The seasonal flu is caused by the influenza virus. While conventional medical treatments for the flu are limited, there are a number of natural herbal remedies that have anti-microbial and anti-viral properties. The following herbs are commonly found in natural health food stores and in many herb gardens. Always consult a physician or health-care practitioner before trying herbs or other alternative treatments.
Echinacea
Echinacea is an herb that is popular for treating both seasonal flu and the common cold. According to the Clayton College of Natural Health Herb Guide, it has anti-viral properties and strengthens the immune system. It increases white blood cell counts to help the body fight illness naturally. It is recommended only for short-term use, as the body can become adapted to it if taken over an extended period of time.
Elderberry
A 1995 Israeli study of elderberry extract showed it to be an excellent herb to combat viruses. The researchers found that 500 mg of elderberry extract taken two times a day reduced the severity of flu symptoms as well as the duration of the illness. In a study published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine in 1995, a small group of participants were found to recover from the flu three times faster when taking one capsule of elderberry extract, four times per day.
Garlic
According to the Clayton College of Natural Health Herb Guide, garlic is a natural antibiotic, has anti-fungal properties and is protective against influenza. During World Wars I and II it became known as the Russian penicillin. One study by Drs. Cole and Tsai from 1985 showed that garlic actually killed the influenza B virus in test tubes. Experts recommend 500 mg (or one clove) of garlic, up to three times per day at the first onset of flu symptoms.
Ginger
Although ginger is not specifically anti-viral, it is antibacterial. The Herb Guide states that it is also an excellent remedy for nausea and diarrhea associated with the flu virus. It is also useful as an anti-inflammatory, and has antioxidant effects. Antioxidants are important for preventing free radical damage and strengthening the immune system. Drinking fresh ginger tea during the flu may not only help relieve symptoms, but shorten the duration of the illness.
Peppermint
Peppermint is a very common herb, and you do not even need to go to a natural health food store to find it. It can be found in the produce section of the grocery store or grown quite easily in an indoor herb garden. Peppermint has been used by herbalists for centuries to treat headaches, colic, heartburn, gas and nausea. It has antibacterial properties and helps improve circulation. It is found in many herbal remedies because it is so versatile. Like ginger, drinking fresh peppermint tea during the flu may help relieve flu-like symptoms such as headaches, body aches and nausea.
