Preventing Colds and Flu Naturally

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Preventing infections is one of the many rewards a lifestyle change can bring. Starting with small steps, such as increasing your vitamin intake or introducing herbal therapy into your home can help combat the many colds and flus that are passed around every day. Even if you contract a cold or flu, the better prepared your body is for the fight the more likely you are to get well quickly.

A good way to start preparing now for cold and flu season is by reducing your exposure to toxic chemicals in your environment. Wash your hands several times daily, dress warmly in cold weather and make sure you are getting plenty of sleep. Incorporate lots of fresh vegetables, fresh fruit, herbal supplements, vitamins and some exercise. Another important key to bolstering your immune system is stress reduction. Stress is so hard on the human body that finding ways to reduce your stress level is vital.

There are many excellent natural remedies available to you for cold and flu treatments, such as 3-6 grams of vitamin C. Going against conventional wisdom, vitamin A can be even better than vitamin C; you may take up to 150,000 IUs per day for a week. While recovering from a cold or flu or to help prevent illness, add some extra garlic and onion to any dish you are cooking, as they both contain antiviral chemicals.

Supplements to ward off colds and flu:

Vitamins A, C, E

Highly beneficial antioxidant vitamins; helpful in maintaining a healthy immune system.

Beta-carotene

A carotenoid which makes fruit birhgtly colored; also helps prevent the buildup of toxins.

Selenium, zinc

Selenium is an antioxidant that works with Vitamin E to protect cells from free radicals and improve immunity; also helpful in white blood cell production. Zinc is key to the health of tissues and the immune system. Zinc is best absorbed when taken with food, specifically proteins.

Aloe vera

The juice of this rubbery plant is effective for numerous conditions including colds and inflammation.

Cat’s claw

From the Peruvian rainforest, a large creeping vine. Apparently helps everything from cancer to candida, to allergies, depression, and HIV. Highly antioxidant, antiviral, antitumor,and anti-inflammatory.

Echinacea

Increases production of white blood cells making it a valuable herb in fighting bacteria, viruses, and infection; boosts the immune system.

Sambucol

A natural product made form a black elderberry extract and is effective in inactivating virusess.

Garlic

Long known as a natural antibiotic, garlic contains the chemical allicin–a natural antibiotic.

Ginger

Used by the Chinese to treat morning sickness, travel sickness, indigestion, and nausea. Ginger also stimulates lung function. An infusion of finger and scallions is a natural remedy for colds and flu.

Goldenseal

Powerful tonic for mucous membranes.

Mushrooms, (maiitake, reishi, and shitake)

These mushrooms have been the focus of a lot of research in recent years. They stimulate the immune system and booster the body’s resistance.

Propolis

A resin obtained form the buds of some flowers and trees, propolis contains the natural antibiotic galangin. Galangin is used in various complementary remedies to treat low-grade infections.

St. John’s Wort

In Germany tablets of this traditional European herb are now prescribed for depression ten times more frequently than Prozac. It is also useful in treating Seasonal Affective Disorder.

Finding the right tools to avoid excessive antibiotic or synthetic drug use can save you more than money. A healthy nutrition plan is a great first step to helping your body prepare to prevent and fight infections. Herbs such as goldenseal, Echinacea, astralagus and lomatium can also be helpful. Working with a natural care practitioner, you can find the right combination for you. Always inform your healthcare provider of any medications or herbs you are ingesting, as they may interact.