It may not be the depths of winter yet but virulent strains of flu are already rearing their ugly heads and causing concern about the necessity for getting a flu jab for those at risk. But before you run to the GP, have a closer look at effective natural alternatives. Sage Organic have tapped into the benefits of the plant world to formulate its new Echinacea Formula. All the herbs used are organically sourced and the magic is in the combination of plants, which encourage not only short-term immunity but also flu-fighting immune health in the long-term.
Are you at risk?
The Department of Health are currently running the Flu Immunisation Campaign 2003-2004.This aims to make sure that at least 70% of people over the age of 65 in this country get the ‘flu jab this winter. So if you are over a certain age you are considered to be at risk. Furthermore, you are in an 'at-risk group' if you have a chronic heart or chest complaint - including asthma; chronic kidney disease; diabetes; lowered immunity due to a disease or treatment such as steroid medication or cancer treatment; asplenia or splenic dysfunction. These at-risk groups only cover a small percentage of the population – so many of us don’t need to go running to the doctor every winter. Instead we can boost long-term immunity and fight the threat of ‘flu with a little help from Mother Nature.
Natural alternatives
When the symptoms of colds and flu appear, Echinacea, Garlic and Elderberry are a great team when used together to fight off pathogens and relieve respiratory discomfort. Echinacea now has quite a name for itself as a defender and booster of the immune system. Of the nine species of Echinacea, three are the most widely used – E. purpurea, E.pallida, and E.angustifolia. Whilst argument surrounds the question of which is the most beneficial, Sage Organic have included all three in their formula for maximum effect. A number of scientific studies have confirmed that Echinacea is a potent immune system stimulant which fights inflammation and infection. It is a worthy competitor of the over the counter decongestants and antibiotics that you may reach for when you have a cold, and when taken at recommended doses it is free from side effects.
Echinacea is not the only answer
When choosing a partner for Echinacea, there is none better than the herb Garlic. Garlic fortifies the body’s natural defences and has potent anti-viral properties as it contains allicin and other sulphur compounds. It also supports health in the long-term due to its benefits to the heart and circulation via its cholesterol lowering action. Elderberry combines very well with both Echinacea and Garlic. You may have heard of Elderberry wine, but did you know that the berries themselves are an excellent tonic for the common cold and other respiratory infections? They encourage sweating, reduce inflammation and sooth coughs which is just what you need when you are trying to naturally expel cols and ‘flu. Research suggests that the phytochemicals in elderberries bind to flu viruses, preventing them invading cells and replicating. Bioflavonoids in the fruits may also act as a deterrent to the influenza virus.
Long-term immunity
Whilst Echinacea, Garlic, and Elderberry work hard to get rid of colds that may have already developed, other herbs in the formula are priming the immune system for health in the long-term. Olive leaf has been used traditionally to disinfect wounds and scientific research has discovered a plant chemical in the leaves called oleuropein, which appears to kill bacteria and fungi.
Acerola Cherry is a bright red cherry-like fruit which is one of nature’s richest sources of vitamin C. Vitamin C is found in high concentrations in white blood cells and has been reported to increase the levels of these immune cells within the body. Vitamin C deficiency is also thought to depress to immune system. This vitamin is a potent antioxidant that helps to protect the body cells, including those of the immune system. It is thought that taking Vitamin C on a regular basis helps the body to increase resistance to infection. Long-term immune defence is also enhanced by the herb Astragalus. This plant helps to strengthen the immune system on many levels and is an ideal immune tonic for long-term use. This is one of the best natural remedies for prevention and treatment of summer colds.
Seek and destroy
Goldenseal is another immune fortifying herb. It has an infection-fighting antibiotic and antiseptic action, which makes it the perfect accompaniment to the other herbs in Sage Organics Echinacea formula. It is mainly the berberine and hydrastine found in hydrastis, which give the plant its antimicrobial action, encouraging white blood cells to seek and destroy unwanted bacteria and viruses. Sage Leaf helps to reduce the mucous membrane inflammation that is experienced with influenza. It also helps to reduce perspiration from the fever so often experienced with the ‘flu.
Visit Sage Organic online for more information
