Means for the prevention of colds and flu - we continue our theme of protection against seasonal diseases. Let's talk about what is actually effective for prevention!
Cold and flu is a consequence of a viral attack on the body with a compromised immune system. The most common way viruses are transmitted is through hand contact, but if you have a strong immune system, nothing happens.
Are there natural remedies for the flu?
You should also drink plenty of fluids. Water, juices, sports drinks, and soup can help you stay in the water. Hot liquids like soup and tea have the added benefit of relieving sore throat pain. If left untreated, the typical flu often goes away in about a week. During this time, you have several treatment options to help relieve your symptoms.
Prescription drugs can reduce the severity of the infection. It can also shorten its duration. Even some natural flu remedies can help relieve symptoms. Some people may find a remedy against natural flu. Medical research supports some of the treatments that include.
If the immune system is not working at full strength, the virus will enter the body and you will get sick. It is important to understand here that the causes of colds and flu are impaired immunity.
Why is he weakened, I wrote in a post: why we are sick.
By eliminating these factors, we will restore immunity, and supplements will strengthen and help kill viruses.
Soup: Hot chicken soup works on many levels as a flu cure. Warm liquid can help relieve sore throat and provide hydration and electrolytes. Research shows that it can also change the white blood cells in your body.
Honey: Many "natural" coughs and cold medicines contain honey. This is due to the fact that it has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties. Honey is also an effective cough suppressant. Add some to your tea, or eat a small spoonful if you're trying to stop a cough.
Means for the prevention of colds and flu
Doctors offer little for prevention - there are no such drugs! Years ago, I asked doctors how do we prepare for the cold season? There is only one answer. Get a flu shot or buy arbidol!
Ginger: Pour a few chunks of ginger into tea or a glass of warm water and sip on a sip. This root has healing properties that can relieve sore throat and suppress coughs. It can also help with nausea. Probiotics: Increase the good bacteria in your gut as your body fights infection. Healthy gut microbes can stimulate the immune system, prevent new infections, and stimulate healing.
Of course, rupture is also an important part of recovering from a flu infection. Your body is fighting infection. It is wise to stop, rest, and sleep more so that your immune system can fight the infection. Firstly, you can become infected with a person - an air drop.
According to scientific research, such medicines are at best comparable to garlicand at worst not effective. About arbidol, the pharmacists themselves say that it works under one condition - you need to believe in it. I didn't succeed \u003d))
Are there effective preventive measures?
Remedies for preventing colds and flu exist, but research on them is limited. Unlike drugs, herbs and minerals cannot be patented and sold for big money, and therefore research is not funded and is carried out at their own expense.
The virus can live on inanimate objects for two to eight hours. If someone with the virus touches a common surface, such as a doorknob or keyboard, and touches the same surface, you could become infected. When you have the virus on your hand, it can enter your body by touching your mouth, eyes, or nose.
The bark is spread all over the world and you can find it near fields, roads, meadows and forests, or places in the sun. It is also called the "dog rose" from the Latin name Rosa Canina. The fruit is consumed dry as a versatile remedy for colds and viruses. It is rich in vitamin C and is a powerful immune stimulant. It is used to make tea and marmalade, and its seeds are a valuable ingredient used in cosmetic products. Compared to oranges, the vitamin C content is 50% more, making it the best source of vitamin C.
However, there is scientific evidence for effectiveness. The main remedies for preventing colds and flu are simple: vitamin D, garlic, propolis, echinacea, and hand washing.
Vitamin D deficiency is the cause of colds and flu
One of the causes of epidemics colds and the flu was found to be vitamin D deficient, with the most severe deficiency occurring during the winter and spring months.
Vitamins, citric and malic acids contained in its fruits serve to enhance immunity. The fruit is used for food, tea, marmalade, wine and even liquor. A tea rich in many vitamins made from rose hips. The refreshing drink is combined with mint, hibiscus and honey.
For gastritis, as well as for the treatment of vitamin deficiency. Cleanse the intestines and get rid of excess fluid. When prepared as a tea, it is used for bleeding from the stomach, intestines, and lungs, as well as diarrhea and stomach cramps. The various antioxidants it contains make the thorn a good cancer prevention. These same antioxidants are also used to prevent cardiovascular disease.
Low vitamin D levels affect the immune system, making her susceptible to the viruses of the common cold, flu and respiratory infections. And also leads to complications such as pneumonia and long, lingering colds.
The first method of prevention is to get rid of vitamin D deficiency, that's what I mean. Unlike vaccines, these recommendations are based on solid research.
The quality of rosehip oil makes it a valuable addition to beauty products. The bulb has the ability to regenerate new skin cells. That is why it is used in the treatment of scars, acne and burns. Although it has a drying effect, it does not dry out the skin; in fact, it helps the skin to rehydrate by retaining moisture.
