Influenza is a highly contagious viral infection that affects the respiratory passages causing symptoms such as fever, severe aching, running nose, and cough.
The National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health classifies CAM therapies as whole medical systems, manipulative and body-based practices, mind-body medicine, energy medicine, and biologically based practices. CAM includes many different therapies, such the consumption of foods and spices that are easily available yet aren’t widely or popularly known to be medicinal.
According to the Mayo Clinic, 40% of people report using CAM treatments and actually prefer them to prescription medications. Here are 4 foods and spices that patients might already have in their pantries that may have benefits and relieve some symptoms during this flu season:
1. American Ginseng
Ginseng works by improving the survival of the epithelial cells in the lungs that are affected by influenza and causing a reduction in the expression of genes that cause inflammation.
2. Echinacea
Many chemicals that contribute to boosting the immune system are located within the plant, such as flavonoids, inulin, polysaccharides, and vitamin C.
3. Elderberry (Sambucol)
Works by reducing swelling in the mucous membranes and relieves nasal congestion allowing the opening of the airways. Elderberry is also believed to display antiviral, anti-inflammatory, anti-influenza, and even anticancer effects.
4. Vitamin C
According to a study published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, patients receiving vitamin C experienced reduced symptoms of the influenza by 85% compared to those not taking the vitamin.