2009 H1N1, the Swine flu virus, is a primary, current health concern. The virus has been declared pandemic by the World Health Organization in June, 2009. The viral infection causes common flu symptoms of fever, headache, dry coughing, body aches, stuffy nose, and weariness.
Remember, an ounce of prevention, is worth a pound of cure. The way to prevent or minimize flu severity is a healthy lifestyle that keeps one's immune system optimal.
Eat wholesome foods, the less processed the better. Cook for yourself and family from fresh or frozen ingredients. For example, a stew of tomatoes, basil, garlic, onions, potatoes, carrots and burdock root sautéed first in olive or sesame oil with chicken, beef, buffalo, game or fish (organic preferred). Or brown rice and lentil casserole with vegetables. Aromatic seasonings such as garlic and oregano have anti-viral action.
Take omega 3 fatty acids, either as a supplement, 2-4 grams daily or add 1-2 Tbs organic flaxseed oil to a serving of soups, stews, cooked cereals or protein shakes. Omega 3 oils are essential for a healthy immune system.
Breathe therapy exercises, such as yoga or aerobic work-outs, especially in fresh outdoor air, improves lung resistance. Vitamin A, either from carotene rich yellow/orange and green fruits and vegetables, or as 25,000 IU supplement form, helps keep the respiratory mucus membranes healthy and resistant.
Vitamin D3 supplementation is critical in the fall and winter when the sun light exposure in the northern latitudes is insufficient. Vitamin D is vital for immune resistance to viral infections like the cold and flu. Teenagers and adults need 3000-5000 IU daily, infants and toddlers 1000 IU, and older children 2000 IU.
Vitamin C, and Zinc do help as well.
Homeopathic remedies that are preventative for influenza include Boiron's Oscillicoccinum, or any manufacturers Influenzinum. You can begin taking either Oscillicoccinum or Influenzinum (9C, 12C, or 30C) if you are exposed to the flu. Take one dose each week for four weeks at that time, or you can take it once a week for four doses during the flu season.
Individual homeopathic remedies either self prescribed or from a classical professional homeopath have been highly effective in the treatment of the flu. The most effective is the single remedy that best matches the individual's symptom profile or that of the genus epidemicus, most common symptom pattern of the epidemic. Aconite, Gelsemium, Bryonia and Eupatorium Perfolatum are examples of commonly used remedies for influenza. Consult a reference self-treatment book, or a professional homeopathic or naturopathic physician, such as myself, Dr Brent Mathieu, for more information.
Herbal remedies are often of benefit also. Many herbs such as Yarrow or Lomatium have anti-viral action, and numerous herbal, such as Echinacea, or mushroom extracts tone the immune systems and increase our natural defense reactions to the flu.
Urgent natural and holistic care for influenza is available as an alternative or adjunct to conventional medical treatment.