Drinking rose hips daily also results in skin. It helps to regenerate skin cells and aids in wound healing and scarring. Thanks to this, the skin is nourished and elastic. This not only prevents the appearance of wrinkles, but also helps to minimize those that have already occurred. At this time of year, almost everyone suffers from some sort of sinus irritation, whether it be a respiratory infection, a runny nose, or hype allergies caused by winter allergens. If you are like me, you probably avoid allergies like the plague.
- one of the best vitamins D for children ChildLife, Organic Vitamin D3 Drops
propolis is most effective in liquid extract
Propolis: defender of immunity
Propolis is one of the agents with a wide range of antimicrobial activity in the world.
First, they don't always work, and second, they usually come with a number of side effects, including drowsiness, headaches, dry mouth, and nervousness. Incorporating herbs into the fight against winter colds can be an invaluable tool. Mixing herbs with hot tea is one of better means for relax. The hot steam helps open the nasal cavity, allowing the natural benefits of the herb to be absorbed.
Excessive exposure to toxins, seasonal allergens and bacteria contributes to excessive mucus, ugly and unpleasant symptoms that most people want to eliminate as soon as possible. This symptom also has an additional effect on the body, especially the respiratory and central nervous system, as well as the immune system, forcing them to work harder to stay healthy.
In addition to flavonoids, it contains apigenin and caffeic acid, two important compounds responsible for the alertness of the immune system.
Therefore, propolis extract helps both for the prevention of colds and flu and for treatmentby acting as a herbal antibiotic.
My reviews about propolis are here, and I choose this extract to enhance immunity:
By detoxifying the nasal and bronchial passages, clearing them of bacterial, viral and microbial invaders, you can remove excess secretions and begin the healing process. Below are some herbs to help you feel better.
It was used by the Indians as an insect repellent, diuretic, stimulant, and eye inflammation and inflammation. Its ability to suppress secretions makes it a popular antidote for colds. Also used by the Indians, Echinacea is a genus of herbaceous plants in the family of complex colors, like chamomile. They are available as tea, liquid extract, dried herbs, or capsules and are known to boost the immune system. The antimicrobial properties of echinacea help treat and prevent colds.
- Propolis extract Y.S. Eco Bee Farms, Propolis, Alcohol Free
Garlic or Tamiflu?
Recent publications in scientific journals have again highlighted the importance of garlic for its antiviral, antimicrobial and antifungal effects.
A study by researchers from the University of Connecticut found that echinacea reduced the risk of cold exposure by 58 percent. Thyme: Used as an oil or in dried form, thyme helps relieve coughs by quickly clearing your lungs. The herb works best in tea and can be prepared by preparing 2 tablespoons of fresh thyme in a cup of boiling hot water. Regan: A member of the peppermint family, its antibacterial and antiviral properties make it great for treating sore throats, congestion and fatigue caused by the common cold.
As it turned out, garlic is not only a herbal antibiotic, but also stimulates the immune system... The compounds in garlic bulbs kill many organisms, including bacteria and viruses that cause ear pain, flu and colds.
The world's most respected research organization, Cochrane (which has researched Tamiflu and demonstrated repeatedly that the flu vaccine is useless at best) has conducted a number of studies looking for alternatives, such as using garlic.
Lavender: This beautifully fragrant herb is ideal for fighting coughs and colds and can relieve headaches and fatigue. Try adding a few drops of essential oil to a vaporizer, or even rub it directly onto your chest, neck, and back.
White Marshmallow: Bred from a plant with short, rounded leaves and small pale flowers, white marshmallow was used by the Egyptians. The leaves and roots of this herb have antitussive, gurgling and antibacterial properties, making them useful for relieving inflammation of the membranes in the mouth and throat if swallowed. Antitussive properties help reduce coughing and prevent further irritation.
And although such studies are not funded and therefore there are few of them, it was possible to establish that a group of people taking garlic daily for three months, had colds less often. And those who did get sick had a shorter duration of illness - an average of 4.5 days, compared with 5.5 days in the placebo group.
Although this may not seem like a very impressive result, but it is better than the results achieved with Tamiflu... When taken within 48 hours of an illness, Tamiflu shortens the duration of the flu by 1-1.5 days. This is the result you get for about $ 117!
In addition to sore throat, white mucus can help treat gastrointestinal mucosa, dyspepsia, heartburn, and stomach ulcers. You can make a great marshmallow tea using 2-5 tablespoons of either powdered root or dried leaves boiling about 150 grams of water.
To be in good health, your immune system must be stable. During a cold, due to stress, the monthly cycle in women, the disease and its other defenses are weakened. Sports, relaxation therapy and healthy foods can help keep her strong at all times. Write down these tips and follow them for good health.
