Fight Colds and Flu the Natural Way: Herbal Blends

Have you had the flu yet this winter? Or even just a really nasty cold? Even though it seems flu and cold season hits worst in the winter months, the truth is you can get sick any time of year. In fact, I’m convinced there’s nothing worse than a summer cold. At least when you’re sick in the winter you can feel justified snuggling under a mountain of blankets with a cup of hot tea – and you don’t have to turn on the air conditioner to do it!

When you do get sick, where’s the first place you turn? Perhaps it’s the pharmacy aisle or maybe you have a sure-fire home remedy to combat your sore throat and sniffling nose. My mom headed to the veterinarian for penicillin – I kid you not (Mom, if you’re reading this you know you can’t deny it).

Well, here’s another option! The following herbal blend has been shown to significantly help the body rid itself of infectious conditions such as influenza (aka: the flu), colds, sore throat and congestion.

GOLDENSEAL ROOT acts on the nervous system very much like Cinchona. It is well-suited for treating the mucous membranes, especially in cases of vaginal and uterine infections. Goldenseal has found effective use as a restorative medication following protracted fevers. The alkaloids of Goldenseal, especially berberine and hydrastine, have been used to combat a wide variety of infectious agents. Goldenseal extract has been shown effective against staph, strep, tuberculosis and Escherichia coli (more commonly known as just E. coli). Goldenseal  constituents have also been found to cure an increasingly troublesome, water-borne intestinal disease called giardiasis.

BAYBERRY ROOT BARK contains antipyretic, antibiotic and paramecicidal chemicals. Bayberry, an important nutritive supplement and digestive aid, helps insure that vital nutrients are absorbed into the blood stream. Bayberry root bark actually promotes healthy glandular activity throughout the entire body. Despite its widespread occurrence in North America, the Bayberry tree was used medicinally by just a few Native American tribes. One group of Choctaws used it for fevers.

CAYENNE increases the circulation of blood to peripheral tissues, ensuring that nutrients (including those obtained from this and other herbal preparations) are delivered to inflamed and infected areas. Though the practice is unsubstantiated scientifically, many people use Cayenne directly to treat sore throat and other cold symptoms, taking advantage of the herb’s irritant property on the surface of exposed tissue. Others find the practice painful, so exercise caution in applying the contents of these capsules directly to mucous membranes.

While each of the above pack power on its own, you’ll get the most out of the blend when used in combination. And now, the next time you are down with the flu or a cold, you now have an all-natural way to combat it!

*While these remedies have proven results, you should always be careful when choosing a new regimen of treatment. It’s best to ease into the use of herbs and ease out of the use of traditional medications – especially if your health problems are severe. A sudden switch of health regimen can be hazardous.