Boost the Immune System and Beat the Flu. Naturally.

My apologies for being MIA and very scarce with my posts. But now that the holidays are far behind us, it’s time to get back to cooking, preaching and lovin’.

On my last preach post ‘The Flu: To Shoot or not to Shoot”, I pointed out the ineffectiveness and dangers associated with the flu shot. Hopefully I was able to provide some insightful information for those of you that were having trouble making a decision regarding the shot. Now I would like to tell you about the many ways you can boost your immune system naturally and harmlessly.

At the first sign of an itchy, sore throat or sniffle, we are often quick to reach for the pills or syrups in hopes to relieve us of worsening symptoms. However, cold medications often just suppress our symptoms, without improving the immune system and providing no means of prevention from further infection. I am going to share with you 5 magical remedies that not only improve symptoms but also boost the immune system, protecting and preventing you from getting sick in the first place.

1: Garlic

Garlic has become my #1 friend this flu season. Garlic is one of nature’s best anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-microbial herbs. Garlic is very effective at killing parasites and bacteria, which also means it is effective against yeast and candidiasis. This magical herb strengthens the immune system preventing cold/flu symptoms and improving existing ones.  It is even known to deactivate carcinogens. When I am really feeling vulnerable, I add a couple of additional cloves to my meal and even throw a clove in my smoothie. You need a lot of berries to mask the taste however. Before going to bed, I crush about 10 cloves in a bowl and place it by my bedside so through out the night I breathe in all the beneficial properties of this powerful herb. You won’t need a pocket full of crumpled up tissue with this great remedy, but you may want to carry some breath mints:)

2: Ginger

Not only is this herb a wonderful anti-bacterial, anti-microbial, immune booster and natural decongestant, ginger is also known to relieve nausea, inflammation and constipation. Significant evidence is now showing that ginger can help inhibit the production of cancer cell growth and destroy living cancer cells. When used for cold symptom relief, ginger tea is best. Add 1 inch of grated ginger to 4 cups of boiling water. Let simmer for 10-15 minutes. Strain and squeeze half a fresh lemon. Sweeten with a bit of honey if desired. Drink throughout the day.

3: Elderberry

Probably the most amazing characteristic about this powerful antioxidant is it’s ability to block viruses from entering cells. Therefore, this fruit is one of the greatest remedies for the prevention of colds and flu. Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, elderberry is great at relieving coughs and congestion. Along with cold and flu relief, elderberry has shown benefits in lowering cholesterol, improved vision and improved heart health. Elderberry can be found in capsule or syrup form.

4: Oil of Oregano

I don’t know anything more powerful than this potent oil. Oil of oregano is an anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-microbial and anti-fungal. I literally sleep with my bottle beside my bed; therefore if I awake with the slightest tickle in my throat, my little army is within arms reach. Oil of oregano is wonderful at preventing colds and flu as well and diminishing symptoms. This oil can also be helpful for digestive disorders, muscle and joint relief, respiratory problems as well as skin blemishes. I recommend everyone to have a bottle of this ‘cure all’ on your nightstand, especially during flu season. Just a few drops under the tongue or a few drops in your favorite juice for the less daring.

5. Probiotics

Last, but certainly not least, probiotics are a must have this cold & flu season. Many people have heard about the benefits of probiotics for the treatment of yeast and gastrointestinal health, but many have not heard how important this supplement is for the immune system. Probiotics stimulate the production of healthy bacteria, and immune cells. With an increases number of immune cells, immune response is more effective, preventing the spread of viruses and infection. Production of mucosal tissues, which are tissue that line the GI tract, mouth, respiratory system and urinary tract, are stimulated by probiotics. Research is showing that up to 70% of the entire immune system capacity lies within these mucosal tissues.

Medicine has traveled great lengths from the days of medicine men and witchcraft. The drugs and cures that exist today and the lives these drugs have saved is remarkable. However, sometimes we are so caught up with the complex, genius inventions of today that we forget to look in our own back yards. Mother Nature has provided us with plentiful gifts to help better our lives. Remember, pure and simple does not mean inadequate.