| Influenza |
 |
| Influenza or the flu is a highly contagious viral infection of the upper respiratory tract. Because it is spread so easily by coughing and sneezing, epidemics are common. The virus strains change all the time making vaccination difficult. The flu is rarely dangerous to otherwise healthy adults but in people over 65 or ones with impaired immune function, respiratory infections such as pneumonia can be very serious even leading to death. |
 |
 |
| Herbs useful for influenza Ginger Root- useful for the nausea that accompanies the flu. Use 2 capsules up to 4 times daily. Echinacea- One of natures best infection fighters. Builds the immune system. Take 2 capsules ever 4 hours. Goldenseal- A potent antibiotic ( sometimes works better than penicillan) Also very beneficial to the mucus membranes. 2 capsules up to 3 times daily Slippery Elm-Useful for coughs & sore throats. Mix 1 tablespoon slippery elm bark powder with 1 cup of boiling water & 1/2 cup of honey. Take 1 teaspoonof this mixture every 3 or 4 hours. Can be taken hot or cold. Cayenne- cayenne is a catalyst (helps other herbs work better) & also helps with the congestion & headaches. 1 capsule every 4 hours Garlic- Natures cure-all. Builds immune system, natural antibiotic & antiviral. Take in capsules or fresh cloves. 2 capsules every 4 hours Willow Bark- willow bark has many of the properties of aspirin with out aspirins side effects. Very useful for the aches which accompany the flu Mint- Mint is also helpful with the nausea. Make a tea of 1 teaspoonful per cup of boiling water. Steep for 4 minutes, strain, add honey to taste & drink. May be used as needed Vitamin C- Take 1000 mgs 3 times daily Comsuming plenty of fluids, juices, water & broth are helpful . Hot chicken or turkey soup should be considered. Yes, grandma WAS right about this Get plenty of rest & sleep. While your body is resting, it is also working to fight the infection, |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |