17/11/2021
Here's a article I wrote about flu and viruses in general, It's a worth while read if you're at all interested in the subject!
With the ongoing concerns about Covid 19,coupled with the present financial climate and Christmas just around the corner, it is no wonder that people can feel stretched to the limit. Ongoing stress and worry can interfere with our finely tuned immune systems, thereby making us more susceptible to illness. In this article I am going to be writing about herbs that can be used to combat influenza type symptoms and nasty viral colds. I believe in the old adage that prevention is better than cure. By taking responsibility for our own state of health , we begin to feel more in control of life in general. The herbs I am going to describe should be taken in a suitable combination to achieve the desired effect. Some of these herbs can be taken as a preventative, whilst others are more appropriate if symptoms are already apparent.
Elderberry
The Elder tree is nature's medicine chest, all parts of this tree can be used medicinally. The berries have demonstrated very good anti viral properties and tests have shown it to be effective against ten strains of influenza. Indeed, it was used to treat a 'flu outbreak in Panama in 1985. It appears to strengthen cell membranes, thus preventing pe*******on by a virus. It is worth noting that Hypericum and Soapwort exhibit similar anti-viral properties.
Elderflower
We are all familiar with Elderflower! I'm sure we have memories of our grandmothers and mothers making Elderflower wine. This wine was duly brought out of storage at the onset of 'flu and colds. The flowers are best combined with Yarrow and Peppermint.
Yarrow
This herb has quite a bitter taste and has drying astringent properties. This is a good choice for a wet cough and sinus problems. A dark blue essential oil can be extracted from the flowers, which makes an effective chest rub when treating respiratory problems. Obviously, the essential oil needs to be diluted in a carrier oil before use.
Peppermint
Such a common aromatic herb that it needs no introduction at all. Peppermint combines perfectly well with Elderflower and Yarrow in the treatment of head colds, encouraging the body to perspire. It also works wonderfully when an antispasmodic is required for issues in the digestive tract.
Andrographis paniculata
Predominantly, Andrographis is known for its anti-inflammatory effect, but it also has immunomodulatory properties. Here we have the perfect combination of constituents to treat viral illnesses like 'flu. The thing to remember with this plant is that it needs to be taken within the first 24 hours of illness to be really effective. It should not be taken as a matter of course, only when actually needed.
Boneset
This plant is a good choice for intermittent fevers. Boneset is a stimulating febrifuge, which means that it will induce perspiration. It was used in America for a strain of 'flu called Break Bone Fever, hence the name Boneset.
Myrrh
Regular readers of this column will already know that I rate Myrrh very highly! The resin is thought to stimulate the production of white blood cells. Myrrh is an antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory expectorant. There is so much I could write about Myrrh, but it would fill this column.
Slippery Elm
A really old fashioned remedy that has stood the test of time. This powder cannot be praised highly enough. It is very nutritious, making it perfect for any digestive problems. One of it's lesser known applications is in the treatment of sore throats and coughs. Slippery Elm is one of those rare plants that have a relatively pleasant taste when made into a hot drink with local honey. Basically, this powder soothes every area it comes into contact with. It can be made into a thick paste to draw out deep splinters in your hands. But you do need to avoid commercial brand name packages labelled Slippery Elm, as these have added ingredients and are not the pure powder. This is a very useful herb to have at home.
Mullein
Mullein has the same soothing properties as Slippery Elm, but with the added bonus of being an anti-inflammatory expectorant. It contains anti viral constituents as verified in test tube studies.
I would find it very difficult, if not impossible, to run a herbal practice without the following two herbs. It is interesting that Capsicum and Lobelia enhance each other's actions. Here I am going to quote the words of Dr. Christopher.
Lobelia
' Lobelia is a general corrector of the whole system, as it is easily diffused. It's action is felt immediately on the serous, mucus, muscular and nervous systems. as a powerful antispasmodic. Lobelia is effective in causing immediate relaxation and expansion of the respiratory system. Lobelia removes obstruction and congestion in the body.'
Lobelia is a selective herb. It is a stimulant in small doses and a relaxant in larger doses. Please note that larger doses will cause vomiting and I only use small measured doses. It combines well with Capsicum, as it appears to extend the length of time Capsicum is active in the body.
Capsicum
Again in the words of Dr. Christopher ' Cayenne is a great food for the circulatory system and will adjust the blood pressure to normal. Cayenne regulates the flow of blood from the head to the feet, so that it is equalized'. I view Cayenne as the most potent accelerator of other herbs in a formula and there are only a minimum of cases where I would advise against its use.
So, there we have it! A reasonable (although not extensive)list of some of the most popular herbs to help you through the Winter.
