Donna Easto C.H., H.C., M.H., Certified Herbal Consultant
Your immune system is always on the job, keeping a record in its memory cells of each germ it defeats. If a known villain enters your body again, the immune system springs into action to destroy the microbe before it can multiply. Unfortunately, some viral infections, like the flu and common cold, have to be battled again and again when variants of the viruses that cause these illnesses begin to circulate. And, catching a cold or flu from one virus does not guarantee you immunity against the variants.
A healthy diet of natural foods with high-quality fats and protein, lots of fresh vegetables and low sugar can give your hard-working immune system needed support. In addition, some natural supplements are helpful. The main ones are, Protein: organic meats, eggs, beans and legumes, and nuts; Zinc: especially helpful if you’ve used a lot of antibiotics in the past, oysters and pumpkin seeds are rich sources; Iron: if you are vegan or vegetarian make sure you have enough iron in your diet; Probiotics: taking Zinc and a general probiotic that contains Lactobacillus, Saccharomyces, and Bifidobacterium strains has proven to prevent common respiratory infections.
You’ll find plenty of spices and herbs with antiviral and immune-boosting properties in your kitchen, but first let’s look at one you may not have on hand, Andrographis. Andrographis is an effective herb for preventing and treating colds, bronchitis, viral sore throat and sinus infections. A combination of Andrographis and Siberian ginseng (Eleuthero) when used within 72 hours of the onset of symptoms, is particularly helpful in treating a cold. Andrographis is not for use during pregnancy.
- Black pepper, immunity booster and antiviral. A study done in 2020 reported that “the bioactive compounds from black pepper such as piperdardiine and piperanine are considerably active against COVID-19, which can be further used for its treatment.”
- Cinnamon, several scientific studies have shown the antimicrobial, antiviral, antifungal, antioxidant, antihypertensive, antidiabetic, antitumour, gastroprotective and immunomodulatory effects of cinnamon (Shen et al, 2012).
- Cloves, the main component of cloves, is eugenol (Neveu et al., 2010) which exhibits broad antimicrobial activities against Gram +, Gran – bacteria as well as fungi.
- Ginger, is antiviral and used to treat aches, pains and digestive symptoms of fever, and colds and flu. Studies into ginger showed effective antiviral activity against a number of viruses including SARS-CoV-2, influenza and herpes simplex. (Admas, 2020 et al) A strong ginger tea using freshly grated ginger is tasty and therapeutic.
- Turmeric (Curcumin,) the antiviral activity of Curcumin was observed against a number of viruses, including SARS coronavirus, influenza and herpes simplex.
- Holy Basil, antiviral Holy Basil (Tulsi) has been shown to increase immunity and help fight viral infections by significantly increasing the levels of the immune cells that help protect and defend your body from viral infections.
- Elderberry, effective in treating flu in both adults and children. Most potent if you start taking it within two days of onset of symptoms. Can be taken in pills, capsules, or delicious Elderberry syrup.
- Garlic, immunity booster, antiviral and antibacterial – add lots to your daily diet. If you have the sniffles press one clove, mix with a teaspoon of local organic honey and eat from the spoon. Repeat 1-2 times a day.
- Oregano oil, proven to reduce the activity of MNV norovirus, the primary cause of stomach flu.
NEXT: RECOVERY AFTER COVID
