Flu & Cold immunity, herbs, homeopathy, and flower essences

Many clients have asked me for strategies, herbal, flower essences, homeopathic remedies during the global pandemic. This post includes:

Please note that I am not a medical doctor and that the information in this post is not a substitute for medical care. The CDC is the best resource for official information for CoVid-19.

• Top Ten Immunity-Building Strategies

• Herbal Remedies

• Managing Fever

• Replacing Electrolytes

• Homeopathic Remedies

• Flower Essences

• Flu Protocol

• Fire Cider Recipe

TOP TEN IMMUNE BUILDING STRATEGIES

When your system is in balance, then you should be able to manage whatever comes your way. At the end of the day, CoVid-19 is still a flu, albeit a particularly nasty one, and should be treated with all the tried and true approaches that have worked for eons.

In holistic medicine we look at maintaining a strong, balanced environment so the body can naturally resist pathogens. CoVid-19 is “cold and damp” specifically, “turbid damp,” so it will be particularly important to maintain your core warmth and to keep your periphery open (pores, bowels and making sure that everything is moving as it should be). 

Our bodies know how to heal, antibodies are good to have. We just want to make sure that we are supporting our body and also that it doesn’t get stuck in any of the stages of healing.

Some supplements may interact with certain medications or are inappropriate for some people, check with your healthcare provider.

1. Black elderberry (Sambucus nigra)* This is one of the stars of the show. Elderberry is one of the most scientifically studied herbs, proven to decrease length, severity and duration of flu by 2/3s. Elderberry can be used prophylactically. 

To protect against flu, take 3-4 drops for potential or actual exposure to the virus. For example, I took a few drops before I braved the grocery store (using all the appropriate precautions) and then I took a few drops when I came home, and then another dose again before bed. 

Tincture form is best.

Elderberry is one of the remedies that I gave to my parents.

I would only use Elderberry preventatively and in first stage if CoVid-19 is suspected, as elderberry is cooling and will not be effective in the later stages. (A regular flu protocol would be Elderberry until better, up to 5-6 times per day in micro-doses of 4-5 drops).

It is generally considered safe in small doses (3-4 drops), much like blueberry juice. (I’ve only seen one negative reaction due to excessive-usage over too long a period of time). 

I generally don’t advise daily dosing, however, I make an exception for CoVid-19, particularly for those who are exposed on a daily basis. I would, however, still try to cycle it out periodically and stop taking it once the cold/flu season is over. 

2. Supplements - As with all supplements, they should be cycled in and out, taking a day off here and there and switching up brands. 

·       Vitamin C – natural sources are many fruits/vegetables, rose hips, pine needles, citrus (especially the pith). I made a white pine needle/rose hip tincture for my parents. 

The upper limit for supplemental vitamin C is 2,000 mg. 

Supplemental daily doses typically range between 250 and 1,000 mg. This strengthens the epithelial layer which is the first layer of defense. 

·       Zinc (in pumpkin seeds and other foods) 15-30 mg per day. Please note, zinc doses above 30 mg used long-term, may deplete copper and iron levels. 

·       Vitamin D - 1,000-5,000 IU daily is sufficient for most people (real sunshine is best). I know some folks taking 5,000 to 10,000 IU a day. D is necessary for immune competence in the upper respiratory tract and generally increases immunity. There haven’t been a lot of studies on the safety of D. . 

·       Mushrooms - Cordyceps, Turkey Tail, Chaga, and Reishi have been scientifically proven to help with immunity. I gave a Reishi tincture for my parents for them to take daily. Reishi in particular helps to protect the lungs. 

·       Astragalus – this is a darling of Chinese medicine and a generally safe immune-boosting tonic. It protects our surface (the wei qi) from the “Five Devils” that could enter us, including disease. Rudolf Steiner talked about how astragalus roots “Contain a shadow of the human ego organization forces” and that, when the ego organization is strengthened, it can pull the astral body out of its disease-causing tendency. 

·       Fire Cider - contains natural antiviral, antibacterial and immune-boosting roots and herbs, also quite warming. Easy to make, recipe below. 

3.     Stay Hydrated

4.     Hug a tree or two. Studies show that spending time in nature boosts immunity and mood. 

5.     Sing- Scientists found concentrations of immunoglobin A – proteins in the immune system, which function as antibodies – and hydrocortisone, an anti-stress hormone, raised significantly while singing.

6.     Keep your body moving. Take walks, dance, chop wood, carry water. Any type of steady, rhythmic movement is good, especially if you break a sweat. All the better if it brings you pleasure as well. Exercise warms the core, moves the blood and lymph and produces endorphins to help keep our mood level up and boost our immunity.

