This flu season is giving everyone a lot to worry about. In addition to the usual concerns over the flu, there is that other virus flaring...yup, you know the one. The good news is the same protective measures apply for both viruses, and in fact, other viral bugs as well.
First and foremost, be vigilant about washing your hands with soap and water for at least 30 seconds and drying them using a towel whenever possible. Try to avoid touching your eyes or mouth unless your hands have been recently washed. Cover coughs with a tissue and dispose of it immediately. Hand sanitizers are not nearly as effective as soap and water - so do not exclusively rely on them for protection.
For those of you that have access to good quality herbal products like those we carry in house, including Mediherb, Gaia, and our Chinese medicine suppliers, there are some herbal remedies that may help build resistance to viruses. For children or those with more sensitive constitutions, Elderberry syrup is a good place to start.
For prevention, I recommend elderberry OR echinacea OR andrographis complex (better if you have ragweed allergies than echinacea). NOTE: if taking Andrographis, be sure to supplement zinc as well. Mediherb has an outstanding Echinacea extract which works very well when taken daily before you get sick. They also carry Andrographis Complex with a combination of immune boosting herbs. Yu Ping Feng San (aka Jade Windscreen Decoction) can be very helpful for those that have weak immune systems. Herbal formulas like Microgard which regulate the microbiome in the gut may help improve immune function as well.
These formulas are available in our online store, as well as in-office.
For those who don't have access to quality herbs or if you want to add an extra layer of protection you can also include Vitamin C, D and zinc. Foods like hibiscus and rose hips can be helpful as sources of vitamin C. I also recommend Lysine to boost the immune system against viruses. Lysine can also be very effective at shortening the duration of cold sores that may emerge this time of year. Supplemental vitamin D can be helpful and we recommend a liquid form from Metagenics that's easy to take and readily absorbed by the body. If you are sick, you definitely need to be sure you are supplementing C, D, and zinc to replace what your body is using.
***If you take any prescription medications, it is important to check with your healthcare provider before adding any herbal remedies or supplements to your routine.***
My preferred protocol if I’m feeling under the weather or think I’ve been exposed is:
Lastly, nasal rinsing with buffered saline solution can rinse out any viruses before they have a chance to pass through the mucous membranes (remember NEVER use plain tap water to rinse nasal cavities). This is also a helpful practice during allergy season to keep pollen and dust out of your nasal passages. We recommend the Nasopure bottles for ease of use and safety.
In Summary:
For Prevention: Echinacea (it should make your tongue tingle or it’s not the real stuff) ORElderberry ORAndrographis ComplexPlus: Vitamin C, D and zinc
If Actively Sick:
***With Chinese herbal formulas, it's important to check with an experienced herbalist before taking them. ***
We offer free 15 min consults to help make sure you get the most appropriate formula for your needs. Book an appointment today!
