Herbal Remedies for the cold and flu season

Herbs have been used as medicines for thousands of years. In fact, many of the pharmaceutical products sold today are synthetic chemicals based on herbal extracts. Herbal medicines may contain a whole plant, parts of plants, or extracts of either one or a combination of plants. Many people prefer to use herbal medicines because in many cases they give beneficial effects without the side effects caused by many pharmaceutical drugs.
In the western world, in the last 10-20 years, there has been a tremendous growth in the interest in herbal medicines and more natural and less toxic therapies have become increasingly popular. Scientific researchers have also produced a large amount of information on the use of plants and plant substances as medical agents. Much of this information provides scientific validation for the uses of plants which have been known to healers for thousands of years.
While herbs are, in many cases, free of the side effects of pharmaceutical drugs, they must be used appropriately. Many herbs have potent effects and may also interact with other medications you may be taking. It is always wise to check on these interactions if you plan to take herbal medicines, especially if you are pregnant or have a chronic medical problem. These are some of the basic remedies for cold and flu symptoms. There are little to no side effects associated with these particular vitamins, minerals and herbs.

Zinc is one of the immune boosters your body can use if you are dealing with a cold or flu bug. Large amounts of zinc may impair copper absorption and reduce your ability to taste sweet and salt. If you were to take large doses of zinc for long periods of time a copper deficiency can lead to heart disease.
Echinacea stimulates the immune system, helps in tissue healing and has anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibacterial and anti-cancer effects. Echinacea should not be used for prolonged periods of time as your system will develop a resistance to the herb.
Astragalus strengthens the digestion and stimulates the immune system. It also aids adrenal gland function, acts as a diuretic and dilates blood vessels. Astragalus should not be used in cases of acute infections or fevers.
Cayenne contains carotene molecules which have powerful antioxidant effects. It aids in digestion, improves circulation and lowers cholesterol and blood fat levels. Applied topically it acts as a pain reliever. High doses on an empty stomach can cause gut irritation and eventually ulcers in susceptible people.
Garlic is an antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral and anti-inflammatory. Boosts immune function and limits free radical damage to blood fats. Taking garlic at the onset of a sore throat is an ally in fighting infection. The only side effect of garlic is that your friends may keep their distance as the stronger the garlic the more bacteria fighting properties it has.
Goldenseal prevents bacteria from attaching to cells, stimulates the immune system, and lowers fevers. It can be used to treat respiratory infections and as a mouthwash and to treat skin infections. Goldenseal should not be used in pregnancy or in cases of high blood pressure.
Horseradish root stimulates blood circulation and has antibiotic action. It can be used externally and internally, to treat lung and urinary infections, and rheumatic conditions. Take care using it externally as it can blister the skin. Anyone with low thyroid function or taking thyroxin should avoid horseradish.
Sage is anti-microbial, astringent and anti-inflammatory actions. Sage is used to treat colds, sore throats and indigestion. It should not be used during pregnancy.
These are some of the main herbs that are used to treat symptoms of colds and flu. Vitamin C is also very beneficial in lessening the effects of a cold. You can take 3,000 -4,000 mg per day but should build up slowly and go back down gradually. Taking too much Vitamin C too quickly can cause problems with the kidneys and can cause diarrhea. Many studies have been done on the benefits of C by increasing the production of B and T cells and other white blood cells, including those that destroy foreign micro-organisms. It also increases interferon levels and antibody responses and has antiviral and antibacterial effects. These effects lead to improved resistance against infections.