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Homeopathic Flu Solutions

We had the flu and several colds run through our family last season. Are there natural supplements that can protect me from the flu?

Yes! Natural remedies including homeopathic remedies and herbs can help protect you from colds and flu. They can also help reduce your symptoms and help your recover more quickly when you do get sick. There are many wonderful remedies found in nature that support the immune system. Read below to learn about some of my top recommendations for prevention and treatment...as well as one of my favorites: the Wet Sock Hydrotherapy Treatment!

Homeopathic Cold & Flu Prevention:

1. For the flu: Oscillococcinum (by Boiron) – In the months of October and November, Dissolve 5-6 pills under tongue twice a day for 3 days.
2. Core prevention:
   • Vitamin D – studies have shown Vitamin D alone to prevent and reduce risk of flu.
     • Adults 2,000-5,000 iu/day
     • Children: 1-2000 iu/day. 1,000 iu per 25 lbs.
   • Elderberry – Elderberry is anti-viral and immune enhancing. It tastes pretty good and great for kids. It is commonly available as a syrup but can also be found as a lozenge or capsule.  Typical dosages are as follows or take as directed on label:
     • Adults: 1 teaspoon daily. Children age 2-12: ½ teaspoon daily
     • For Acute Use: Adults - 1 teaspoon, 2-3 times daily; Children age 2-12: ½ teaspoon, 2-3 times daily
   • Probiotics – 5-15 billion CFU is a typical average dose.
3. Options for Additional support: 
   1. Medicinal Mushrooms such as Daily Immune Support by Host Defense.
   2. Astragalus – an herb that helps build deeper immunity.  Especially helpful if you have a weakened immune system, are stressed and tend to get frequent colds and flu.

Note: Homeopathics and herbs make a great pair. They help enhance each other’s action so combine Oscillococcinum with one or more herbs and Vitamin D to provide better protection. 

Homeopathic Recommendations at Onset:

1. For the flu: Osciolloccoimum – 1 dose every 6 hours as directed on the label.
2. Colloidal Silver – take as directed on label
3. Herbs that have anti-viral action and that “fire” up the immune system are the ones to choose at onset of symptoms. Examples include:
   • Andrographis (Andrographis paniculata) – increases immune cells in the blood, helpful for sore throat, fever and upper respiratory symptoms.
   • Echinacea (E. angustifolia and E. pupurea) – anti-microbial, stimulates the immune system and decreases inflammation present acute infections.  A tried and true herb for all types of infections. Great for kids.
   • Umckaloabo (Pelargonium sidoides)­ - clinically shown to reduce the severity and length of cold and flu. Helpful for coughs, bronchitis and excess mucous production.

General Dosing Guidelines for Acute illness:   

• Start supplementation at the very first signs of symptoms.
• Frequency is the key so take doses often.
• Herbs are often dosed every 2 -4 hours;  taking doses more often depending on severity.

Wet Sock Hydrotherapy Treatment:

Try this method to help stimulate healing and speed recovery!

• Take a Hot foot bath (or full body bath) for 5-10 minutes.
• Have the following ready:
  • a pair of thin cotton socks in a bowl of ice water
  • a pair of thick wool socks
  • a warm pile of blankets to rest in.
• After your hot bath, dry the feet quickly, wring out the cold cotton socks so that they are COLD but not dripping.
• Put on the cold cotton socks, and then put on the warm wool socks over them.
• Get into the warm blankets, and relax or sleep until the cotton socks are warmed to dry.
• You can do this before going to bed and leave on all night while you sleep. For younger children – cold water instead of ice water will do.

Dr. Joanne Aponte is a Board Certified Naturopathic Doctor & Holistic Wellness Expert. She is available in the store every Tuesday & Thursday from 12-7 to help answer your questions regarding natural wellness.

 Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is intended for educational purposes only. The information is not intended to be used for medical advice, diagnosis, prevention or treatment of any medical condition or disease. The statements about products have not been evaluated by the food and Drug Administration. This information does not replace the one-on-one advice of your personal health care provider. It is recommended that you consult with your physician or other qualified health professional before making changes to your health care routine.