Ah-Choo!
Battling The Common Cold & Flu

Every winter, the common cold and flu find a way to land many of us in bed with a stuffy head, runny nose and general feeling of blah. The National Center for Health Statistics estimates that approximately 22 million lost days of work are logged annually because of these microscopic monsters and more than $5 billion is spent on over-the-counter cold and flu remedies.

Science can't seem to cure either, but nature can ease the symptoms and--in some cases help--guard against infection.

A "Cold" Winter

he common cold is an acute infectious disease of the upper respiratory tract, caused by more than 100 kinds of viruses. The infection affects the mucous membranes of the nose and throat, causing such symptoms as nasal congestion and discharge, sore throat and coughing.

Colds are a real bummer because even a mild cold lasts an average of five to 10 days. Cold sufferers may feel like speed dialing their family doctor, but it would be a waste of what little energy a cold sufferer has because antibiotics are ineffective against a viral cold.

You can catch a cold at any time of the year, but most colds occur during the winter months. Common treatments for colds include the use of over-the-counter painkillers, decongestants and antihistamines. It's also important to flush your body with fluids--preferably juice or water--to prevent dehydration. Vitamin C, zinc lozenges and Echinacea form a natural products triad in the cold market. Each stimulates the immune system and can shorten the duration of a cold.

Another popular cold fighter--a cheap but smelly alternative--is garlic. One of the top 10 selling herbs in world, garlic has great usefulness for cold sufferers. Sulfur compounds are responsible for its immune-stimulating capabilities. Against colds, garlic exhibits antiviral benefits, as well as support for T-cell functions. Odorless capsules are available for those who can't tolerate the smell.

Goldenseal, an antibacterial noted for healing mucous membranes, also may be helpful. Hot ginger tea increases perspiration, cleansing the body, which can help reduce the intensity of a cold.

These treatments help with the symptoms, but you still suffer at least a day or two. The only truly effective treatment for a cold is to avoid one. American ginseng and astragalus supplements strengthen the immune system and can be taken during cold season to help defend against infection (astragalus should not be taken if you have a fever). The vitamin C-zinc-Echinacea combination also can prevent a cold if taken daily.

Don't forget about the cheapest methods of all for staying healthy: relaxation and plenty of rest.

Here To Stay

Influenza, better known as the flu, also is a viral infection of the respiratory tract. The flu is very contagious and is spread by contact with an infected person--or their germs. The acute illness generally runs its course in three to four days, but weakness and fatigue can persist for up to three weeks. That can put a major damper on your professional life, social life and any other part of your life that requires movement or thought.

Compared with viruses that cause the common cold, the flu virus often causes more severe illness. These viruses are responsible for epidemics of respiratory illness that happen each winter and often are associated with increased hospitalization and death. Influenza averages 20,000 fatalities nationwide each year. Most of these deaths are people with chronic illness or the elderly who develop serious secondary infections.

Conventional treatments for the flu are similar to the common cold. While zinc, vitamin C and garlic help stimulate the immune system, the best answer for the flu hassle may be the homeopathic route.

Oscillococcinum (Oscillo) is a popular homeopathic flu remedy. Supported by published research and used for more than 65 years, oscillo provides temporary relief from flu symptoms such as fever, chills, body aches and pains. It also is credited with shortening the duration of flu illness. The recommended dose is one .04-oz. tube of microcapsules taken every six hours.

Eupatorium is helpful for severe aching--deep in the bones--that makes you feel sore all over, while Gelsemium is an effective treatment for the fatigue, aches and chills.

Influenza can be prevented in several different manners. Good hygiene and scrupulous washing of one's hands can help to prevent many of the infections that could occur. Another major way to prevent being infected--or lessen the severity if you are infected--by the influenza virus is to receive a flu shot. As with the common cold, American ginseng, astragalus and Echinacea can strengthen the immune system and may help your body fight off infection.

In the United States, adults average two to four colds per year, while children average six to eight colds per year. Science never will eliminate the common cold or influenza, but we can coexist peacefully if we arm our bodies with the right defenses.