Herbs for colds and flu

Colds and Flu are Viral Diseases

Cold includes infection and inflammation of mucous membranes in the nose and throat. It is a viral disease so there is no point to use antibiotics which are used for bacterial infections.

Herbs and Other Natural Substances for Overcoming Cold and Flu

Symptoms such as redness and pain in the throat can be the first signs of a cold. Rinsing the throat by sage tea is very helpful in alleviating these symptoms. Propolis, Echinacea and sage in the form of spray or sucking tablets are also effective.

Painful joints, chills, headaches and blockage of nasal roads and discharge from the nose are a common symptoms sequel, if the body fails to overcome the virus in the beginning. Therefore, it is useful to strengthen the body by taking Echinacea for 6-8 weeks preventively, in order to stimulate the immune system to create killer cells.

Antioxidants, including the most famous vitamin C, are used to prevent the spread of infection and damage to cell structures. Some excellent sources of vitamin C are peppers, tomatoes, cabbage, cauliflower, oranges, lemons, and kiwi.

Willow bark is rich in salicylates, chemical that has the same structure as Aspirin which shows beneficial effects on body temperature reduction, pain and inflammatory processes.

Elder flower is traditionally used for treating colds and flu. Traditional tea mix for colds and flu containing equal parts of mint, yarrow and elder, should be drunk hot, one cup every two hours.

In the case of increased secretion from the sinuses and nasal mucosa, applying the inhalation with eucalyptus thyme, pine, cedar tea or essential oil may be very helpful.

Garlic may help due to its antiviral effects which are especially useful for children who are often affected by cough and colds. Its regular use during the flu season slows the development of symptoms and reduces need for using antibiotics, protecting the child from unnecessary development of resistance to antibiotics.

Zinc is another important immunity protector. Natural sources of zinc are red meat (pork, beef), grain cereals (unglazed), wheat germ, spinach, green beans, peas, eggs, milk, oysters, wine, pumpkin seeds and brewer's yeast.

Prevention

Proper and frequent hand washing is the best way to reduce the transmission of viruses, especially after sneezing, coughing or contact with someone or something that may be contaminated.

Also, regular exercise, antioxidants ( vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, selenium, grape seed extract), bioflavonoids from fruit, red wine, high doses of vitamin C and garlic or garlic supplements have great preventive effects.