Natural H1N1 Protection
Natural H1N1 Protection
Tracey Folkard BSc. ,N.D.
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In recent years viral pandemics have become the norm. SARS, avian flu and West Nile virus are some examples. Now it is the H1N1. There are many environmental, social and economic factors that make such pandemics possible.
·      Overuse of pharmaceutical drugs encourages mutation of viruses.
·      Increased global travel.
·      Global warming.
·      Habitat destruction.
·      Animals are caged in unhealthy and stressful conditions in close proximity to each other. This reduces resistance to infection and makes it easier for viruses to infect new species.
·      Humans are becoming increasingly unhealthy and immune compromised.
The medical approach to treating these kinds of health concerns has been through the use of drugs, vaccines and attempting to destroy intermediate host populations, such as mosquitoes. None of these approaches are very effective. Most viruses mutate so fast that new strains can evolve within a couple of months. Usually by the time the vaccine is available, the virus has already mutated. Public health professionals tend to promote fear among the general population as a means of advocating their programs. This approach is counter-productive since fear is one of the most powerful immune suppressors.
More people die from car accidents than from the flu and in the spirit of selling more newspapers they fail to tell you all the details. Epidemiology reports offer more information about the cause of death. For example the boy in Toronto actually died from severe electrolyte deficiency when he suffered from a high fever, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea after playing in a hockey tournament all weekend. I believe this boy could have been saved had he been treated properly. No one else in his bus died.
In reality, the majority of people who are exposed to these viruses will only experience mild to moderate flu-like symptoms. With a little bit of effort toward a healthier lifestyle you can avoid it all together. Individuals most likely to develop severe symptoms are those with a compromised immune function. By focusing on identifying those factors which lead to a compromised immune function we can put together an action plan to resist viruses.
·      Poor Diet. Processed and chemically laden food with insufficient consumption of fresh fruits/vegies and high quality protein.
·      Exposure to chemical pollutants.
·      Regular use of social or pharmaceutical drugs.
·      Lack of exercise.
·      Insufficient sleep.
·      Too much stress. Slow down and breathe. Oxygen is what your body use’s to fight off infection (keep your pH alkaline). Create boundaries to allow yourself quality time to nurture yourself.
·      Negative emotions. Happiness, contentment, compassion and love stimulate immune function.
·      Vaccinations/Immunizations. Yes these do compromise the immune system due to adjuncts-thimerosol, formaldehyde and chemical preservatives. They are all neurotoxic. Safer alternatives include homeopathic nosodes and immune enhancing nutrition, herbs and nutrients.
Nothing can substitute for a healthy diet and lifestyle. I recommend lots of fresh garlic, turmeric, ginger, coriander, curry, tamarind, lemon grass, mushrooms (shitake, reishi etc.), beet juice, dandelion and celery. Populations consuming traditional Indian and Tai food have the least occurrences of H1N1. Exercise at least ½ an hour per day. My personal favourite is hot yoga. Rebounding also drains the lymph system. Drink lots of water and electrolytes to flush out toxins including bacteria and viruses. Consider air filtration with UV, hepa and ionization.
Immune stimulant herbs can boost immune functioning in the short term and are used to treat infections in progress. They include: Echinacea, plantago, inula, elder, goldenrod, nettle, goldenseal, osha, licorice etc. Combine three or four herbs and take them three to four times per day in water for one to two weeks. Other important antiviral herbs that can prevent illness include: hyssop, lemon balm, oregano, rosemary, verbena, ginseng, st.john’swort, larch, astragalus, reishi, maitake and olive leaf.
There are many essential nutrients that are directly or indirectly important for proper immune function. B vitamins, antioxidants and minerals (especially calcium and magnesium) help us to cope with stress. The research for anti-viral action supports vitamin C, lysine, vitamin D3, zinc, selenium, bioflavanoids, and polyphenols.
With all the known research on natural antiviral treatments it is my opinion that we should stop the fear mongering and give people back a sense of control over their health through proper health education. This in turn would stimulate both social and environmental change. Stop relying on medical ignorance as the sole means to an end. Regain power over your health. Your body will reward you by feeling happier, healthier, energized, confident, and stronger the more you commit to a healthy lifestyle.