Introduction
The flu season can be a daunting time for many, as the microscopic bugs invade our bodies and wreak havoc on our immune system. While there are everyday preventive actions to reduce the spread of the flu, such as avoiding close contact with sick individuals, covering coughs and sneezes, and washing hands frequently, some people prefer additional natural allies to combat this impalpable threat. In this article, we will explore four flu-fighting friends that can provide an extra boost to our immune system.
Probiotics: Supporting Your Immune System
Probiotics, the live cultures known for their ability to ease digestive stress, have also shown promise in staving off colds. A 2012 research study compared two groups of college students suffering from colds. The group that took a probiotic supplement with Lactobacillus rhamnosus recovered two days earlier and experienced symptoms that were 34% less severe. Incorporating probiotics into your daily routine may provide an extra layer of defense against the flu.
Oscillococcinum: Shortening Flu Symptoms
Oscillococcinum is an easy-to-take, low-cost homeopathic medicine that has been proven effective in shortening both the severity and duration of flu symptoms. Clinical studies have shown promising results, with nearly 63% of patients experiencing “clear improvement” or “complete resolution” within 48 hours when taking Oscillococcinum within 24 hours of symptom onset. This natural remedy can be used even for children as young as 2 years old.
Chicken Soup: A Comforting and Healing Elixir
Chicken soup has long been regarded as a comforting remedy for various ailments, including the flu. Research published in the journal Chest suggests that chicken soup can slow down the movement of infection-fighting white blood cells. This allows these cells to spend more time in the areas of the body that need them most. Additionally, the steam from the soup helps open nasal passages, while the salty broth soothes a sore throat. So, next time you’re feeling under the weather, a bowl of chicken soup might just do the trick.
Zinc Lozenges: Boosting Your Immune System
Zinc is an essential mineral for the cells of the immune system. Taking zinc lozenges at the first sign of flu symptoms can help reduce the duration of the illness. A 2013 analysis of 18 trials published in the Cochrane Library found that ingesting a daily dose of 75 milligrams of zinc within 24 hours of symptom onset can be beneficial. It’s important to note that if you choose to use zinc as a preventive measure, it’s best to start taking it at the very first signs of flu and consult with your doctor if you have any concerns.
Conclusion
During flu season, it’s crucial to take care of yourself by getting enough sleep, eating a well-balanced diet, staying hydrated, exercising regularly, and managing stress levels. These habits help strengthen your immune system, making it more resilient against the flu and other illnesses. And if you do happen to catch the flu, remember to take precautions to prevent spreading it to others. By following these tips and incorporating natural allies like probiotics, Oscillococcinum, chicken soup, and zinc lozenges, you can give your immune system a fighting chance against the flu.
This article originally appeared on Alternative Medicine Magazine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are alternatives to medicine?
Alternative medicine is any treatment that isn’t considered medically necessary to treat disease. These include traditional Chinese medicine and homeopathy, chiropractic, acupuncture and herbal medicines, nutritional therapy, energy healing techniques, such as Reiki, and acupuncture.
Alternative medicine may also include practices that are not supported by scientific evidence but have been used with great success in clinical practice. You can use meditation, hypnosis and yoga to achieve this.
What is the distinction between holistic medicine, alternative medicine and holistic medicine?
Holistic medicine treats all aspects of the person: mind, body, soul, and spirit. It examines all aspects that affect a person’s overall health. These include the psychological, spiritual and environmental factors often overlooked in traditional medicine. Alternative medicine can be used to treat certain conditions like asthma, allergies, arthritis, or other medical issues.
Who uses alternative medicine instead of traditional medicine?
Alternative medicine can be used for many reasons.
- They are keen to avoid surgery and harmful drugs.
- They believe natural remedies work more effectively.
- They prefer non-invasive treatments.
- They want to spend less.
- They feel more at ease using natural products
- They desire more control over their healthcare decisions.
- They want to be responsible for their health.
- They want to live in a healthier environment.
- They seek less stress in daily life.
- They want more freedom when it comes to choosing their doctors or their healthcare plans.
- They want their kids to get a better education.
- They want healthy food for themselves and their family.
- They seek safe, effective medicines.
What is an alternative name for medicine?
Alternative medicine is an umbrella term used to describe any approach to healing that differs significantly from conventional medical practice. Although there are many forms of alternative medicine, most are based on the premise that health care should be rooted in natural substances and practices rather than chemical medicines.
Alternative medicine can include acupuncture and herbalism, naturopathy and osteopathic manipulation.
Alternative practitioners often claim that they have better outcomes for patients, with fewer side effects and lower costs. These claims can’t be supported scientifically, as mainstream medical authorities have mostly ignored the evidence-based advantages of alternative medicine.
