Viruses

A virus is a small contagious agent that can infect humans, plants, animals, and bacteria. There are hundreds of viruses that can infect humans and make them sick and are found in just about all ecosystems. One of the most common human virus is the flu or influenza.

Other human viruses include herpes simplex type 1 and 2, HIV which causes Aids, human papilloma virus which is thought to be responsible for cervical cancer in women, and the rotavirus which is to blame for over 500,000 child deaths each year throughout the world and 55,000 children hospitalized in the US.

Natural Remedies for Viruses:

Viral Gastroenteritis or Stomach Flu:

There is no real cure for this other than prevention. Wash hands throughout the day when necessary, avoid eating foods and drinking water that could be tainted. The stomach flu is an intestinal infection with symptoms of diarrhea, abdominal cramping, nausea, and possibly fever.

It can develop by coming in contact with someone who is already infected or by consuming bad food and water. Because you can become dehydrated, drink plenty of fluids, this will also help with diarrhea. If you are feeling nauseous an effective remedy is ginger. Ginger has antiviral properties and can be drunk as a tea by boiling ginger root in water or drinking ginger ale.

Elderberry:

Elderberry contains natural substances called flavonoids. They seem to help reduce swelling, fight inflammation, and boost the immune system.

Lab tests have shown that elderberry can be used to help fight the flu and H1N1 viral infection. Black Elderberry extract will strengthen human cell membranes and make it more difficult for active viruses to infect our bodies. You can use the extract or make a tea or infusion with elder plant flowers.

You can use elderberry extract over time in order to build up your immune system. The steam from the elderberry tea can be used as an expectorant, helping to clear mucous from the bronchial tubes and lungs.

Oregano Oil:

Oregano oil is a very strong antiviral and antibacterial agent that contains the flavonoid constituent carvacrol. Traditionally used for any throat, ear, or sinus infection this oil can also be combined with mint and used to treat digestive issues.

Sore throats, swollen throat glands, mononucleosis, and even tonsillitis respond to treatment with oregano oil. Because this is so strong it is important that you keep it out of the reach of children, that you always dilute just one or two drops in water or juice. Never apply directly to the skin or take without dilution.

Other Herbs:

There are many herbs with anti-viral properties, and some that also have antibacterial and antiseptic qualities. Many of these herbs work better in combination with other herbs. Herbal antiviral options include:

  • Osha for lung and bronchial infections.
  • Olive leaf is a great antibacterial, antiviral, antioxidant, antifungal, and anti-parasitic herb. It is an effective treatment against the AIDS virus, herpes viruses, flu, the common cold, meningitis, shingles, chronic fatigue syndrome caused by viral infection, pneumonia, tuberculosis, dental infections, and more.
  • St. John's Wort