Call for an instant quote 0345 90 80 161
Open Mon to Fri 09:00 - 17:30
Coronavirus FAQs
Questions about Coronavirus? Click here for more information. Please note that due to exceptional circumstances our opening hours are currently 09:00 to 17:30 Monday to Friday. Please contact us to amend your dates or cancel your policy.
21 May 2013 09:23
Asthma medications could be more effective if ginger is added to them
Ginger could help asthma treatment become more effective as it has been found to interact with drugs that relax the airwaves, according to US scientists.
Asthma attacks occur when the bronchial tubes that carry air into and out of the lungs tighten up and constrict, but in laboratory tests it was discovered that when components of the peppery root were added to medicines called beta-agonists, they increased the relaxation of airway smooth muscle (ASM) tissue samples.
The findings should give hope to people with the condition, but when it comes to travelling overseas sufferers should remember to arrange asthma travel insurance for added peace of mind.
Scientists from Columbia University took samples of human ASM tissue and deliberately caused them to contract by exposing them to the chemical acetylcholine. They then treated the samples with the beta-agonist isoproterenol mixed with three separate components of ginger - 6-gingerol, 8-gingerol and 6-shogaol.
Of the three, 6-shogaol seemed the most effective in increasing the relaxing effect of the beta-agonist. Further tests showed all three ginger compounds suppressed an enzyme linked to asthma symptoms.
The research was presented at the American Thoracic Society 2013 conference in Philadelphia.
09 March 2020
Move over hot cross buns and chocolate eggs, there's a whole world of Easter treats out there. Here are some alternative Easter foods from around the world.
[more...]
Forget egg hunts and bunnies, Easter's done a little bit differently in these corners of the world. Here five alternative Easter celebrations.
28 February 2020
Keep your carbon footprint in check and travel green with our eco-friendly travel tips.
25 February 2020
For true carefree travel, decide on a destination that's kinder to the planet...
20 February 2020
Travel into the future and not just through time-zones, with destinations shaping urban living.
National Anthem Day falls on the 3rd March, so what better excuse is there to delve into into the world of music and motherland?
Discover five alternative places to get down on one knee this leap year.
Two-wheels are better than none. Check out our favourite cities best explored from a saddle.
04 February 2020
Make your phone the perfect travel companion for the new year...
Bohemian boulevards and ornate opera houses await away from the Six Nations action.
Kite Flying Day falls on 8th February. What better time is there to plan your next trip through the skies?
10 February 2020
With Ferris Wheel Day on 14th February, there's never been a better excuse to enjoy a foreign skyline.