What is the difference in alternative medicine and complementary medicine?
Alternative medicine refers only to treatment methods that are not recommended by mainstream doctors but have been proven to provide beneficial results for certain conditions. Homeopathy, acupuncture and aromatherapy are all examples. Complementary medicines refer to those therapies which complement conventional treatment; they may be used alongside conventional medicine. These include nutritional supplements like vitamins, minerals or herbs, amino acid, enzymes or probiotics.
Both forms of medicine may be used. However, most conventional doctors will not recommend them due either to insufficient evidence nor safety concerns.
The best way to integrate CAM into patient care is not a consensus among health care professionals.
Many CAM treatments are based off theories that have been around for thousands years. Clinical trials conducted over the past two decades have shown that some of these treatments might be effective.
As an example, several studies indicate that acupuncture may relieve pain. Similarly, preliminary data show that it may reduce nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy. Another study suggests that acupuncture can improve symptoms such as irritable intestinal syndrome, fibromyalgia chronic fatigue syndrome and multiple sclerosis.
Some CAM treatments may also have therapeutic potential for diseases such as HIV/AIDS, diabetes and asthma, heart disease, heart disease, hypertension or Alzheimer’s disease.
While there are still questions about the effectiveness of CAM in treating different ailments, most experts agree it is possible.
As a result, more and more people are turning to CAM practitioners for relief from common illnesses.
Despite growing popularity, many remain confused about the definition of “alternative” or complementary medicine.
Statistics
- category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
- In the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (en.wikipedia.org)
- According to a 2005 book by a US [116]Institute of Medicine panel, the number of RCTs focused on CAM has risen dramatically. (en.wikipedia.org)
- In 83% of the cases, the readers agreed. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
cam.cancer.gov
webmd.com
nccih.nih.gov
- Statistics on Complementary Health Approaches and Integrative Healthcare
- What’s in a Name for Complementary, Alternative or Integrative Health?
liebertpub.com
- Games for Health Journal – Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers
- The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine.
How To
What are the advances and drawbacks of holistic medicine?
Holistic medicine, a type of medical practice, emphasizes the importance and interdependence of mind, spirit, environment, social factors, and the healing process. It was developed during the late 19th century by Dr. Edward Bach (1886-1936), who published his first book, The Doctor’s Book of Mind Cure, in 1924. He used simple techniques, such as visualization, meditation, and even hypnosis. People with stress, anxiety, depression or pain experienced this treatment. This therapy can also help patients deal with their problems and improve their quality life.
Although holistic therapies have been around for a while, the lack of scientific evidence has made them less popular. Some studies do show that these therapies can be used to reduce chronic conditions like arthritis, cancer and heart disease.
Advances and shortcomings of holistic medicine are:
- We lack scientific evidence. Only a few well-designed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluate the benefits of holistic therapies. Positive results are the norm in most observational studies.
- It is cheaper than traditional medicine. Alternative medicines may be more affordable than traditional medicines, especially if the patient eats a healthy diet.
- Patients do not feel pressured into following the prescribed protocol.
- Many doctors will recommend complementary treatments, even if they are not prescribed.
- Holistic treatments often combine with conventional medicine. Acupuncture is often combined with medications or surgery.
- Alternative treatments are more effective than conventional medicine, according to many people.
- Alternative medicines are more natural than traditional drugs.
- Many patients also use complementary treatments to support their lifestyle changes. They not only want their health to be good, but they also want to have fun with their lives.
- Holistic treatment patients are often healthier.
- Older adults are increasingly turning to holistic treatments.
- It is important to conduct more research on complementary therapies.
- Studies have shown that the majority of people would rather try alternative treatments than see a doctor.
- Doctors must understand that not everyone will benefit from alternative treatments.
- Holistic treatments must be an integral part of culture and education.
- Holistic therapies may not be right for everyone.
- So that patients can make informed decisions, we must be able to communicate with them about the various therapies.
- Holistic treatments aren’t only for hippies.
- Certain diseases are not cured by holistic therapies.
- Sometimes holistic treatments can prove dangerous.
- Holistic therapies can be beneficial for certain conditions.
- Holistic treatments work.
- Holistic treatments are based off ancient wisdom.
- Holistic therapies are simple to learn.
- It is difficult to learn holistic treatments.
- It is difficult to learn holistic treatments.
- Holistic therapies are too expensive.
- Holistic treatments are expensive.
- Holistic treatments can be less expensive than conventional medicines.
- Holistic treatments tend to be more expensive that conventional medicine.
