The Flu: Natural Solutions

We've been relatively lucky so far: the H1N1 virus that rippled through the world health community this spring causing thousands of deaths didn't mutate into a virus of mass killer dimensions. But it remains the flu, and therefore continues to be a concern, especially to the elderly and those with weak immune systems.

Major symptoms:

fever
cough
sore throat
fatigue
achy muscles and bones
poor appetite/nausea


You've got plenty of alternative medicine options at your fingertips if you decide not to get a flu shot, including Chinese Medicine modalities that have been used for centuries. Make acupuncture and herbs additions to an alternative health toolkit that may already include homeopathics and supplements, such as Vitamin C, L-Glycine, Zinc, Bromelain and Quercetin.


ACUPUNCTURE: A variety of commonly-used points clear out the lungs, ease headaches, relieve pain and stiffness and improve digestion.

HERBS: Different formulas aid in prevention and treatment. If you feel well but want to boost your immune system, try Yu Ping Feng San (Jade Windscreen Powder). At the first hint of symptoms, look to Sang Ju Yin with predominating cough or Yin Qiao San when there's sore throat. Formulas exist for more serious cases.

According to research:

Yu Ping Feng San acts as an immune-stimulant and anti-viral.
Sang Ju Yin is an anti-inflammatory that controls fever.
Yin Qiao San controls inflammation and fever, while acting as an anti-biotic and pain-relieving analgesic.

source: Chinese Herbal Formulas and Applications - Pharmacological Effects & Clinical Research - John K. Chen and Tina T. Chen - Art of Medicine Press (2009)


CUPPING: A glass cup that's been inserted with a lit, alcohol-laded cotton ball to remove the oxygen and create suction is placed upon the back. It can be rubbed across the shoulders, neck and upper back to improve blood circulation and relieve stiffness. They also can be placed directly over special acupuncture points that remove pathogens from the body, basically by "sucking" them out.

Eating a healthy diet that includes lots of fruit and vegetables is one of the best ways to stay healthy. The phytochemicals in vegetables and bioflavanoids in fruit provide anti-oxidants and anti-inflammatories that help build a balanced immune response. Pineapple is the best-known source of Bromelain. Quercetin, which is getting significant attention from researchers as a potential cancer fighter, is prominent in apples, tea, onions, tomatoes and leafy green vegetables. It's no surprise that experts advise people to load up on many of these same foods when they do get sick.

In case of the flu, avoid heavy foods and coffee until the symptoms subside. Concentrate on simpler foods, such as thin broths made with minimal amounts of chicken and vegetables. Try cooking them with ginger. As you begin to feel better, try heartier versions of your dishes until nausea or upset stomach is not longer an issue.

Another option to acupuncture, herbs and supplements is modern homeopathics. Produced by Heel, Guna and other companies, they can be used with any of the above treatments. In fact, you can co-mingle all these options. Finding natural solutions to the flu season involves some experimentation and common sense. Remember ...

Get plenty of rest
Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water
Avoid sick people and large groups as much as possible


Good luck!