Coping With Swine Flu – The Natural Way

Swine flu has arrived with a vengeance and governments are becoming worried at the possible scale of this pandemic – not least due to the fact that it could affect fragile economies with so many people having to take time off work.

But what can you do to avoid the worst of it?

First and foremost is to recognise the symptoms –

Symptoms

High fever (usually above 38 ºC).

Congestion

Cough.

Sneezing and sore throat.

Headache.

Aching muscles.

Chills and shivers despite fever.

Exhaustion or extreme fatigue.

Diarrhoea or a stomach upset

Swine flu, just like seasonal flu, is highly contagious and, once you have been exposed to it, the symptoms manifest within 48 hours. This is the point at which a person with swine flu is at their most infectious state.

The first line of defence is good hygiene practice. Wash your hands frequently – especially if you’ve just sneezed. And always use a tissue if you sneeze and put it in a bin as soon as possible – don’t use it more than once!

Boosting your immune system will help to reduce the chances of contracting swine flu.

Herbal products such as Echinacea and Goldenseal help to protect against flu type viruses that attack the upper respiratory tract.

Vitamin C provides an environment in which viruses cannot survive and at doses of 2000mg per day can help prevent viruses from invading cells. However, studies show that this works best as a preventative so should be taken regularly before you may have been in contact with swine flu. These same studies show that taking vitamin C at the onset of symptoms has little or no effect.

Zinc is the most important mineral involved in boosting your immune system.

Taking a zinc supplement (preferably a lozenge) at the onset of swine flu symptoms

Can help reduce the severity of the worst of swine flu symptoms by as much as 50%.

There are also a variety of plant-based products that actively fight viral infections. The best known ones are garlic, elderberry, oil of oregano and olive leaf extract. These are all potent anti-viral, anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidants that can be used to help fight the virus if you think you have contracted it.

Knowing what you’re dealing with, good hygiene practice and a sensible approach to complementary medicine (preferably under the supervision of a professional) can help you to avoid or reduce the symptoms of this infection.