7.     Eat easily-digested, warm, nutrient-rich foods and add warming spices to them. 

Avoid the liver-congesting substances of caffeine, alcohol, and fried and fatty food. 

Avoid cold foods such as ice cream and raw foods. Limit green salads (too cooling for this time of year).

8     Watch the sugar. Sugar decreases immunity by 50% for hours and even days.

9.     Reach out. It is essential that we are connected to one another. As a culture, we have become so overly focused on independence, but it is interdependence that will see us through this time and into the future. 

10.     Watch your mind. This probably should have been number one. All disease begins in the etheric body with a thought and then emotion before it becomes manifest in the body as disease. It is the most important to choose love over fear right now and to surrender to the transformative process that we are all in as humans. More on how to do this below. 

* You may have heard some debate as to whether or not we should be dosing up on immune-boosting agents found in certain supplements, with some people raising the concern that such substances could trigger a “cytokine storm.” (A cytokine storm results in an increase of proteins that regulate the immune system, and causes the immune system to flare out of control.)

However, researchers and experts agree that these immune-boosting agents are not strong enough to cause this type of reaction in the average, asymptomatic person. Instead, they may help protect against the more serious complications that can result from a virus, such as CoVid-19. As always, consult with your own practitioner to determine which supplements (and dosages) will be appropriate for you.

REMEDIES

CoVid-19 Note: Dry respiratory mucosa may be the single biggest challenge. Keeping tissues moist through the use of moistening demulcents, humidifying the air, and drinking plenty of water, is our most important line of defense. The warming, diaphoretic herbs should be avoided if acute dryness is present (dry cough, shortness of breath, dry tongue, dry lips). 

HERBAL REMEDIES

Black elderberry (Sambucus nigra) or Black Elderflower Use the berry tincture for general immune building and prevention, use the flower tincture or tea for help with fever. 

Boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum) was a top performer during the Spanish Flu Epidemic in 1918-1920. Extremely bitter taste helps with bone-aching chills of certain viruses. It is specific for when there is a splitting headache right before sickness and any type of sickness where there is achey-ness in the bones.  Use in tincture form, small doses of 2-4 drops.

Poke Root salve or Plantain salve I’ve been hearing about a lot of stuck lymph causing problems. Either of these salves can be applied topically to lymph glands along the sides or back of the neck to help increase flow. A surprisingly long list of symptoms are derived from stuck lymph. 

Lomatium root (Lomatiun dissectum) Antiviral, antibacterial, and antiseptic, this herb was used during the 1918 flu pandemic. It is usually found in tincture form. (Rabbit Tobacco can be substituted here and Angelica could also be considered).

Elecampane (Inula helenium) for lung congestion. It is antimicrobial, has a strong pungent and bitter taste, and noticeably improves lung function and relieves congestion. 

Marshmallow  (Althaea officinalis) Soothing and moistening, a favorite for dry irritated throats and coughs. I often use it on it’s own as a soothing tea or else in tincture form. Very mild.

Lobelia (Lobelia inflata) can be taken as a tincture in single drop dosages (increasing slowly as needed) to stop spasmodic coughs. Extremely potent. Taken in excess lobelia may induce vomiting.

Unproductive Cough Herbs Include: Mullein (Verbascum Thapsus), Yerba Mansa (Anemopsis californica), Grindelia (Grindelia), Pluerisy Root (Asclepias tuberosa), Marshmallow (Althaea officinalis), Usnea (Usness), Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), Elecampane (Inula helenium), Ginger (Zingiber officinale), Osha root (Ligusticum porteri), Horehound (M. vulgare and M. peregrinum), Garlic (Allium sativum), Onion (Allium cepa), Antimonium tart 30c or Spongia tosta 30c homeopathically (as well as Chestal Honey homeopathic cough syrup, see below).

Moistening expectorants for dry lung, dry cough Marshmallow, Mullein, Chickweed, Violet, Licorice

Relaxing cough remedies Cherry bark, Mullein, Pleurisy root, Lobelia

Fresh Garlic: Garlic is antiviral but must be eaten fresh rather than cooked to keep its volatile oil properties intact. You can eat fresh garlic in olive oil, peanut butter or with honey added.

Fresh Ginger: Use for signs of coldness and dampness such as shivering or a thickly coated tongue. Many different complaints during an upper respiratory system infection can be treated with ginger. Ginger can warm you up from the inside, which is helpful for the onset of a cold or flu when you feel chilled and are shivering. 

Steep an inch of sliced ginger root in very hot water 20 minutes covered and drink warm.

