Herbal Remedies To Stonewall Flu Viruses

No one likes the idea of getting the flu, and for some people, such as young children and the elderly, it can be fatal. Conventional medicine does not have much to offer because the flu is a virus and viruses do not respond to antibiotics. Traditionally, herbs have been used worldwide to fight the flu and other viruses, and anecdotal evidence indicates that herbs can be very effective in these instances. However, herbs can also produce side effects. Before using herbs for the flu, consult your health practitioner to ensure they are right for your condition.

Goldenseal

Goldenseal is an herb native to North America and was used as far back as the early Native Americans to fight a variety of infections, both internal and external, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Goldenseal provides anti-viral and antibiotic protection to those suffering from the flu, notes "The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook." It boosts the immune system and may be useful in reducing the effects of both upper respiratory symptoms and abdominal symptoms like diarrhea. Goldenseal is used in combination with other herbs in prepared herbal tonics and can also be used on its own as an herbal tea. It is very bitter, so you may prefer adding a small amount of honey to make it more palatable. Goldenseal may produce irritation of the mucous membranes in the mouth and throat or cause a skin rash, making the skin light-sensitive to the sun. It can also raise your blood pressure and should not be used if you have hypertension unless under the direction of your practitioner. If you develop symptoms, stop using it and call your health practitioner.

Chrysanthemum Tea

Chrysanthemum tea is used in China to produce relaxation and calm as well as to clear the blood of toxins, according to the City University of New York. The tea may relieve insomnia and help you sleep more peacefully, allowing your body rest time to heal from the flu. In addition, chrysanthemum tea may provide antibiotic properties, helping to fight infections such as bronchitis and pneumonia, according to the "Helio Acupuncture Book, Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica." Some people may be sensitive to chrysanthemum and have allergic reactions. If you experience any symptoms from drinking the tea, stop and call your health practitioner.

Mullein

Mullein is used for the treatment of numerous acute conditions related to the flu, including sore throats, coughs, congestion and earaches. The herb is found in combination with other herbs in many herbal flu tonics as well as cough medicines. The dried herb is excellent when made into an herbal tea, helping to break up chest congestion and soothe coughing, notes "The Green Pharmacy Herbal Handbook." Mullein acts as an expectorant when given to relieve coughing, aiding you in bringing up tight, sticky phlegm and loosening the tightness in your chest.

Ginseng

Ginseng is used in Chinese medicine for enhancing the immune system and relieving a multitude of ailments, according to the "Helio Acupuncture Book, Chinese Herbal Medicine: Materia Medica." It may relieve upper respiratory conditions like coughing, sneezing and sore throats. The University of Connecticut Health Center reports that a compound found in ginseng helped to reduce the incidence of flu in an elderly population by 89 percent. These results were reported in the "Journal of the American Geriatrics Society" in January of 2004. UCHC adds that when ginseng is combined with herbs like echinacea and garlic, its efficacy is enhanced. Ginseng is available in many forms and the best place to buy it is at an herbal shop specializing in Chinese herbs. Look for the freshest herb you can find to ensure it is high in healing compounds. Consult your health practitioner before using ginseng to make sure it is the correct treatment for your condition.