Prevent and Cure the Flu (Influenza)
The Comprehensive Guide by Pharmacist Tom

Unlike the common cold, the flu (influenza) can results in serious health complications. In the past, epidemics of influenza killed millions of people worldwide.

Introduction

Facts and Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

Natural Home Remedies to Prevent and Cure the Flu

Natural Remedy	What experts say about them
Echinacea (Echinacea purpurea)	(What's this?) Echinacea is shown to reduce the duration of the symptoms in clinical studies. This herb is known to boost the immune system. Dose: Take 300 mg three times daily. Tincture - Use 3 to 5 mL three times daily. Take it for up to 14 days with the first appearance of symptoms. Avoid using it regularly as it doesn't seem to prevent you from catching the influenza virus. Experts suggest not using echinacea in children due to reports of allergic reactions such as rash.
Vitamin C	Vitamin C enhances the immune system function by increasing white blood cells activities. In one study, subjects given 100 mg of vitamin C daily for 10 months were 28% less likely to catch the influenza virus. Moreover, their symptoms lasted 10% shorter. Another study showed that mega dose of vitamin C reduced the duration of the influenza symptoms significantly. Other studies show similar benefits (although there are also studies that show it doesn't work). Dose: Take 1,000 to 2,000 mg (1 to 2 grams) three or four times daily. Note: Click here to get details on megadose therapy with vitamin C. Ultra high dose vitamin C therapy (over 3,000 mg daily and usually much higher) should be supervised by a healthcare professional experienced in this area.
Elderberry	Elderberry is a rich source of anthocyanidins, tannins, flavonoids and rutin. These chemical substances are known to benefit and regulate the immune system in our body as well as acting as an antioxidant. A small well-designed clinical study showed that subjects taking elderberry recovered from influenza faster than those taking a placebo. Similar results may be expected for treating influenza as well. Dose: Typical dosage used is 15 mL (1 tablespoon) taken up to four times daily. Take within 2 days of the start of symptoms for maximum benefit.
Garlic	Some clinical studies show that taking garlic regularly seems to reduce the chance of catching the flu and the common cold. Dose: Take 200 to 400 mg up to three times daily. Click here to see the comprehensive review on this versatile herb.
Ginseng	Ginseng is shown to stimulate the immune system and may be helpful in preventing and treating the flu and the common cold. Dose: Take 200 mg daily to prevent catching the flu. Higher dosages have been used. Click here to get the full review and other dosages for ginseng.
Andrographis	Andrographis stimulates the immune system and increases the activity of germ-fighting white blood cells. It also seems have anti-allergic activities to help with symptoms such as running nose and watery eyes. Andrographolide is the main active ingredient found in andrographis. Initial clinical studies suggest it may be helpful in treating flu symptoms and reducing the risk of complications. (Clinical studies have shown that it works in treating the common cold.) Dose: Take 200 to 300 mg along with ginseng three times daily. Take for a duration of 3 to 5 days.
Astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus)	There is some evidence that taking astragalus may reduce the chances of catching the flu. Studies show that it can boost the immune system and have a positive effect on the immune cells in our body. Dose: Suggested dose to use is 250 mg four times daily.
Sage	Sage is shown to have antiviral activities in animal and lab studies. Mouthwash containing sage reduces the pain from sore throat. It is commonly used in Europe for treating mouth and throat inflammation. The German Commission E approves its use for treating a sore throat. Dose: Infusion - Use 3 grams of the herb in 150 mL of water or use 3 drops of the essential oil in 100 mL of warm water. Gargle up to three times daily or as often as needed to get relief from sore throat.
Slippery Elm (Ulmus rubra)	Slippery elm lozenges help treat the pain from a sore throat and the cough. It is a demulcent which soothes and protects an irritated mucous membrane. Dose: As a lozenge, follow manufacturer's direction. A typical lozenge contains about 150 mg of slippery elm.
Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum)	Boneset is shown in lab studies to be effective in boosting immune functions of the white blood cells. It has been traditionally used to help treat viral infections. Dose: Steep 1 to 2 grams of the herb in 150 mL of boiling water. Drink three times daily as needed during the duration of the symptoms. Extract (1:1) - Take 1 to 2 mL three times daily.
Goldenseal	Goldenseal may provide relief from the pain of a sore throat. It possesses antiviral and immune boosting effects in laboratory studies. Dose: Suggested dosage is 0.5 to 1 gram of the powder in capsules or tablet form taken three times daily. Extract (1:1) - Take 0.3 to 1 mL up to three times daily. Tincture (1:10) - Take 2 to 4 mL up to three times daily.
Oil of Oregano	Oil of oregano shows potent activity against viruses and may be helpful in killing off the influenza virus. Dose: Typical dosage used is 500 mg up to four times daily as per manufacturer directions.
Cordyceps	Cordyceps regulates and boost the immune system. It can be helpful in treating viral infections such as with the influenza virus. Dose: Take 500 mg two or three times daily.
Peppermint Oil	Helpful Peppermint oil seems to help treat sinus and chest congestion. Dose: Use 3 to 4 drops of peppermint oil in 150 mL of hot water and inhale up to three times daily to help with nasal congestion. Nasal ointment - Use a 1% to 5% nasal gel applied into the nose up to three times daily to help with a stuffy nose. Humidifier - Place several drops of peppermint oil (along with eucalyptus oil if desired) into a humidifier.
Eucalyptus Oil	Helpful Similar to peppermint oil, eucalyptus may be helpful with sinus and chest congestion. Dose: Use 3 to 4 drops of eucalyptus oil in 150 mL of hot water and inhale up to three times daily. Humidifier - The essential oil may be added to a humidifier along with peppermint oil.
Ginger (Zingiber officinale)	Helpful Ginger is helpful in treating sore throat, fever and pain. It will also settle the stomach and reduce coughing. Its sedative effect will help you sleep better at night. Dose: Take 500 mg or use the tea formulation. Use up to four times daily as needed for the duration of the flu.
Catnip	Helpful Catnip is classified as a diaphoretic (promotes sweating), thus it may be helpful in treating colds with a fever. Dose: Use prepared tea bags or make a decoction by boiling 1 to 2 teaspoon in a cup of water (250 mL) for 10 minutes. Drink three times daily.
Aniseed Blackberry Blueberry Borage seed oil Forsythia Honeysuckle Stinging nettle Yarrow	Helpful The following herbs have been traditionally used to treat the symptoms of the flu and the common cold. Some of these herbs have been shown to have antiviral activities and immune boosting activity in lab studies. Others, such as blueberry and blackberry show anti-inflammatory benefits and is traditionally used to treat sore throat and other flu symptoms.

