5 Must Haves During Cold and Flu Season  

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Echinacea



Echinacea has been used by America Indians for hundreds of years. It is native to the North America Plains, but varieties of the species are now found on most continents. This herb increases levels of properdin, a chemical which activates the part of the immune system responsible for increasing the defense mechanisms against virus and bacteria attacks.

Its anti-bacterial effect makes it a good herb for treating many viral and bacterial infections. Echinacea also helps to sweep dead cells and other debris through the channels of the lymphatic system and sends white blood cells to fight the infection. When you feel a cold coming on - take echinacea. It is important to try to take echinacea before the full onset of a cold or flu to give the best chance for a fast recovery.


Garlic



Garlic has anti-bacterial properties that help the immune system to fight infection, it is an excellent boost to the immune system. The reason for this is garlic contains several helpful compounds, including allicin, one of the plant kingdom's most potent antibiotics. Garlic combines well with echinacea and together make a strong fighting force against infections.


Ginger



Ginger is another of natures' antiviral herbs. It contains nearly a dozen antiviral compounds. Ginger is pain relieving, antiseptic and antioxidant. It is valuable for preventing and treating colds, sore throats and inflammation of mucus membranes. Ginger reduces pain and fever and has a mild sedative effect that will encourage rest. Drink a tea, or soak fresh ginger in hot water, take as a tincture and include it in your food.


Vitamin C



Vitamin C is very good for the relief of cold symptoms and to help the body fight infection. The best source of vitamins is always fresh fruit and vegetables. Citrus fruit is especially high in vitamin C. Combine orange, pineapple, seedless grapes, lots of fresh ginger, banana, pink grapefruit, cantaloupe in a blender. Add orange juice if more liquid is needed.


Goldenseal


Goldenseal is both antiseptic and immune stimulating, increasing blood supply to the spleen. The spleen is the bodies staging area for the fighting cells in your immune system. Berberine is present in goldenseal, and activates the special white blood cells which are responsible for destruction of bacteria, fungi, viruses and tumor cells.

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This entry was posted on Wednesday, January 18, 2012 at Wednesday, January 18, 2012 and is filed under , . You can follow any responses to this entry through the comments feed .

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