There has been much talk about the flu in recent weeks, particularly H1N1, also known as the human swine flu. Several years ago we had avian or bird flu. Although many people take precautions such as receiving the flu shot in the fall, and practising universal precautions such as hand washing, we need to look at what the flu is, and how it can affect us. Also, we will address how we can lessen its effects through optimizing our immune system.

The influenza virus is a highly contagious viral infection of the respiratory tract which affects all related organs – nose, throat, bronchial tubes, lungs, and can cause inflammation and pain in muscles and joints. This virus spreads from person to person by direct contact – either airborne droplets from a cough or sneeze or by coming in contact with such things as doorknobs, telephones, toys, etc. after an infected person has.

Measures to lessen the effects should be used by high-risk groups, namely, young children, the elderly, people with chronic diseases or weak immune systems, and professionals dealing with these groups. One method is the flu shot in the fall prior to flu season. Another is using homeopathic and herbal products to boost your immune system so that you are less susceptible to viruses. Still another is to take homeopathic remedies that provide temporary relief of the symptoms. Together with these remedies, the best way to treat the flu is to get plenty of bed rest and drink plenty of fluids.

ImmunityPlus is an herbal tonic used to support your entire immune system. For children, KiddieBoost helps optimize the immune system of children from the age of 12 months. FluGo is a homeopathic remedy that temporarily relieves the symptoms of flu and cold such as cough, runny nose, fever, sore throat, and fatigue. Throat and Tonsil Dr. provides temporay homeopathic relief of sore throat, swollen glands, and inflamed tonsils.

Common sense plays a major role in fighting the flu. If you do not improve significantly in a few days, you should seek medical advice as avian flu and swine flu cannot be diagnosed by symptoms alone.

About the Author

Ruth Rideout is retired from the field of education and has begun a business using natural, herbal, alternative remedies to treat common ailments. She believes that natural alternatives are valuable therapies used today in conjunction with conventional medicines to support emotional, mental, and physical well-being for both you and your pets.

References

http://www.fightflu.ca/sym-eng.html

http://www.cdc.gov/flu/avian/gen-info/facts.htm

http://www.nativeremedies.com

Ruth Rideout