Dr. Weil’s 12 Herbal Tips to Knock Out the flu

It Flu Season

The good news is that we can prepare ourselves mentally and emotionally to handle the flu.

Research is clear – Optimists are healthier. If the flu hits, think of it this way, your immune system is being made stronger. While it builds itself up, here are 6 of Dr. Weil’s herbal tips to put an end to the flu. You can read the rest on Dr. Weil’s homepage: http://www.drweil.com/drw/u/ART00675/12-Cold-Weather-Remedies.html

12 Cold-Weather Remedies

The 12 cold-weather herbal remedies recommended here should help you stay well, or at least help cut the duration of most winter health challenges. There are remedies for sore throats, chapped lips and even chest congestion in this list.

Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus): Antiviral and immunity-enhancer. If you tend to get every bug that goes around during the winter, you can build up your resistance to disease by taking this Chinese tonic herb on a daily basis. It’s safe to take indefinitely.

Garlic (Allium sativum): Antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, anticancer and cardiovascular tonic par excellence. The best home remedy for colds is to eat two cloves of raw garlic at the onset of symptoms. Chop or crush the cloves to release the allicin (a sulfur compound with strong antibiotic effects) and put them on a sandwich or swallow them in apple sauce. Don’t chew and the garlic won’t stay on your breath.

Mullein (Verbascum thapsus): Expectorant, antitussive. Tincture of mullein relieves chest congestion and dry, bronchial coughs. Mullein oil can be used to treat ear infections.

Calendula (Calendula officinalis): Soothing. Calendula lotions and salves, made from the bright orange flowers of this popular ornamental plant, are gentle and effective remedies for chapped skin and chapped lips. Apply as needed.

Tiger Balm: This Chinese herbal remedy, based on camphor and menthol, is great for easing bronchial congestion. The camphor and menthol have a warming action that brings more blood to the area. Just rub Tiger Balm on the chest and cover with a warm towel.

Vitamin C: Vitamin C functions as a powerful antioxidant that has a role in the repair and regeneration of tissues. It may also support healthy immune function.

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October 15, 2009 Tags: congestion, flu, flu season, garlic, herbal, optimist, remedies, research, sore throat, vitamin c, well Posted in: Motivation

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