Facts and Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

Facts on the influenza virus (the flu)

What are the types of flu virus?

The Swine Flu (H1N1)- What is it and why all the dangers, warnings and global concerns?

Why does the flu vaccine need to be "updated" each year?

The flu vs. the common cold - What are the symptoms?

How long does the flu last? What's the incubation period?

What else can I do to prevent catching it or to get relief from the flu?

• It is important to wash hands frequently and keep it away from eyes, nose and mouth.

• Get enough rest and sleep.

• Exercise regularly to maintain the health of your body and immune system

• Work on controlling and reducing stress.

• Maintain a healthy diet by eating more fruits and vegetables.

• Consider preparing chicken soap containing ginger, scallions and rice noodles. It is shown in some small studies to be helpful in fighting  off the symptoms of the common cold.

• Meditation may be helpful to regulate the immune system and reduce stress.

• Salt water gargle is helpful for treating sore throat.

• Use a nasal lubricant gel to keep the nose moist and prevent irritation from frequent nose blowing if necessary.

• Humidify the air with a humidifier to make your sore throat more comfortable.

• Sneezing easily spreads the virus. Cover your mouth and nose and sneeze into a tissue or onto your shirt sleeve. Wash your hands right after. Sneeze towards to floor to avoid making the virus airborne.

• Avoid sharing cups, knives, forks and spoons in the kitchen.

• Try to use separate face towels and hand towels for each family member.

• Try to stay away from those with the flu when possible. Indeed, crowded living and working areas increases the chance that you might catch the influenza virus.

• Try to disinfect your bathroom, especially if someone in the house has the flu.

• If practical, sleep in a separate room to avoid transmitting the virus to your spouse or children.

• Wear a face mask (N95 type), if practical, to avoid spreading the virus.

• Smoking increases the likelihood of getting a flu as it weakens the immune system.

What diet should I be on if I want to prevent or cure the flu?

• Water, lemon or herbal tea - avoids dehydration
• Fruits and vegetables
• Light meals are recommended
• Increase garlic, ginger and onions

• Sugar - It negatively affects the immune system.
• Diary products - Milk and cheese may worsen congestion as they promote mucus production.
• Avoid fruit juice as they are high in sugar content. You may dilute the juice first to reduce the amount of sugar you take in.
• Excessive caffeine reduces the amount of zinc in your body. Zinc is an essential mineral for maintaining immune function.

What are the complications of the flu?