There are many plants and products that have been used since ancient times to empower the body to fight infectious agents. The last 10-20 years brought us scientific evidence (through clinical trials) about the chemical composition of these products, therapeutic action, side effects and contraindications.
Echinacea is one of the plants with proven efficacy to increase the immunity of the body by stimulating the production of white blood cells, especially lymphocytes, and by increasing the amount of interferon. It also has antiviral and bacteriostatic properties. It can be given as tincture, a teaspoon 3-4 times/day, dissolved in a little water; or tablets with echinacea powder, about 1-2 g per day, depending on age. The treatment generally takes up to 30 days with a break or 10 days/month for 3 months.
Another product with extraordinary properties in the fight against infections is propolis, a real natural antibiotic. Internally, it is used in the form of tincture, honey with propolis, tablets or propolis stick for 15-21 days.
Oil extracted from black cumin seeds has immunomodulatory action and is beneficial in increasing overall body immunity. It is given as oil or capsules (for children and adults) in courses of 15-30 days.
Essential oils (mint, eucalyptus, pine, fir tree, tea tree, thyme) can be used internally with strong antiseptic and antibiotic action (depending on age, 1-5 drops 3 times/day, 10-15 days ). You can also add a few drops in the aromatherapy lamp or massage oil. Inhales can also be done to immerse the nose with a few drops of essential oil in water or hot tea.
Lifestyle is also very important. Healthy eating must include vegetables and herbs (garlic, onion, horseradish, ginger root, crucifers), fruits (berries, citrus, pomegranates, walnuts, peanuts, almonds), seeds, dairy products cold pressed oils, whole grains. We need to hydrate ourselves with water, with immune-increasing teas, antioxidant, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory action at the respiratory level: poplar buds, echinacea, sweet wood, thyme, basil, lichen, stone lichen, but also with cold pressed syrups with vitaminizing, tonic and immunostimulating properties of rose, sea buckthorn, blueberry, rich in vitamins A and C and bioflavonoids. And, of course, we have to do outdoor exercises.
This is good information, thanks, also if you keep your home air humid during the winter months, it will help reduce the opportunity for a cold. Diffusers are very popular for that, they don’t cost much and don’t take up much space.