That is how much Tamiflu costs in America and this is the same as if you just eat garlic every day!
Treatment with Tamiflu, which was started within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms, significantly reduced the duration of illness by 35.8 hours compared with placebo.
However, some patients on Tamiflu were at increased risk of secondary bacterial infections and pneumonia, which made it impossible for them to jump out of bed one day earlier. And he also has side effects in the form of skin reactions, deaths of children and suicides committed in adolescents ... garlic does not have such side effects!
Eat brightly colored vegetables. Green, orange, red, and yellow vegetables are rich in carotenoids such as beta-carotene. These are antioxidants that help the immune system stay fit. Nuts are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, as well as zinc. Regular consumption of almonds, walnuts, cashews, pistachios, and other substances can reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases and other types of infections.
Which you can take as a warm drink. Echinacea stimulates the immune system, supports the growth of other immune compounds. The fruits are rich in vitamin C, which is important for the immune system. It is believed to be able to prevent many types of damage as well as stimulate the immune system. Darker fruits are high in bioflavonoids, which can act as antioxidants that attack free radicals.
If you like garlic, then one of the ways to use it is garlic soup, consisting of unpeeled garlic cloves (at least 10), with olive oil, onions, thyme and fresh lemon wedges. Such a soup ideal for preventing most virusescausing flu and colds.
Fish is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. Eat more oily fish like tuna, mackerel, and salmon. Fish is rich in zinc, which our bodies cannot synthesize, so we need to get it through food. Zinc makes cells healthier and also strengthens the immune system.
Or a dietary supplement that reduces the severity and duration of the common cold. Helps prevent upper infections respiratory tract and strengthens the immune system, stopping the multiplication of the virus. Garlic fights infections and bacteria. It has antiviral and antibacterial properties. The aromatic vegetable helps white blood cells. It is rich in antioxidants, and since we can consume it all year round, it is best to put it on our table.
Aged Garlic Extract
If you don’t like the taste of garlic or you cannot eat it every day, buy ripe garlic extract. It is odorless and tasteless - the most well-studied form of garlic preparations.
In addition to the high dosage, "jar of garlic" has the advantage - it does not contain substances that are formed when fresh garlic is minced and capable of causing tissue irritation.
The body of each of us needs beneficial bacteria, which we can get from the consumption of yogurt. The good and beneficial bacteria in milk help us maintain a healthy immune system and be resistant to viruses and colds. American ginseng root has been used for health, tonicity, and prevention of upper respiratory tract infections for centuries. Traditional Chinese medicine uses tonic herbs such as ginseng to boost immunity.
To be resistant to viruses and disease, you must consume foods that promote the production and activity of white blood cells. Mushrooms are a good food, so eat more of them. This vitamin is essential for skin health and beauty. Sweet potatoes are rich in folate, vitamin C, potassium and many other nutrients needed for good health. Winter is a lot of fun, while you have to be on your guard. This is the time when our virus attacks our body more successfully. This results in flu and colds.
Kyolic is the leader in aged garlic supplements. I chose three supplements, they differ in concentration, plus the last complex is the immune formula.
I drink the second form of garlic, 1000 mg per tablet! It has no taste, so prevention goes without the troubles associated with ordinary teeth \u003d))
- Wakunaga - Kyolic, Aged Garlic Extract, Original Formula
- Wakunaga - Kyolic, Aged Garlic Extract, One Per Day, Cardiovascular
- Wakunaga - Kyolic, Immune Formula 103
Echinacea strengthens the immune system, reducing the risk of colds and flu
Echinacea: strengthens the immune system
Echinacea has a long history of use in the prevention and treatment of respiratory infections. Its mechanisms of action are still not entirely clear, but three hundred studies have proven that echinacea strengthens the immune system, can reduce the risk of disease seasonal colds (ARVI) by 26%, as well as cure viral and bacterial infectious diseases upper respiratory tract.
Important: Echinacea is more effective when taken throughout the “cold season”.
At the same time, echinacea preparations have an important feature, on which efficiency will depend... Some echinacea complexes do not indicate on the packaging what type is used and from which parts of the plant the extract is made.
- Gaia Herbs Echinacea Supreme Liquid
- A Vogel Echinaforce Extract
I did not write a separate post on A. Vogel Echinaforce (it is also suitable for children from 2 years old), but for a child I bought a child Gaia Herbs Kids, Echinacea Goldenseal.
There are few people who do not face certain colds - runny nose, sore throat, cough, elevated temperature body. Most often this happens with the onset of autumn. The so-called "cold season": the air temperature is dropping, cold winds and rains are frequent, and sometimes we are not in a hurry to warm up, as if we hope that the heat will return. And it seems we know everything about the prevention of colds by teeth, but sometimes it is impossible to avoid a cold.
