains a substance called mucilage which forms a gel with water which coats the throat and reduces irritation.

13) Kissing can spread a sore throat (FACT)

Viruses and bacteria are contained in saliva and can spread by kissing.

14) School children are more likely to suffer sore throats than university students (FACT)

Children and teenagers are more likely to develop sore throats than university students because their immune systems are less developed compared to adults.

15) You don’t need to see a doctor with a sore throat (FACT & MYTH)

Most sore throats do not require a doctor. However, if symptoms are severe and do not heal within two to three weeks then consult your doctor.