Oscillococcinum is a homeopathic remedy suggested by health care practitioners for the treatment of flu-like symptoms, and should be taken at the first indication of feeling ill or run-down. Oscillo is "regulated as a drug by the FDA and is supported by published clinical studies as well as more than 65 years of use throughout the world," according to the manufacturers.
Clinical Studies
Boiron is the homeopathic pharmaceutical company that manufactures Oscillococcinum under the trademark name Oscillo. Clinical studies have shown that its flu remedy reduces the duration and intensity of flu symptoms, but does not prevent it. However, Dr. Albert Levy of the Manhattan Family Practice is quoted on Boiron's website as saying that during the flu season, he recommends to his patients with the flu that they take Oscillococcinum. Levy is also an assistant professor of medicine at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine.
Testimonials
Dr. Lauren Feder, a homeopath in practice in Los Angeles, wrote in Mothering magazine that "Oscillococcinum is useful for all types of flu, especially in the earlier stages. Many of my patients claim that Oscillo has greatly shortened the duration of their flu. It can be used for both children and adults."
Maureen Harrington, a media writer for People magazine, wrote in February 2009, "On the sets of "Gossip Girl" and "Grey's Anatomy," the homeopathic flu fighter Oscillococcinum (Oscillo for short) is a go-to remedy for the cast."
Safe and Readily Available
Oscillococcinum does not have side effects, according to Boiron, and to date does not have any known drug interactions. Regulated by the FDA, this homeopathic flu remedy is available over the counter at pharmacies, natural health food stores and many supermarkets. It doesn't have a strong taste and is safe for all patients, including the elderly, and children 2 years of age and older.
Ingredients
The active ingredients of Oscillococcinum "are officially included," according Boiron's website, "in the Homeopathic Pharmacopoeia of the United States." The remedy is made from the heart and liver of the wild duck because the wild duck is thought, by the manufacturers, to contain the influenza virus.
Undergoing a process known as the "Korsakov potentisation," a sample of the substance is placed in a test tube and, as Pharmacology Weekly further explains, "shaken and poured off." A water and alcohol solution is added to the test tube, thereby diluting the substance, which is then shaken again and poured, leaving behind a small residue to which more solution is added. The process is repeated 200 times. In theory, no material substance is left at the end of the process. It is this aspect that skeptics call into question when homeopathy is debated.
Considerations
Seek medical attention from a licensed health-care practitioner or medical doctor if a fever persists, or if flu symptoms worsen.
