Immune Support Just in Time for Winter!

The temperature is starting to drop and runny noses, body aches and stomach bugs may be in your future this winter. However, your best defense is consistent healthy living, which comes from staying well-rested and well-nourished. When your body feels fatigued and undernourished, it makes you more susceptible to the bacteria and viruses that linger around us. When your body is healthy, your immune system tackles these invading organisms before they have a chance to make you sick.

But let’s face it, who doesn’t get tired from time to time? Who eats well balanced meals every day? Good news: There is hope. Administered during the onset of a cold or flu, the right herbal medicines can significantly reduce the cold’s symptoms as well as duration. The million dollar question is “What are those herbs and how do I get them?” First, keep in mind that similar to items like cars, food, appliances, or clothing, not all herbal products are created equal. As far as supplements go, if the product seems especially cheap, there is usually a reason behind this. An exceptionally low price usually signifies poor quality raw materials, and perhaps less integrity in the final product, suggesting a lowered efficacy. While you don’t necessarily need to purchase the most expensive herbal product you can find, you should investigate the company at hand and explore their manufacturing practice. Do they grow and harvest their own products? Do they import their raw material from China? Do they use organic herbs? Do they fill their capsule with unnecessary binders and fillers (this is usually the case with cheaper products, resulting in a lowered medicinal potency).

That being said, what can you take for cold and flu symptoms that brings the relief you are looking for?

Echinacea root, naturally rich in alkylamides, is anti-inflammatory and can be beneficial in the acute stages of a cold or flu. It is common to see Echinacea used in conjunction with other immune supportive herbs such as Black Elderberry, Ginger root, and Andrographis for a strong defense tactic. Immediately at the onset of a cold or flu, Echinacea root should be taken in high doses and frequency to be effective -- just as soon as symptoms begin to appear. On the other hand, the aerial portion of Echinacea, the part that grows above ground, is best taken to stimulate and strengthen the immune system throughout the cold and flu season for those who find they continually get sick. Echinacea in this form is thought to enhance the immune system and should be taken in a lower dose long term. 

Black Elderberry has an extensive history of being used in the early stages of colds and flus. Research has shown great promise in its immune supportive properties. Elderberry Syrup is one of the few natural products that has been clinically tested to shorten the duration and severity of the flu and is a favorite with both kids and adults alike. Keep a bottle on hand in the medicine cabinet … ready for the first signs of the sniffles or tickly throat.

Ginger is one of the most widely consumed aromatic spices on the planet. It has been shown in numerous clinical trials to support a healthy inflammatory response and as a beneficial nausea aid. Nursing a cold? Try a warm soothing cup of ginger tea several times a day with freshly squeezed lemon and honey. Honey also has great antimicrobial properties.

All the herbs in the world won’t help if you let yourself become depleted. Start your strategy now for keeping stress levels at a minimum by eating healthfully and committing to your sleep quotient, as well as drinking plenty of water!