By: Sima Morrison
With many things going on in our world these days, it is important that we keep our bodies strong. We wanted to focus on some natural anti-virals that are worth having in your holistic medicine cabinet right now. These supplements can support boosting your immune system from colds and viruses. Taking care of yourself during these stressful times is the most important thing you can do. Practicing mediation, salt baths, grounding nature walks, a nutrient balanced diet, and being kind to yourself are essential for a happy balanced you.
Olive Leaf Extract
For thousands of years, Mediterranean cultures have been using parts of the olive tree to treat many health challenges. The leaf is extremely powerful. Studies have shown that the leaf has been effective in treating infections, inflammation and high blood pressure. The polyphenol compound oleuropein has immune boosting, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits. We always have this in the house and use it during flu season and it really helps strengthen the immune system.
Oregano Oil
Oregano (Origanum vulgare) is an herb that is a member of the mint family (Labiatae). This carvacrol oil helps assist fighting bacteria. This is used to treat the common cold, strep throat and supports the immune system. This potent herb contains properties that are antiviral and anti-fungal. Oil of oregano contains two powerful compounds called carvacrol and thymol, both of which have been shown in studies to have strong anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. Oregano oil is considered a natural alternative to prescription antibiotics.
Zinc
Zinc is a type of metal and an essential trace element. Present within all bodily tissue and needed for healthy cell division, it acts like an antioxidant within the body, fighting free-radical damage and slowing the aging process. Zinc plays an important role keeping your body healthy from cold and flus. You can also get zinc from your diet as well. Zinc plays a large role in supporting the liver and warding off unfriendly microorganisms, bugs and viruses.
Black Elderberry
Strengthens the immune system and its health benefits include naturally improving sinus issues, nerve pain, inflammation, chronic fatigue, and histamine issues. When used in the early stages of showing signs of a cold it can help relieve and shorten the duration of cold and flu. The berries contain chemical compounds called anthocyanidins, which are known to have immuno-stimulant effects.
Cat’s Claw
There are many uses for the bark and root of cat’s claw. This powerful herb is an anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and anti-fungal. It’s also used to protect the digestive tract. Cat’s Claw is a great way to boost up the immune system during cold and flu season. If you're around people who are sick or you feel something coming on you can make cat’s claw into an herbal tea. The best way to consume cat’s claw regularly is by making an herbal tea with a tablespoon of the herb in eight ounces of water.
Echinacea
Echinacea is one of the most powerful natural antivirals against human viruses. It contains a compound called echinacein that inhibits bacteria and viruses from penetrating healthy cells. This helps decrease the chances of contracting any type of infection while consuming echinacea. Echinacea is best when used before you feel a cold coming on or when you are in a situation where the body is stressed.
Sima Morrison, founder of House of Citrine, is a vibrant soul with a potent zest for life and the beauty in its simple pleasures. As a holistic nutritionist and herbalism student, Sima has made it her life's journey to experience, to empower, and to explore the synergy between the mind and the body, embracing the liberty and power of mindful living. She earned her Bachelors Degree in Science in Public Health Education from California State University Northridge and studied Holistic Nutrition at The Natural Healing Institute.