Flu Diagnosis and Treatment »

Alternative Treatment for Flu

A number of alternative treatments are available for treating flu:

DHEA is an adrenal hormone that has shown antiviral and immune-boosting benefits. The role of DHEA in regulating the immune response has been shown to include the enhanced secretion of interferon-gamma, which is an interfering protein that neutralizes viruses. The decline in DHEA levels is closely tied to immunosenescence. DHEA enhances the immune response and helps us fight infection; several studies have confirmed its usefulness in combating bacterial, parasitic, and viral infections, including HIV.

Melatonin is a pineal hormone that has immune enhancing benefits. Melatonin enhances the production of key immune components, such as natural killer cells, IL-2, IL-4, IL-10, and gamma-interferon.

Sambucol is a standardized extract from black elderberry. Studies have shown that Sambucol has antiviral properties against 10 different strains of the influenza virus. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized study, Sambucol reduced the duration of flu symptoms to 3-4 days therefore it's a wonderful alternative treatment for flu.

Lactoferrin is a subfraction of whey with well-documented antiviral, antimicrobial, anticancer and immune modulating/enhancing effects. Lactoferrin is concentrated in oral cavities where it will come in direct contact with pathogens (i.e., viruses, bacteria, etc.) and kill or greatly suppress them through a variety of different mechanisms. Lactoferrin may stimulate macrophages, which in turn may help to induce cell-mediated immunity.

Echinacea is known for its ability to stimulate the body's immune system, helping it to ward off infections and other diseases. Study results indicate that Echinacea can increase natural killer cells and even protect the integrity of these cells in animals of advanced age by augmenting their cytolytic function. Echinacea is also effective in reducing the duration and severity of symptoms of common cold, cough, bronchitis, and upper respiratory infections.

Green tea has become popular for the prevention and treatment of a wide range of diseases. Green tea has demonstrated the ability to inhibit bacteria and viruses and has shown to have a protective effect on immune function. Studies indicate that green tea provided significant protection from adverse changes in immune functions in mice, when exposed to carcinogens.

Garlic has been valued for centuries for its medicinal properties. Research has shown that garlic, specifically its active component allicin, has a wide spectrum of antifungal, antibacterial, and antiviral action. It also has exerting beneficial effects on the immune system by increasing natural killer cells and killer activities of spleen cells.

Curcumin is a potent antioxidant extract from the spice turmeric that has a wide range of health benefits with specific antiviral effects. Studies suggest that curcumin may contribute to antiviral activity by inhibiting HIV-1 integrase. It may also suppress IL-12 production in macrophages, which suggests a possible therapeutic use of curcumin in Th1-mediated immune diseases.

Protein increases immune function by increasing glutathione levels. Low glutathione levels are usually associated with diminished immune function.

Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) is a white, crystalline, water-soluble substance found in citrus fruits and green vegetables. Vitamin C may help to improve immune function and relieve cold and flu symptoms. Researchers have noticed that high doses of vitamin C decreases cold and flu symptoms by 85% as compared to those who only take pain relievers and decongestants for getting relief from flu.

Hydrogen Peroxide: a possible flu treatment...?