Herbs for Colds and Flu

NOW IS THE TIME TO GET READY AND STOCK YOUR HERBAL SUPPLY

I've never taken a flu vaccine because (a) it's not guaranteed to prevent me from getting the flu (because the flu vaccine is made long before the actual flu strain of the season is even known) and (b) the flu vaccine is prepared in a base of substances I'd rather not take into my body and have challenge my immune system. 

So what do I do? I prepare for the season with what I call my Cold and Flu Arsenal and bring it out at the first sign that 'something's coming.'  My Arsenal consists of the following antimicrobial substances:

 Echinacea: This is the first medicinal herbal I go for.  It must be in the liquid, alcohol extract form (even for children...Echinacea is water AND alcohol soluble so taking it in tablets, capsules, teas or in glycerin extracts is not potent enough).  Take 1/2 teaspoon diluted in a little water (actually I just take a swig right from the bottle!) every 2 hours.  I even keep a dose next to my bedside for when I wake up during the night.   In some circles, I’m known as the Echinacea Lady...I make a potent extract (a large 4oz bottle is $18 and has a long shelf life). If you catch “it” in time, you can totally avoid symptoms.  If symptoms develop, continue taking the Echinacea every 2 hours for a day or two, then 1 tsp – 3 times a day for a few days to diminish duration and severity of symptoms.

Vitamin C: I take this concurrently with Echinacea as it enhances the action of Echinacea.  I take 1000mg every 2 hours to bowel tolerance.  That means you know you've taken too much when it causes diarrhea.  That never happens to me because when I'm feeling like I'm about to get sick my body needs lots more Vitamin C than it normally does.

Probiotics: these are the bacterial cultures that help keep beneficial bacteria (the good guys) active in your intestines.  It is often said that the health of the body relies upon the health of the intestinal tract. Dose according to bottle instructions - take 2-3 times a day. I like Food Science's Megaprobiotic-ND  It’s shelf stable and does not require refrigeration making it easy to travel with. As soon as I’m feeling a bit “off” I always increase my Megaprobiotic intake to 3 capsules – 3 times a day...the brain of your immune system resides in your intestines.

Mucococcinum:  This is not the “Oscillo” product you see in health food stores.  This comes from Canada and is a homeopathic flu preventative.  You take 1 tablet every 2 weeks during flu season (November to April).  If you feel you are coming down with the flu you take a tablet 2-3 times a day (full directions accompany the product). It’s a terrific product.  (Manufacturer: Seroyal)  

Nutriferon: A great immune enhancer.  Stimulates production of interferon in the body. Good for people whose stress tends to make them prone to getting sick more often. 

Goldenseal: A dropperful, diluted in a little water or juice makes a great antibacterial and antiviral therapy...can be taken 3-4 times a day up to 10 days.  

 Garlic: This is a great anti-everything.  You can chop up a fresh clove or two, spread a piece of toast with olive oil and have health-promoting garlic bread. Most kids will be happy with antimicrobial garlic bread as their “medicine”.  Or, you can take it in deodorized tablets

Dr. Christopher's Immune Formula: a great anti-everything and high in garlic so it could be used instead of the garlic mentioned above.  Tastes like salad dressing (due to its apple cider vinegar content) and can be put in food or diluted in water or juice. For an adult, a teaspoon 2-3 times a day, ½ that dose for children.  Can be taken every few hours, if needed.  Great for relieving diarrhea. 

Dandelion Root: Perhaps overindulgence has stressed your liver?  A dropperful twice a day can help cleanse it. 

See why I call it an Arsenal?  Vigilance is key - if you want to be in charge of your wellness and stay healthy you've got to:

        ...be educated

                ...be prepared

                        ... be vigilant 

                            ...be tuned into your body so you are immediately aware when you are feeling 'off'. 

If you need help in locating any of the above please don't hesitate to contact me.

 

Please think about who you know that would benefit from this valuable information and share it with them.  It's a blessing to be able to help one another.

Until next time…stay healthy, think peace, be love and see love in everyone!

Andrea Candee

Andrea Candee is a master herbalist and holistic health counselor with a consultation practice in Westchester County, New York.  She does Meridian Health Assessments, computerized electro-dermal screenings, for taking a pro-active approach to preventative health.  Visit www.andreacandee.com to learn about the workshops she can bring to your area and about her award-winning book, Gentle Healing for Baby and Child…A Parent’s Guide (Simon & Schuster)…although written for parents, grandparents and caregivers, everything in the book can be used by adults as well!