Body Care with a Viral Infection {Part 2}

Viruses are around us, and for the most part, we usually have an immune system working hard for us to kill off viruses that come our way. And as our immune system works, we may not feel phased.

However, have you ever felt just a little more tired than usual? Have you felt slightly run down? Those are examples that your body is most likely fighting a battle for you! Yay to your immune system!

It's when your immune system is so overburdened that you get that cold or flu that takes you down. And that's ok! Your body tells you straight up that you need to halt and take care of yourself, because it cannot keep up!

If you didn't get a chance to read Body Care with a Viral Infection {Part 1}, take the time to do so now. It shares some dietary and supplementary suggestions to help support your immune system for any time of year.

Today I want to cover Botanicals and that can help boost your immune system.

NOTE: Immune boosters don't build new immune cells...they stimulate the immune system. Stimulants are often herbs, such a echinacea, and may NOT be safe for those with autoimmune diseases. If you have an autoimmune disease please discuss with your doctor your interest in how any of these botanicals may or may not be used in your individualized case.

Botanicals

Echinacea ~ you can take this in a tincture, have it as a tea, or in capsule form. You can find this at any health food store in immune combination formulas. Use echinacea at the first signs of an infection and continue for up to a week.

Goldenseal ~ both antimicrobial and healing to the mucous membranes. You can take this in combination with echinacea. Refer to dosing recommendations on the product packaging.

Ginger ~ increases perspiration which helps to cleanse the body and reduce the intensity of the virus. Ginger may also stimulate a fever to peak and then subside.

Sage and Thyme Tea ~ helps break up congestion and may help bring fever down. 

Coltsfoot Tea ~ helps to clear congestion from the lungs. 

Lungwort ~ good for coughs and / or diarrhea. It is high in Vitamin C, has astringent properties, and is known for its ability to clear a cough.

Catnip, Peppermint and Yarrow teas can be used for a fever.

Astragalus ~ has been shown to raise white blood cell count during viral infections.

Herbal Rub

Ingredients:

Combine oils and rub on chest to soothe the respiratory tract. 

Hydrotherapy

Certain herbal essential oils can be used in a humidifier or in bath water.

Knowing you have options to help your body in times when your immune system needs help can make all the difference.

Keep Body Care with a Viral Infection {Part 1} and {Part 2} saved for future reference.

May you Always be Healthy!

Your Holistic Nutritional Consultant