MANAGING A FEVER

Fever is a powerful defense mechanism against infection, increasing the body’s metabolism to allow for urgent manufacture of immune cells and antibodies, increased elimination of waste products, and increased circulation to surface defenses.

Fever should be monitored but in most cases is a normal healthy response to infection. 

Suppressing fever with over-the-counter medications runs counter to the body’s healing immune response. This practice has been shown to prolong recovery from illness and to make sick folks more contagious. 

Fever: Yarrow, Catnip, Elderflower, and Lemon Balm are also good here. 

TO REPLACE ELECTROLYTES

Cell Salts 3-5 doses/day (this is a staple in our home, we use Bioplasma, made by Hyland)

Make your own “Gatorade” - Water with honey, good quality salt (pink or grey), and fresh lemon juice (citrus = potassium) you can also add 4-5 cell salts.

Electrolyte powders or a healthy version of a sports drink (we like Nooma, Aspire, or Roar)

Pedialyte and its generic forms

Coconut water can also help

Many more herbs and therapies are possible, depending on presentation. This should be enough to get most people started. Remember that none of these recommendations are intended to replace professional medical care.

For every recommended herb, there are many others with similar medicinal actions. Don’t panic if you can’t source these herbs. Most of what you need is likely in your spice rack right now. 

HOMEOPATHIC REMEDIES

If you are unfamiliar with homeopathy or how homeopathic remedies work, consult your practitioner.

Aconite 30c is for when there is fear and even panic. This is a good one to take when you feel afraid that you might be getting sick and start to manifest symptoms. A few of the clients who had effective results with Aconite had no awareness of their underlying fear, while others have had outright panic attacks for which it was also effective. I took aconite the other day after a troubling trip to the grocery store. I started to get a headache and worried that I was going to give my parents the virus with the groceries that I was delivering. One dose instantly healed and I completely forgot that I even thought I had a problem. This should only be used as needed but it is one of the best defenses because it stops the disease from taking hold and going any further. Again, has to be taken right away when symptoms first come on or at any time for symptoms as a result of fear/panic, especially when there is a fear of dying.  

Arsenicum 30c can be used for when people feel like the world is toxic and they are not safe. The personality that will respond best to this remedy tends a little toward anxiety and fear, maybe some OCD or germaphobia to begin with and tends to feel chilly and exhausted. Disease starts in the etheric body and then becomes physically manifested, so Ars alb 30c can work by interrupting the fearful and anxious thoughts that lead to the manifestation of the symptoms. In that way, it can be considered prophylactic in the right personality type. This is not something that can be taken daily, it is only to be used when there is a slight symptom or extreme fear or anxiety about getting sick. 

Gelsemium 30c is for flu-like symptoms. It’s been working for a lot of confirmed cases and it should. Tough to find right now. For some people, writing the remedy on a piece of paper and tucking into a bra or taping onto the chest with a bandaid can work like taking a dose since it is energetic medicine, the body can receive the message this way. Doesn’t work for everyone, but in a surprisingly large number of cases, it’s effective.  

Occilococcinum is another specific for flu-like symptoms. This one needs to be taken immediately at the itty bitty littlest symptom in order for it to be effective. 

Other remedies that I would try are the usual homeopathic flu remedies that any google search will elicit many of which are combined in Cold Calm, made by Boiron. 

Chestal Honey Cough syrup is a good product to have on hand. I have found it to be effective in 85% of cough issues. It contains all of the top homeopathic remedies for coughing. It should be held in the mouth for 15-20 seconds before swallowing for maximum efficacy. 

If you are unfamiliar with how to use homeopathic remedies, now is probably not the time to experiment. You can google a homeopathic flu flow chart to understand what the different remedies are and how they can be employed, but be sure to consult with an expert. 

 
FLOWER ESSENCES

Holly – Quite a few healers got a “download” on the pandemic for this one. Holly is for feelings of anger/fear toward others or when you feel like others/the world isn’t safe. Here’s what Patricia Kaminsky from the Flower Essence Society has to say about Holly:

“The Holly speaks to the fierce capacity of the human soul to bring inner light into the defended darkness of human emotions… it stands in the depths of winter, impervious to cold and darkness with its somber evergreen color.”

Holly brings hope and fosters good will, hence it’s symbolism at Christmastime. Holly flower essence ends up in a lot of formulas. It generally opens people up and calms them down. 

Star of Bethlehem – Everyone is testing for this one right now. So far it has gone into every formula that I’ve shipped out. Star of Bethlehem is for integration of trauma and understanding of bigger spiritual context for suffering. It can help with digestive issues associated with fear and anxiety, in general “digesting” what is happening. It also helps people to stay in the bodies and to process their experience. 

