Swine Flu Pandemic

The best defence against viral infections is a healthy immune system. Liz Chandler from Natures Corner, looks at some natural remedies to promote healthy immune function.

Flu pandemics occur approximately every 30 years, when a virus mutates to such an extent that people no longer have any immunity to these new forms. The swine flu virus, first identified in Mexico, can no longer be contained and we are beginning to see the effects of the economic and social impact of such a virus. On a personal level, swine flu can make us feel mildly unwell in the best instance and can have the most serious consequences for those who are more vulnerable.

Whilst I would not like to profess that any of the natural remedies mentioned in this article are in any way specific in the prevention of swine flu, by strengthening our immune systems, we empower ourselves to be more resilient to contracting any disease. It’s a case of being responsible for our own health and wellbeing.

Diet, of course, plays the lead role in the prevention of many health problems. To maintain a strong immune system, foods rich in anti-oxidant properties offer the necessary nutrients. These include,

Green and jasmine teas also offer great anti-oxidant properties, being rich in polyphenols that have a high anti-viral capacity. Just by gargling with green and jasmine teas can help protect against colds and other diseases.

Probably the best known traditional herbal remedy is Echinacea. This plant supports immune function encouraging the better recognition and destruction of invading pathogens. As it strengthens the immune system generally, rather than working on a specific pathogen, it is ideal for prophylactic use. Echinacea enhances the action of T-cells, which are responsible for identifying unfriendly molecules in the body, thus improving the body’s ability to recognise pathogens. Another benefit of Echinacea is that it encourages interferon, which prevents viruses from replicating, thus defending the body against all type of microbial attack.

Echinacea can safely be taken by children from two years upwards. Many children these days have weakened immune systems, causing them to succumb to infection after infection. This is particularly noticeable when they start a new school term. Whilst it is important that children’s immune systems are exposed to some challenges to allow them to mature, an immune system that is already weak will not benefit from repeated infections. Echinacea is available in small, pleasant tasting chewable tablets or in tincture form, and both are free from synthetic preservatives, flavouring and colouring. The herb offers ant-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, antiviral and antiseptic effects and can be used for children’s ailments such as colds, flu, chicken pox and recurrent infections. Contrary to the perception of many people, there are no restrictions to long term use of Echinacea.

Another natural remedy that offers great benefits is the appropriately named Immune+ (vitamin C and blackcurrant immune support). This high potency formula provides 1000mg vitamin C, with blackcurrant, black elderberry and bilberry, plus zinc for added immune support. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant and supports healthy immune function. It is easily destroyed on exposure to air, so despite eating a balanced diet, we may not always be getting enough of this vital nutrient in our diets, as we think we are. Emerging research has found that the anthocyanidins and procyanidins found in blackcurrant outperform those found in other fruit, and help to support the body’s defence systems.

If you are at all concerned about aspects of your health and would like to speak to a Healthcare professional in more detail, please contact Natures Corner on 01635 33007 or email info@naturescorner.co.uk.

Always advise us of any other medication or health issues.

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