Herbs for viruses

Colder periods of the year, fall and winter, are the times of the year when people become more prone to infections, injuries and fever. However, there are some proven winter health tips that can help get us through to the spring while staying healthy and in a good shape.

The first and the most important tip would be to understand that flu and common cold cannot be cured or even prevented by antibiotics. Antibiotics are effective only against bacteria, while different types of viruses cause flu and the common cold. Taking antibiotics as a preventive measure may even be hazardous to health and create antibiotic-resistant germs. This means antibiotics won’t work against bacteria causing infections to the body. Further complications may imply long hospital stays, an increased need for medications, more doctor visits and in some serious conditions it may even cause death.

Antipyretic medications, ibuprofen and acetaminophen, as well as the other non-prescription medicine, can be effective in easing the symptoms of flu and cold and helping patients feel more comfortable. However, there are some great proven natural solutions in fighting and even preventing health problems common for colder days.

Garlic

Garlic possesses antibacterial, anti-fungal and antiviral properties and thus makes a perfect natural solution for improving the immune system. Substances called allicin, found in garlic, have anti-bacterial properties similar to weak penicillin. Cooked garlic loses a great deal of its anti-bacterial agents, so it is better to consume it in a raw form. However, even cooked it provides benefits. The perfect dosage would be one bulb of raw garlic per day. Patients may dice the raw bulb into a couple of pieces, wrap them with honey and swallow each piece with water.

Teas and gargles

Hot teas with the addition of ginger, elderberry fruit, lemon, honey, and cayenne pepper may help against cold chills, sore throat and ease the symptoms of flu.

Ginger and cayenne pepper in tea will help to encourage healthy sweating and clearing sinus congestion. Juice from one whole lemon and a couple of spoonfuls of honey will work as an antiseptic on the throat and supply a great quantity of vitamin C that boosts the immune system.

Elderberry helps to relieve symptoms of flu by relaxing mucus in the lungs and improving the body’s immune system. Bioflavonoids, found in fruit, have the ability to neutralize viruses so the regular use of elderberry syrup may significantly shorten the period of sickness.

A mixture of organic apple vinegar and water will make an effective homemade gargle. It helps reducing swollen tissue and fighting fungi, bacteria and viruses. One or two tablespoons of vinegar in 6 to 8 oz. of warm water will make a perfect proportion. One tablespoon of honey may be added to enrich the flavor. The first mouthful of the solution should be used as a gargle and then spit out, the second one should be swallowed.