Antivirals And Herbal Remedies

Viruses are tiny capsules that contain genetic material. They are significantly smaller than bacteria, and some of the most common infectious diseases -- warts, flu, common cold -- are caused by viruses. Viruses may also cause life-threatening illnesses, including HIV/AIDS and smallpox. Herbal remedies have long been used to help combat viral infections, although you should always clear the use of herbs with your doctor before using these powerful natural substances.

Viral Infections

Viruses need living hosts -- such as people, animals and plants -- to flourish. Viruses that enter your body invade certain cells, commandeer your cell's machinery and instruct your cells to multiply or produce other similar viruses. Eventually, your cells die and you become sick. Antibiotic medications -- medications that are commonly used to kill bacteria -- are ineffective against viruses. Vaccines are often used to help you from developing viral illnesses.

Antiviral Herbs

Many herbs may possess antiviral action. According to naturopathic physician William A. Mitchell Jr., author of "Plant Medicine in Practice," some of the most potent antiviral herbs include green tea, lemon balm, garlic, licorice and pau d'arco. Other herbs that possess antiviral action include paracress, lomatium, hyssop, cedar scales and astragalus. Further scientific scrutiny may be necessary to determine the true efficacy of these commonly used herbal remedies.

Featured Herbal Remedy

Garlic may be one of the most frequently used herbal remedies in treating or preventing viral infections. A 2001 study by Peter Josling published in the journal "Advances in Therapy," notes that an allicin-containing supplement is effective in warding off attack by the common cold virus. Allicin, a compound that possesses antimicrobial action, is one of the most important active constituents in garlic. Garlic also possesses antibacterial, anti-fungal and anti-parasitic properties, notes naturopathic doctor Sharol Tilgner, author of "Herbal Medicine From the Heart of the Earth."

Disclaimer

If you develop a viral infection, report to your doctor at your earliest possible convenience for a full and thorough checkup. Your family physician can counsel you on the safest and most effective treatment methods to resolve your ailment. Herbal remedies, though commonly used for this health purpose, are not without their own set of risks, and they should only be used if you are under the care of a licensed health care provider.