Herbs for Cold & Flu Season
It seems like everyone is coming down with a respiratory infection right now. From work, to the grocery store, to family, avoiding exposure is nearly impossible. In times where my immune system is challenged, I like to turn to our herbal allies.
Note: None of the following is medical advice, this article is purely for educational purposes.
Prevention
Over the last few weeks, several friends and family members have been dealing with nasty colds, and they always ask me for any herbal “tricks” that could help them get over it faster. While there are things you can do to help when you are already sick, let’s start with what you can do to try and prevent catching a bug!
1. Wash Your Hands Regularly
This is an obvious one, but it bears repeating. Whether you are going out in public spaces or helping a sick family member - wash your hands often, and avoid touching your face. This can significantly reduce the spread of infectious diseases.
2. Stay Hydrated
If your body is not struggling to perform basic tasks because it needs water, then it has more energy and resources to dedicate to staying well. Your mucus membranes (think nasal passages) need to stay hydrated to catch pathogens trying to enter the body, and a proper blood volume helps the white blood cells reach their targets more effectively.
3. Get Plenty of Sleep
Not getting enough sleep can significantly increase your risk of infection. Conversely, having adequate sleep improves antibody and immune cell production, and allows for faster tissue repair.
4. Prioritize Nutrition
A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals (like vitamins A, C, D, E, and zinc) plays a crucial role in supporting a healthy immune system, as these nutrients are essential for the proper function and production of immune cells, allowing the body to effectively fight off infections.
5. Some Herbs That Are Helpful
Bioflavonoids can help strengthen cell walls, making them less susceptible to viral or bacterial attack:
Elderberries
Hawthorn Berries
Strawberries/Blueberries
Citrus Skin
Adaptogens help the body adapt to stressors:
Mushrooms such as Reishi, Chaga, Maitake, and Turkey Tail
Astragalus
Red Sage Root
Supporting gut health supports the entire body:
Licorice
Marshmallow root
Meadowsweet
Burdock root
Active Illness
While prevention is helpful, there will still be times that you catch a cold. In these instances, there are several herbs that can help alleviate symptoms. However, you should always go to the doctor if your symptoms significantly worsen, if you become dehydrated, or if you have a fever for more than a few days.
Immune System Stimulant
Echinacea
Lomatium
Reishi & Astragalus (stimulates a depressed immune system, and downregulates an over-excited immune system)
Usnea
2. Decongestant
Echinacea
Elderberry
Garlic
Goldenseal
Thyme
Yerba Santa
3. Antibacterial
Echinacea
Garlic
Goldenseal
Licorice
Lomatium
Thyme
Usnea
Yerba Mansa
4. Antiviral:
Astragalus
Echinacea
Elderberry
Garlic
Goldenseal
Licorice
Lomatium
Reishi
Thyme
A super star for the lungs:
Mullein is considered a tonic to the lungs, and is beneficial to most conditions of the respiratory system. It reduces inflammation while stimulating fluid production, making it a great expectorant. Mullein tones the mucous membranes, and its anti-inflammatory and demulcent properties make it useful for irritating conditions such as bronchitis.
In conclusion…
Along with proper hygiene practices, nutrition, hydration, and sleep, our herbal allies can support us throughout the entirety of the cold and flu season.
