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Flu Busters
With the advent of Superfoods in my family’s lives, we very rarely (if ever) get any serious viruses. If we do get sick, it’s usually a mild version of what is floating around. It is highly unusual for any of us to get anything that keeps us down.
However, I do like to keep certain items around the home. It doesn’t hurt to be on the safe side and it’s nice to have something to share with friends and family. I used these items prior to our superfood supplementation with good success. And when I feel that I may be catching something or if I am exposed, I just boost my immune system with these items. It works like a charm! The most important key to minimizing symptoms is to catch whatever is coming on AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. Since all of these products are natural, it doesn’t hurt to take them even if you may not be catching something. Better safe than sorry.
A very powerful and effective homeopathic immune booster is a product called Oscillococcinum by Boiron. This product not only will lessen flu symptoms but also can actually keep you from getting sick if taken early enough or taken as a prophylactic during flu season (aprox. 1/week).
In my herbal medicine chest I keep a couple of great products. I prefer to use herbal tinctures, as they are easy to work with and seem stronger. They do tend to be a bit bitter which the grown-ups can handle, but for the kids there are some wonderful, good tasting tinctures by Herbs for Kids. I just mix them in apple juice and it’s no problem. For the more mature folks, I highly recommend Herb Pharms or Gaia Herbs. Herbs traditionally used for immune system boosting are Astragalus (used for prevention) and Echinacea and Goldenseal. Keep in mind that Goldenseal should not be used for extended periods of time. You can get them separately or in formula together.
Another great protector is garlic. Long known for it’s detoxifying properties, garlic is an ally which can be used on a regular basis with many health redeeming qualities. I find that the higher quality garlic supplements by Kyolic are very effective.
It is imperative, particularly with a cold, to reduce (if not eliminate) all dairy products. These encourage mucous formation, which is a magnet for respiratory bugs. And of course, hot tea, light meals and sleep are a must. Super hot baths are good, too, for fending off infection. Use high quality aromatherapy oils to enhance the benefits. Oils such as pine or eucalyptus are powerful adjuncts to a speedy recovery.
Let’s hope you don’t need any of these remedies. But if you do, I am sure they will assist your body in moving forward to healing and health. Good Luck!
