How are coughs and colds affecting you and your business?

More than a quarter (26.2%) of days lost through sickness absence in 2017 were attributed to minor illness (such as coughs and colds). This adds up to 34.3 million days per year.

The cold and flu season is upon us, and unless you plan to spend this time travelling to work and sitting in meetings wearing a hazmat suit, you will need to take some action. As well as the usual good hygiene tips, there are some simple things you can do which were proved effective by somewhat unsavoury characters.

In 15th century France, as the town of Marseilles was being ravaged by the bubonic plague, it is believed that four thieves were able to rob the plague victims and escape without disease by using a blend of herbs and essential oils including garlic, eucalyptus, lemon, rosemary, clove and sage. The blend went on to be used by doctors, undertakers and grave robbers and is known as Thieves’ Oil or Marseille Blend.

The herbal blend contains several  antiviral and antibacterial oils. Many of these herbs are also used quite frequently during winter in cooking or in decorations, particularly around Christmas time. They are extremely useful to use in office spaces where air-conditioning or poor ventilation can help to spread airborne viruses.

A similar blend of these essential oils (maybe minus the garlic, unless you see this as a good option for keeping potentially germy people away from you) is perfect to have around your desk or burning in the office if suitable.

Atomiser Spray Blend
50 ml water
10 drops eucalyptus essential oil
10 drops lemon essential oil
10 drops clove essential oil

Spray the blend around your desk or workstation during the day (avoiding contact with the skin). Shake well before each use.