Crowea – This is an Australian flower essence that helps with fear and anxiety and worry.  90% of folks are testing for this one right now. 

Fringed Violet – Is another Australian flower essence that can help strengthen the auric field. It is testing in clients who are very sensitive and who are picking up on the experience of humanity right now. 

Sturt Desert Pea – Is my top grieving remedy. It is the premier heart chakra opener which is the area that this disease is activating for everyone. 

Gentian – Restores hope, something we could all use. 

Walnut – Good for transition and major life changes, helps us to let go without freaking out.

Wild Oat – Helps us to tune into the universe’s plan, helps to orient our soul so we can figure out what we’re supposed to be doing, giving us a sense of purpose. Also helps with transition.

Grey Spider Orchid – This Australian flower looks like Edvard Munch’s The Scream. It helps with fear and terror which can cause us to shut down or to block our experience. 

Any of these remedies can be used directly out of the dropper bottle, as needed. I would start with two doses of two drops twice a day and then see if more is needed. 

Give me a call or text if you want me to do a custom blend to help you with whatever issues are surfacing uniquely for you right now. I can also ship or drop off any of the remedies mentioned as needed. 

FLU PROTOCOL

This is what I do for my family.

1.     At the very first sign of any itty bitty inkling of anything, even if it’s just a thought or fear about maybe starting feel sick, I would take Aconite 30c. 

2.     Then I would wait 20 minutes, up to an hour and then take Ocillococcinum, as directed (Cold Calm can be used instead, also as directed on product label)

3.     Then take 3-4 drops of Elderberry followed a few minutes later by 2-3 drops of Boneset

4.     Get some heat – soak feet in hot water, or hot shower, hot ginger tea, bundle up.

5.     Wait another 15 minutes and then take a shot of fire cider. 

6.     If there is no improvement after 2 hours, I would try one dose of Arsenicum alb 30c. 

7.     If there are still symptoms, I would keep the Elderberry and Boneset going, 4-5x/day with frequent shots of Fire Cider. 

8.     If there are stronger symptoms, I would also take Gelsemium 30c.

9.     If the glands are feeling swollen or painful, use Poke or Plantain salve along the neck in a downward motion from the earlobe to the base of the neck. This can be done multiple times per day. 

10.  Obviously, warmth, rest, hydration, etc. 

Fire cider (recipe below) can also be taken multiple times per day. I’ve been known to take it every ten minutes to stop a cold from coming on. It is basically salad dressing, so it’s quite safe and usually tastes good when your body needs it.

The only thing to remember with Fire Cider is that the intense flavor will cancel out the signals from the more subtle homeopathic and herbal remedies, so be sure to take any other remedy at least 15 minutes away from fire cider. 

Beyond the above, it becomes very personalized in terms of how the disease is processed by each person. Call or text me if you want any support or ideas on what you could try. 

FIRE CIDER RECIPE

Hot, pungent, sour, and sweet, fire cider is certainly not for the faint of heart. Yet this fiery concoction has been revered for generations as a simple and effective remedy to relieve sinus congestion, ward off colds and flus, aid digestion, and increase circulation. 

Take a teaspoonful at the very first sign of a cold and keep taking it hourly until symptoms disappear. 

Ingredients

1/2 cup peeled and diced horseradish 
1/2 cup peeled and diced onion
1/4 cup peeled and diced ginger
1/4 cup peeled and diced turmeric 

10-12 large cloves organic garlic, peeled and crushed or chopped

2 organic cayenne or jalapeno peppers, chopped (dried ok, cayenne best)

Zest and juice from 1 organic lemon

1/4 tsp organic cayenne powder

2 to 3 cups raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar (at least 5% acidity) to fill and cover

Raw, local honey to taste

Directions

•       Prepare all of your roots, fruits, and herbs and place them in a quart-sized jar. If you've never grated fresh horseradish, be prepared for a powerful sinus opening experience! 

•        Cap the jar, using a piece of natural parchment paper under the lid to keep the vinegar from touching the metal, otherwise a plastic lid works well and won’t corrode, if you have one. 

•        Shake well. [it will be potent right away, so you can use it if you need it, but will become more potent the longer it sits].

•        Store in a dark, cool place for six weeks and try to shake daily (or as often as you remember).

•        After six weeks, use cheesecloth to strain out the pulp, pouring the flavored vinegar into a clean jar. Be sure to squeeze as much of the liquidy-goodness as you can from the pulp while straining. 

•       Add 1/4 cup of honey and stir until incorporated. Taste your cider and add honey until you reach the desired sweetness.

 Enjoy. Makes a great gift and can also be used for salad dressings or added to recipes.