Flu herbs

During viral infections like the common cold and influenza
the virus gets attached to the cells of the mucous
membranes in the respiratory tract and destroys cells,
causing cold and flu conditions. Flu herbs can strengthen
the immune system by producing antibodies which neutralize
toxicity of foreign cells. There are many flu herbs which
protect from the common cold and flu.

Cats claw is a multipurpose herb that treats asthma,
inflammations of the urinary tract, arthritis, rheumatism,
and bone pain. It is a cleanser herb for the kidney. Women
used it to recover from childbirth. Also, it was used to
cure deep wounds; inflammation and gastric ulcers. It is
now used as a cure against viral diseases also. Cats claw
(Uncaria tomentosa) is a large, woody vine that derives its
name from hook-like thorns that grow along the vine and
resemble the claws of a cat. It can reach over 30 m high
into the canopy and has small, yellowish-white flowers.
Cats claw is found in Amazon rainforest, and South and
Central America, in the countries of Peru, Ecuador,
Colombia, Guyana, Venezuela, Trinidad, Guatemala, Suriname,
Costa Rica, and Panama.

Pau darco is a herb derived from the inner bark of the
Tabebuia Avellanedae/Tabebuia Impetiginosa (Taheebo) tree
in South America. Its tea has been used for cancer
victims. Lapachol is a chemical derived from pau darco, is
active against viral diseases, is effective against the
malarial parasite, inhibits herpes simplex, and restricts
the virus that causes cold sores. Low doses of pau darco
chemicals activate the immune system.

Jergon sacha is found in the Amazon forest, and in the
rainforests of Brazil, Suriname, and Guyana, Peru,
Colombia, and Ecuador rainforests. The juice of the fresh
rhizomes of Jergon sacha is used as an antidote for spider
bites, and for wounds of poisonous dart and arrow. The
powdered tuberous rhizome of Jergon sacha is used orally to
treat asthma, menstrual disorders, and whooping cough. The
root powder of Jergon sacha is used for scabies. The
decoction made out of the whole plant of Jergon sacha is
put in baths for gout. It is also fancied as treatment for
HIV/AIDS, cancerous tumors, gastrointestinal problems,
hernias, hand tremors, heart palpitations, and enhancement
of immune function.

Echinacea is one of the popular flu herbs in activating the
immune system. It can be taken before an aliment happens,
in anticipation. Ginseng is another one of the popular flu
herbs to increase resistance to stress and disease along
with improved energy and stamina. The herb Hyssop can be
used as a tea which heals bronchitis and loosens phlegm
(thereby removing congestion, coughs, and hoarseness).
Garlic is a pungent herb with anti-bacterial properties
that helps the immune system to fight infection. Onion has
similar properties as Garlic and should be cooked with food
during cold attacks. Ginger contains a dozen antiviral
compounds, relieves pain, prevents and treats colds, sore
throats and inflammation of mucus membranes. Peppermint
treats bronchitis, colds and flu and reduces fevers by
inducing sweating which cools the body. It works as a
decongestant clearing blocked sinuses. Herbs like Lemon
Balm tea promotes sweating and eliminates the toxins from
the body. Catnip is good for feverish colds and the flu.
Fenugreek eases coughs and sore throats. Juniper relieves
coughs and flu is its steam after it is boiled with water
is inhaled.

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Patricia McDougall B.Sc. is a Chartered Herbalist and
graduate of the Dominion Herbal College, British Columbia,
Canada. Originally from Peru, Patricia is the Director of
Research and Development for Amazon Botanicals LLC of
Newark Delaware.
http://www.amazon-botanicals.com/Flu_herbs_s/37.htm