There are two things that herbs may be able to help with when dealing with colds and the flu. Some herbs may help boost the immune system, in the hope of preventing infection. Others may help with the symptoms, easing the discomfort of those stricken.
Immune system herbs include echinacea, goldenseal, and astragulus. These herbs, taken together or individually may increase your body's ability to ward off illnesses, or to make the "catching" lighter.
It is important to point out that none of these herbs should be taken on a regular basis. Because they do affect the immune system, they can, if overused, cause problems. Begin taking them when you have been exposed or think you have been exposed, but don't take them for more than two weeks at a time. Then, wait at least two weeks before taking them again.
Some people believe that taking ginseng will also boost the immune system. However, when one is ill, that may not be a good idea. If bronchitis is suspected, or if any form of rheumatoid illness is present, ginseng should be avoided, as it has the potentail of making those ailments worse.
Herbs for Upper Respiratory Illnesses
The flu can take two forms, and some variations of the flu may take both. Upper respiratory flu usually includes headache, sore throat, coughing, fever and fatigue. Tightness in the chest and ear aches are also liikely. Major body aches frequently accompany the other symptoms.
Willow bark and feverfew may ease the fever and pain, due to the salicin content. Anyone who is allergic to aspirin, however, should avoid these herbs, as they could trigger a reaction.
A favorite home remedy for sore throats is a combination of honey and lemon, mixed with equal parts of each. Besides the fact that it tastes pretty good, it can be taken as needed, where other herbs cannot.
Licorice root is also soothing to a sore throat. This herb coats the throat, which in turn eases the pain. Licorice should not be taken by people with high blood pressure, as it will raise it.
Coughing can be a good thing, if it is productive. It's the body's way of trying to clear out the lungs. However, it is painful. There are some herbs that may quiet the cough reflex, allowing some relief from the pain. One of them is wild cherry bark.
This bark is made by decoction; simmering it for a time, rather than as an infusion, or tea. It should be pointed out that this decoction should be taken no sooner than every four hours, as taking it to frequently can cause side effects that are very unpleasant.
Another combination that might ease coughing is probably in your spice rack as you read this. This is a combination of cinnamon, cloves and allspice, simmered together. Ginger can be added, but if there is any hint of a sore throat, it's best left out. It makes the mixture very spicy.
If congestion is present, a mixture of vinegar and water, boiled together, may help relieve it. The steam from this mixture is the valuable part. It doesn't smell very good, but it can be helpful.
Herbs for Stomach Flu
Part of the problem when dealing with the stomach flu is finding something that won't come back up. There are times when it's better to do nothing than to add more work for the digestive tract.
However, there are a few things that can be done. As mentioned above, licorice root coats the entire digestive tract, including the stomach. This could ease the nausea and vomiting. Also, as mentioned above, do not use licorice root if you have high blood pressure. Peppermint tea is also soothing to the stomach.
Diarrhea often accompanies nause and vomiting with the stomach flu. There are several herbs and common foods that may help, and some are helpful for both problems.
Surprisingly enough, the apple is a good example. While it does cause digestive problemf (all of the time) for those sensitive, a raw apple can help deal with diarrhea in those not sensitive. Blackberries and raspberries may also help.
Slippery elm is another, helping both nausea and diarrhea. It is usually made like oatmeal, and eaten. If it is from the inner bark of the tree, it is also very nutritious. Unfortunately, most of the slippery elm sold is from the outer bark, in order to spare the life of the tree.
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