Antiviral Herbs: A Proactive Approach

With contagious viruses being such a hot topic, such as the flu, everyone is looking for natural antiviral herbs and plants that actually work. If you missed our email last week on the coronavirus you can check it out by clicking here. 

In today’s time, there are many individuals who choose to get an influenza vaccination or the flu shot. Unfortunately, this is only 80% effective due to the mutating strains of the influenza virus; in addition, these vaccines teach our immune system in a natural manner, as well can often contain dangerous chemicals and preservatives. It is no surprise individuals choose to get these vaccinations as there are roughly more than 400 different viruses that can cause infections, including a common cold, flu, hepatitis, and HIV. 

What if there was a proactive approach to supporting our body’s natural immune system? There are a number of powerful antiviral herbs that boost our immune system, reduce inflammation and fight infections. But first, it’s important to understand what a virus is. 

 

Understanding What a Virus Is

A virus can infect any lifeform- plants, animals, bacteria, and of course, humans. They can be found in just about every part of our ecosystem, as well are the most abundant biological entity. Viruses carry genetic material, reproduce and evolve through natural selection, but lack cellular structure. In simple terms, a virus is a tiny infectious agent that is only able to replicate inside of the living cells of other organisms. 

 

How Does a Virus Spread?

A virus can spread in many ways. Some viruses, such as influenza, can spread by coughing and sneezing. Animal viruses are carried by blood-sucking insects. Other types such as infectious diarrhea are transmitted by the fecal-oral route (the result of poor hygiene) and are transferred between people by contact or enter through food and water. The concerning thing about getting a virus is that antibiotics do not work and vaccines are also unpredictable.

 

Antiviral Herbs: The Proactive Approach

Antiviral herbs can inhibit the development of viruses. Antiviral herbs help boost our body’s immune system, which allows for it to attack viral pathogens. Taking this approach can be more beneficial than attacking specific pathogens as antiviral drugs do. This is because pathogens mutate over time and become less reactive to treatment.

In addition to antiviral herbs defending against viral infections, they boost our immune system, but they also have other benefits such as digestive and anti-inflammatory support. 

 

Top Antiviral Herbs

 

  • Elderberry: There was a study that was published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine concluded that elderberry can be used as a natural herb for flu, as it was shown to be able to safely fight both influenza A and B. This herb which has a long history of medicinal benefits proved to be effective on all strains of influenza virus that were tested, was low in cost and did not cause adverse side effects. 
  • Astragalus: This herb has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries to boost the body’s immune system. Scientific studies have shown that astragalus has antiviral properties and stimulates the immune system, which suggests that it may help offer relief for cold and flu symptoms. A study conducted in 2004 evaluated its effects on herpes simplex virus type 1 and found that the herb has obvious inhibiting efficacy. In another study published in the Chinese Medical Sciences Journal, it was concluded that astragalus is able to inhibit the growth of coxsackie B virus in mice. In addition to this, astragalus is also antibacterial and has anti-inflammatory properties. It is also a strong adaptogenic herb that helps lower cortisol. 
  • Garlic: Experiments have shown that specific chemical compounds found in garlic are highly effective at killing numerous microorganisms responsible for some of the most common and rare infections such as pneumonia, herpes, and tuberculosis. In addition to taking supplementally, you can create your own garlic oil infusion at home- simply crush garlic cloves and add them to a carrier oil (avocado or olive oil). Let the mixture sit for a few hours, then strain the garlic bits off and keep the oil in a jar or container with a lid. This can be used as a tonic or applied topically for items such as cold sores. 

 

Health is a Lifestyle

There are other antiviral agents such as oregano and wholefood vitamin C which are found in our Immune IQ, but the most important thing to remember is that preventive lifestyle health is the best approach for any virus. Staying healthy is at the top of everyone’s list right now, as it should be every day, but outside of living in a bubble antiviral herbs are a great proactive way to support our immune health.

 

Disclaimer: This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal physician. All readers/viewers of this content are advised to consult their doctors or qualified health professionals regarding specific health questions. Neither FIQ nor the publisher of this content takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person or persons reading or following the information in this educational content. All viewers of this content, especially those taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should consult their physicians before beginning any nutrition, supplement or lifestyle program.