Why is it that some people are more susceptible to catching a cold and others breeze through the flu season without even a sniffle? The answer to this is the strength of our immune systems capability.
The immune system is the body’s defence force that protects the body against unwanted pathogens such as viruses and bacteria. Cold and flu symptoms such as mucous and fever are the result of the body trying to reduce the survival time of a virus or bacteria. (4)
For the immune system to function optimally it must have the right ingredients to optimise its fighting power. Nutritional co-factors such as vitamins and minerals have been proven to support immune system function. Herbal medicines are equally as effective to help fend off cold and flu symptoms as well as boost immune competence.
Symptoms associated with colds & Flu:
§ Fever (hot and cold chills)
§ Sore throat
§ Cough (dry and chesty)
§ Runny or stuffy nose
§ Headaches
§ Muscle aches and pains (more specific to flu symptoms)
§ Fatigue (extreme fatigue is more indicative of flu)
Immune Booster Recommendations:
§ Flaxseed or Fish oil: Polyunsaturated fatty acids found in flaxseed and fish oil help to reduce inflammation and increase immune function. (5)
§ Vitamin C increases anti-viral and anti-bacterial activity in your body; it also stimulates white blood cell response to destroy unwanted micro-organisms.
§ Zinc is very important in restoring immune function. It is a vital component of white blood cell activity; it destroys pathogens and protects the body from toxicity.
§ Vitamin A can help to provide a protective surface barrier of the respiratory and gastrointestinal tracts, therefore preventing microorganisms from entering the body. It has also demonstrated increased antibody response and stimulates white blood cell activity.
§ The herb Echinacea was and is traditionally used by the native people of Northern America . It is used to enhance the body’s natural resistance to viral and bacterial infection. Echinacea currently has the most evidence based data than any other herb in Western herbal medicine. It has a particular affinity to prevent and alleviate upper respiratory infections such as tonsillitis, mucous production and sinus infections. (4, 5)
§ Olive leaf helps to fight against viral and bacterial infections, and has shown to be highly beneficial when fending off the common cold and flu.
§ The homeopathic remedy Allium cepa 6C can be used to treat symptoms such as persistent sneezing, runny nose and a tickling cough. (2)
§ Homeopathic Natrum muriaticum 6C is useful when treating a runny nose with clear to white mucous, sinus congestion and sneezing. (2)
§ Homeopathic Kali sulphuricum 6C can be used to treat colds that have yellow nasal discharge. (4)
§ Aromatherapy: Essential oils such as Eucalyptus, Peppermint and Menthol can be used as an inhalant to relief nasal congestion. Add a few drops of each to hot water and inhale. (4)
§ Herbal teas are great to sooth a sore throat and warm the body. Try ginger, lemon and honey. (1)
§ Cooking with horseradish or eating small amounts of wasabi (Japanese condiment) will help to alleviate sinus congestion. If you find spicy food unbearable supplementing with a tablet may be a better option. (4)
§ Cook with Reishi or Shiitake mushrooms.
§ Soups are an excellent nutritive healing food. The hot liquid helps to ease congestion and warm the soul. Add plenty of garlic to activate natural antibiotic properties. (1)
§ Wash your hands frequently and avoid rubbing your eyes. This will help to prevent recontamination
Speak to a qualified Naturopath, Herbalist or Nutritionist to have an individual treatment plan made up for you. Herbal mixtures can be made up to suit your symptoms, immune system capability and other associated factors.
References:
1. Davis, C. and Speer, S. (2006). Foods & News that Fight Colds and Flu. Canadian Journal of Health & Nutrition; Alive Publishing , Canada
2. Duelli, N. (2005). It’s Sniffle Season. Treat Colds and Sinus Congestion with Homeopathy. Canadian Journal of Health & Nutrition; Alive Publishing , Canada
3. La Valle, J. and Hawkins, E. (1998). Colds and Flu: A Natural Approach. Drug Store News, Vol. 20 (20).
4. Sahelian, R. and Toews, V. (1999). Give Colds the Shoulder. Better Nutrition, Vol. 61 (10).
5. Starbuck, J. (1998). Team Up with Natural Immune Boosters. Better Nutrition, Vol. 60 (11).
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