Mother Nature's Antiviral Remedies

As winter approaches its end, people seem to be particularly vulnerable to all kinds of health imbalances. With the weakened immune response, the risk of contracting viruses that cause colds, flu, and cold sores increases.

 

Getting enough sleep, avoiding alcohol and cigarettes, and spending time in the fresh air can help improve overall health. However, the immune system needs a bit of an extra boost so it can fight diseases. In order to be able to prevent these ailments during winter months, it is important to understand the difference between viruses and bacteria.

 

Viruses are dependent on their hosts, meaning that they cannot survive without them. They cause diseases such as common cold and herpes by invading normal cells and using them to multiply themselves. On the other hand, most bacteria are harmless. Some even have beneficial properties for our organism, such as those that live in our guts.

 

Although harmful bacteria can be treated with antibiotics, there are very few allopathic or natural treatments that can kill a virus outright. However, natural remedies such as echinacea and garlic come as close to stopping a virus as Mother Nature can get.

 

Antiviral Foods and Herbs

Colloidal Silver

Silver has been used as a natural remedy since ancient times to treat ailments such as the bubonic plague. Nowadays, it is used to reduce the activity of HIV, slow down hepatitis C, and to combat other viruses in general.

 

You might wonder - What is colloidal silver? Colloidal silver is a suspension of pure metallic silver in water. It works by interfering with the enzymes that allow a virus to utilize oxygen. In essence, it suffocates the oxygen so it cannot harm the body.

 

Colloidal Silver 10 ppm from Sovereign Silver in the form of nasal spray would be my top choice.

 

Black Elderberry

The common black elderberry (Sambucus nigra) has long been used to reduce the length and severity of flu symptoms. Black elderberry benefits are numerous. Both flowers and berries are full of vitamins B, B6, and C. They are also abundant with antioxidants that positively affect the body’s immune response.

 

Black elderberry is famous for its antiviral properties. Its extract binds to the tiny spikes on a virus protein that are used to pierce and invade healthy cells. Once bound to the spikes, elderberry destroys them, leaving the virus ineffective.

 

Organic Elderberry Syrup from Nature's Way is a potent and flavourful choice.

 

Black Elderberries

 

Echinacea Plant

The herb Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea) is famous for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. It is supportive of the immune system and has a direct antiviral action against colds and viral bronchitis.

 

Preparations that include both roots and flowering tops are the most effective at helping the body resist viral infections.

 

Echinacea Supreme from Gaia Herbs is an excellent choice.

 

Garlic

Garlic has been prized for its medicinal properties for thousands of years. This powerful antiviral, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal remedy helps prevent common cold by boosting the immune system. It also improves cardiovascular health by lowering high blood pressure.

 

Fresh garlic is rich in compounds such as allicin and alliin, which are responsible for this common plant’s reputation as a triple threat.

 

Allicidin by Premier Research Labs is a great alternative to raw garlic.

 

Olive leaf

The leaves of olive trees (Olea Europea) are used to protect the digestive and central nervous system. Olive leaf extract also helps reduce pain and microorganism growth, as well as the risk of inflammation and cancer. It is also used to treat influenza, herpes, polio and coxsackie viruses.

 

The plant contains substances called oleanolic acid and calcium elongate, which are powerful inhibitors of a wide range of viruses. These substances block the production of enzymes that allow viruses to replicate.

 

Olive Leaf Immune by Premier Research Lab is a dynamic overall immune system formula.

 

Regardless of the season, it is important to keep the body strong and clear of mucus and impurities. By strengthening your cells with proper diet and supplementation, the immune response will keep you safe and healthy throughout the year.

 

And remember: the natural force within each of us is the greatest healer of all.

 

Be Well,
Edwin Dossman