Natural Antiviral Powerhouses

By now you’ve probably seen the headlines claiming the new coronavirus out of China this Winter is the worst ever. While the cases of coronavirus from China is estimated to be nearly 20,000 currently with over 400 dead, we can't be certain how severe this new virus will be. To be on the safe side, remember to be cautious about who you're around and keep your hands clean! For a primer of natural ways to fortify your immune system... read on.

Conventional Prevention: Both types of virus are most commonly spread by respiratory droplets from infected people, so preventing that spread is key. The CDC recommends symptomatic people (cough, runny nose, fever, etc) wear a face mask to prevent spreading the disease, practice frequent hand washing or hand sanitizer use, avoid exposure to sick people and stay home when you’re sick. People who are healthy enough for a vaccine are recommended to get a flu vaccine.

Natural Prevention: The main idea in the complementary and alternative medicine world is our best course of action is readying the body to be able to withstand any kind of immune insult. That means that maintaining a healthy body is our best chance at preventing infection. In addition to the CDC guidelines, I would recommend patients add immune boosting nutrients, herbs and naturopathic practices:

All supplements listed below can be found by following this link to my online dispensary. Once you sign up, they are listed under my “Anti-Virals” category. Of course, it is best to be checked out by your family healthcare provider if you suspect you may have any type of serious disease especially if you are immunocompromised, pregnant or medically frail.

• Elderberry Syrup - This great tasting herb has been shown to exhibit antiviral activity and is a fantastic daily supplement for adults and children alike. My favorite comes from Gaia Herbs.
• Immune Mushrooms - I love mushrooms for strengthening the immune system. Use the powder in juices, smoothies, add to your coffee or just shoot it back in water. Mushrooms are fantastic for energy as well. Om Organic Mushroom Nutrition - Immune Mushroom Superfood Powder is packed with mushroom goodness.
• Liquid Immune Combination - One of the great herbs - Osha root or Ligusticum porteri has been shown to, like Elderberry, have antiviral properties. There are lots of herbal immune combos on the market and I like this one from Herb Pharm - Rapid Immune Boost. This would be taken frequently immediately upon onset of any symptoms.
• Hydrotherapy - Warming socks and contrasting hot and cold showers are a wonderful way to strengthen the immune system. Take a look at my warming socks video!
• Avoid food sensitivities as well as mucus-forming foods to keep mucus membranes healthy. Common mucus-forming foods are dairy, sugar and citrus foods.
• ​Drinking plenty of water & get LOTS of rest

Be Well,

Dr. Katie
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