There are still many cold days ahead of us and, I think, hardly anyone will disagree with the statement:
It is better to prevent disease than to cure it.
So let's remind ourselves of the measures that need to be taken to protect ourselves and our loved ones from colds. And maybe the "cold season" will not become such for us.
How to avoid colds
Before we start talking about measures to prevent colds, let's understand the main thing for ourselves.
We often consider a cold a "harmless disease" that simply becomes a hindrance and disrupts our usual way of life. There is even such an expression - "If you treat a runny nose, it will go away in seven days, if not treated, then in a week."
Yes, sometimes it happens - a few uncomfortable days and a complete restoration of working capacity.
But, unfortunately, it does not always go so harmlessly, sometimes a banal cold turns into a more serious disease.
Therefore, let's not treat a cold as some kind of discomfort. This is a disease and it must be treated, but this is a topic for another conversation, today we are talking about prevention.
Prevention of colds 
Measures to prevent colds can be divided into two groups:
- specific prophylaxis is a vaccination aimed at counteracting a specific pathogen, as a rule, is carried out to protect the population from influenza.
- non-specific prevention - this is the topic of our conversation - increasing the defenses of our body.
And who is on guard of the body's defenses is our immunity. And, naturally, we need to think about immunity not when the cold season begins, but constantly. This is an integrated approach, which includes proper nutrition and hardening procedures, exercise, and other methods that are useful for maintaining immunity.
I have an article on the blog about that, where I considered everything in detail, I recommend reading it.
But there are preventive measures that directly relate to the autumn-winter period, let's remember them:
- In autumn, as a rule, they worsen chronic diseases and this reduces the protective functions of our body, increasing the risk of catching a cold. Knowing about your illnesses, worry in advance and take a number of measures to make this autumn aggravation more comfortable. It is best to do this under the supervision of your doctor.
- Dress for the weather and consider how much time you will be outdoors. Hypothermia is often the cause of our colds. But you don't need to be reinsured in this matter either, you should be comfortable in your clothes.
- Humidify the air. Dry air in heated rooms dries out the nasal mucosa, and this makes it easier for viruses to enter the lungs from the nasal cavity.
- Ventilate the room. A change of air is useful in any case, but if there are colds in the room, then by airing, you will reduce the concentration of viruses in the air.
- Aromatherapy is actively used for preventive purposes, as some oils have an anti-viral effect. This oil is geranium, lavender, lemon, lemon balm, tea tree oil, eucalyptus. To process the room, it is enough to pour 3-4 drops of oil into the aroma lamp and leave for a couple of hours. If there is no aroma lamp, then you can add a few drops of oil to the water and spray it around the room with a spray bottle. There are no essential oils, there is an affordable remedy - chop the garlic, put it in a saucer and place it in the room - the evaporating essential oils and phytoncides of garlic do an excellent job with viral microbes.
- Wet cleaning also refers to measures to prevent colds. You can use essential oils when cleaning by adding a few drops to a bucket of water.
You can often hear the rule:
During an exacerbation of colds, and especially during a flu epidemic, be less likely to be in crowded places.
Yes, the advice is correct, but not always feasible, since we use public transport, we are at work, visit supermarkets and can easily catch a viral infection.
How to protect yourself in this case? It is necessary to create a barrier for viruses:
We are used to the fact that if we are talking about a cold, then immediately we remember about vitamin C. Yes, indeed, it strengthens the body's defenses, but now scientists have become not so unambiguous about this vitamin. Studies have determined that an excess of vitamin C can lead to the opposite effect.
Everything should be in moderation and the presence of other vitamins is equally important for the prevention of colds.
For example, vitamin D reduces the risk of getting the flu and other colds. B vitamins play an important role in maintaining the immune system. Vitamin A, by strengthening the mucous membrane, enhances the protective functions of our body. Vitamin E can also help fight off colds.
Other nutrients are also important. In order to have strength and the immune system to work without failures, the body needs proteins - primarily animals, because all the essential amino acids important for immune cells are contained in them. A trace mineral such as zinc helps to resist bacteria. Iron strengthens the body's resistance.
Conclusion - a varied and balanced diet is necessary at any time of the year, but in the autumn-winter period, pay special attention to this, thereby you will help your body to increase its protective functions. What foods contain this or that vitamin and trace element can be read and.
Don't forget about the gifts of nature - honey, herbs, berries (rose hips, cranberries, lingonberries, ginger, chamomile, mint). Make vitamin teas from them - these are not only delicious drinks, but an excellent prophylactic remedy for colds. Take note of the useful one, and also watch the video.
There are ready-made vitamins and other preparations for the prevention of colds, maintaining immunity, but it is not recommended to take them without consulting specialists.
Take care of yourself and your loved ones and be healthy.
Elena Kasatova. See you by the fireplace.