Natural Treatments for Flu Prevention
Avoiding H1N1 and Common Viruses with Home Remedies
Nov 10, 2009
Faced with a media barrage about the dangers of swine flu and the common flu, many people are focused on steering clear of viruses these days. While concerns about the safety and efficacy of flu vaccines are growing, there are time-honored natural treatments for flu prevention that are safe and available.
Naturopathic Flu Prevention
The followinghomeopathic treatmentsare effective in preventing the flu:
Influenzinum 30X: This is a naturopathic remedy produced by Boiron and packaged in a small blue tube. It looks like tiny sugar pellets, which are dissolved under the tongue. Influenzinum has been used for over 150 years with strong results in flu prevention. To maximize its effectiveness, take a dose once a week for four weeks at the start of flu season, and then take a final dose three weeks later.
Oscillococcinum: Also manufactured by Boiron, this preventative is sold in many common drug stores and has been proven in many clinical trials to be effective in thwarting flu when taken within 24 hours of general flu malaise. It’s important to remember to take this when no specific symptoms are yet present, at the first sign of feeling run-down and pre-flu.
Home Remedies for Flu Prevention
There are several practices one can do at home that cost little or no money and are helpful in boosting immunity, while preventing the proliferation of flu viruses:
Hot Lemon Water: This is a good natural treatment for not only preventing and alleviating a sore throat and congestion, but it’s also suggested to clean out the lymphatic system. Squeeze one lemon (or part of one) into a mug of hot water and add a dash of Tabasco or cayenne pepper. Add a bit of maple syrup if you prefer it sweet, and stir. Drink on an empty stomach daily in the morning and before bedtime.
Gargling:Simple yet effective—gargle morning and night with Listerine or salt water.
Reduce your refined sugar intake:Sugar can lower your body’s immunity.
Cleaning out nasal passages:The use of a neti pot or using a cotton swab to coat the inside the nostrils with salt water has shown to be effective in preventing flu.
Garlic:Garlic has anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties, and is a great immunity booster. Use extra in your cooking, or take in pill form.
More of the good stuff:Yes, it’s advice people already know but often forget to follow. Yet doing the following has real benefits in flu prevention: eat more fruits and vegetables, drink lots of water and warm liquids, get sufficient rest, and continue to exercise regularly.
Helpful common knowledge:Wash hands frequently and keep them off the face.
Supplements and Botanicals For Flu Prevention
For an immunity power-boost and to maintain healthy mucus membrane tissue, which helps to prevent infection, the following supplements are suggested for an average healthy adult without any other chronic illnesses and not on other medications*:
- vitamin C, 1000 mg, three times a day, for up to five consecutive days
- beta carotene, 25,000 IU per day
- zinc, 15 mg per day–especially helpful when a sore throat first hits
- vitamin E, 400 IU per day
*Those with chronic conditions and/or on medication should consult a doctor.
Several botanical preparations are also extremely useful in the natural prevention of flu. They are as follows:
- astragalus membranaceous–for immune system enhancement
- goldenseal–an anti-bacterial for mucous membranes
- elderberrry–supports respiratory system
Homeopathic remedies and supplements can be found in health stores, holistic pharmacies, and on many natural treatment sites online.
Whether or not one has taken a flu vaccine, which is never 100% effective against all strains of flu, following these alternative treatment tips will fortify the immune system and lessen the chances of contracting a virus. And as they say about chicken soup, it couldn’t hurt!
Sources:
Laura Josephson, CCH, RSHom (NA) www.nyackhomeopathy.com
Dr. Vinay Goyal, MBBS,DRM,DNB (Intensivist and Thyroid specialist)
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