A stressed-out, run-down, undernourished immune system is a sure-fire way to leave your immune system at risk. Panic seems to circle the flu each year and as stated above most of the rise in cases is flu-like cases, not just the flu. Symptoms include fever, sore muscles, nausea, weakness, cough, diarrhea, vomiting, and a running nose. This points to a big need for a more proactive approach to giving the body what it needs to thrive. The flu, a viral-driven respiratory illness, can be a fatal condition if not properly addressed, especially if there are underlying immune complications. The traditional approach is medication to treat the condition (Tamiflu, etc) and vaccination. Below are my top 7 natural remedies to fight the flu if you are looking for an alternative to using drugs.
7 Natural Remedies to Help Fight Off the Flu or Cold
1. Oregano Oil
Oregano oil is high in phenols (Thymol, Carvacrol, and others) which have strong anti-microbial, anti-fungal, and anti-viral properties. Oregano oil is almost more important in preventing further cold and flu complications than it is in combating the virus itself. It has been shown to be as effective as antibiotics without all the side effects. As a precaution cut the oregano oil with olive or coconut oil to increase surface area and effectiveness, and decrease irritation as it can cause dermal or mucous irritation. Opt only for pure oregano oil made from Origanum vulgare and Thymus capitatus instead of commercialized lower-quality sources.
2. Vitamin D (4,000 – 8,000 IU Daily Depending on Blood Levels)
Direct correlation and common sense say the flu is almost exclusively present during colder winter months. The correlation between proper Vitamin D levels and flu prevention is perhaps the most well-studied natural alternative. Low vitamin D levels have been shown to increase the flu and infections. The more northern a person lives the more vitamin D is essential. Direct sunlight is a great source but in the winter months supplementation is a must. It plays a vital role in recovering and protecting against further flu complications as well.
3. Elderberry (100 – 1000mg Daily During Symptoms)
One of nature’s most powerful antiviral herbs. The herb, and its antioxidant flavonoids, have been shown to increase cytokines in the body’s immune system to increase the defense. This proves to be one of the best flu fighters there are. Elderberry research shows flu symptoms being resolved in just two days. More effective than dangerous medications like Tamiflu, without the side effects of psychological disturbances and delusion.
4. Echinacea (300 – 900mg Daily Depending on Body Weight)
A true cold and flu fighter echinacea herb shortens the duration and severity of colds and other upper respiratory infections (URIs) when given as soon as symptoms become evident. On top of that, it has been shown to be great for inflammation, concentration, asthma, and more. To get the proper therapeutic dose to choose supplementation as drinks and teas seem to not be high enough.
5. Andrographis (50 – 300mg Daily)
This herb native to India has a positive effect in the treatment of acute upper respiratory tract infections and also relieves the inflammatory symptoms of sinusitis. The study suggests a 33% reduction in the common cold when taken regularly. The extract of the plant has been shown to be a powerful antimicrobial, cytotoxic, anti-protozoan, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-infective, and immune booster. As a precaution do not take while pregnant just to be safe.
6. Chiropractic Care
The central nervous system is the master controller of all functions in the body, including the immune system. Studies show a chiropractic adjustment, that alters the central nervous system, has a profound effect on the short and long-term immune system, cold and flu prevention, and recovery.
7. Vitamin C (1000+ mg Multiple Times Daily)
A staple known by most has shown to significantly reduce cold and flu-like symptoms when taken properly. Test subjects saw an 85% reduction in symptoms when taking multiple high doses of vitamin C. To find your maximum effective dose take 1000mg doses every several hours until one experiences lose stools and then back down. Avoid sugar-filled sources and poor quality (corn) sources of vitamin C, as those work against the immune system.
A Precautionary Note
The research points to there being a much safer, less toxic method of dealing with the flu. The above is the opinion of Dr. Livingood but of course, do not put yourself at risk and be sure to consult with a physician if you have or suspect you have the flu. The best defense for the flu remains to be never getting it in the first place! Prevention is key. As a bonus here are Five Ways to Fend Off the Flu.
Five Ways to Fend Off the Flu
1. Rest
The reason our body goes into “sick” mode in the first place is that it needs to fight! If viruses, bacteria, and invaders get into our bodies then our bodies must get them out. It does so by coughing, sneezing, snotting, throwing up, going to the bathroom, and sterilizing (fever). If the body is not spending all its energy eating and stressing throughout the day then it can spend all its time healing. Rest and sleep, 7-9 hours daily, are essential for prevention.
2. Chiropractic Care
There are numerous studies showing the correlation between regular spine and nervous system care increases immunity. For example, spinal care shows an increase in IgA immunoglobulin by 139%. As well as increases in IgG and IgM through other studies. Finding the right doctor is crucial to ensure a proper analysis as well as a specific focus on pre and post-testing to ensure optimal results.
3. Vitamin D
As covered in the flu remedy section vitamin D is an essential flu fighter and powerful to fend it off. In fact research points to vitamin D being as effective and even more effective at preventing the flu than the flu shot. Overall, the study said one person would be spared infection for every 33 taking vitamin D supplements. The flu vaccine needs to treat 40 to prevent one case. In some studies, it reduces incident rates by nearly 50%. Get your blood levels measured and target over 50ng/mL. The dosage of high-quality vitamin D3, of 5,000ius+ daily, helps achieve these levels.
4. Probiotics
Good bacteria, or probiotics, make up and interact with 60-80% of the immune system. Harmful medications like antibiotics, poor nutrition, toxins, and stress decrease the gut’s good bacteria and weaken the immune system. For example, the power of multi-strain probiotics in children was shown in a 2009 study to reduce fever incidence by 72.7%, coughing incidence by 62.1%, and rhinorrhea incidence by 58.8%. Antibiotic use and missed days of school were also decreased. Multiple, highly resistant strains are the key. The probiotic dosage should be 10-50 Billion CFUs daily, depending on the weight, of Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strands.
5. Cut the Sugar
The American Association of Cancer Research has shown the direct link between increased sugar intake and the weakening of the immune system and an increase in inflammation. Cancer levels increase with an increased carbohydrate diet, let alone colds and flu.
A diet in superfood antioxidants like blueberries, green leafy vegetables, citrus fruits, and healthy fats is a combative formula for warding off immune system dysfunction. A breakfast smoothie is a simple and quick way to get immune-boosting foods in.
Sources
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2945351/
https://www.eurosurveillance.org/content/10.2807/1560-7917.ES.2018.23.5.18-00035
https://www.bbc.com/news/health-38988982
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20219962/
https://publications.aap.org/pediatrics/article-abstract/124/2/e172/72392/Probiotic-Effects-on-Cold-and-Influenza-Like?redirectedFrom=fulltext
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