****
Holistic Medicine–A Brief History
Holistic medicine is a system of healing that focuses on treating the whole person instead of just their symptoms. It addresses all aspects, including the physical, emotional and mental, as well as cultural, social, occupational, environmental, and cultural factors. Prevention is more important than treatment and it focuses on preventing disease through diet, exercise and relaxation.
Bastyr University established the first holistic school of medicine in Seattle in 1972. Holistic medicine grew after Dr. Andrew Weil’s book “Spontaneous Healing” was published in 1996. Dr. David Williams, and Dr. Michael Murray founded the American Holistic Medical Association in 1997. Today there are hundreds of holistic medical schools all around the globe, including Bastyr University. Columbia College of Physicians & Surgeons. Maharishi Ayurveda Institute. Pacific School of Oriental Medicine. Traditional Chinese Medicine.
The World Health Organization designated holistic medicine as one the five top trends in healthcare in 2013. This trend integrates conventional care with complementary therapies like homeopathy, acupuncture or herbalism, massage, therapy, reiki, yoga and meditation. This integration is designed to deliver safe, effective, patient-centered healthcare while minimising side effects and costs.
Holistic medicine works because of the interconnectedness of our body, mind, and spirit. An imbalance in any of these components can lead to illness. Here are some examples:
Anxiety and stress can make you anxious, causing you to feel tense or out of balance. Cortisol is a hormone that causes inflammation in your body. You feel weak, tired, and sick as a result.
If your emotions run high, you may experience negative feelings and thoughts like fear, anger, grief, or sadness. These feelings can lead to stress in the brain. If untreated, these stress hormones can trigger adrenaline and cortisol production. Adrenaline boosts heart rate, blood pressure and breathing rate. Cortisol has a negative impact on your immune system and digestive tract. Both hormones can lead to fatigue, muscle tension headaches and dizziness, anxiety, depression, and other health issues.
A depressed spirit can lead to a loss of faith and hope. You might also experience low self-esteem, confidence, and lack of self-confidence. This can lead to poor eating habits, unhealthy relationships, and low energy. You feel happy, joyful, peaceful, and optimistic when your spirit is healthy.
Differentiation between alternative and allopathic medicine
Allopathic medicine is founded on science. Doctors use laboratory tests, x-rays, MRIs, CAT scans, and other technologies to diagnose patients. They may also prescribe medications or surgery if necessary. Allopathic doctors believe that they have a complete understanding of the human body and can treat any illnesses. Alternative medicine involves herbs, vitamins minerals, diet, exercise and spiritual healing. There is no one standard definition for alternative medicine. People call it natural or integrative medicine. Others refer to it as traditional medicine, naturopathic medicine, and CAM.
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This blog is a source of general information and discussion on health and related topics. Information and materials on this blog, on the website, or in any of the connected materials are not intended to replace or used as a substitute for the advice of a medical professional, diagnosis, or treatment. This blog does not represent the application of any nursing, medical or other health professional advice or diagnosis. We are unable to diagnose health conditions, offer second opinions or provide specific treatment recommendations via this blog or on our website.
If you or another person is suffering from a medical issue and you are concerned, consult your doctor or seek out other medical professional treatment as soon as possible. Do not disregard medical advice from a professional or delay seeking it due to information you seen on the blog or website or in any of the linked materials. If you’re experiencing an emergency medical situation, dial 911 or seek emergency medical assistance on the closest phone immediately.
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By: Dick Benson
Title: 4 Natural Allies to Fight the Flu
Sourced From: alternativemedicine.com/uncategorized/4-flu-fighting-friends/
Published Date: Tue, 31 Oct 2023 03:27:21 +0000
Frequently Asked Questions
What are alternatives to medicine?
Alternative medicine is any treatment that isn’t considered medically necessary to treat disease. These include traditional Chinese medicine and homeopathy, chiropractic, acupuncture and herbal medicines, nutritional therapy, energy healing techniques, such as Reiki, and acupuncture.
Alternative medicine may also include practices that are not supported by scientific evidence but have been used with great success in clinical practice. You can use meditation, hypnosis and yoga to achieve this.
What is the distinction between holistic medicine, alternative medicine and holistic medicine?
Holistic medicine treats all aspects of the person: mind, body, soul, and spirit. It examines all aspects that affect a person’s overall health. These include the psychological, spiritual and environmental factors often overlooked in traditional medicine. Alternative medicine can be used to treat certain conditions like asthma, allergies, arthritis, or other medical issues.
Who uses alternative medicine instead of traditional medicine?
Alternative medicine can be used for many reasons.
- They are keen to avoid surgery and harmful drugs.
- They believe natural remedies work more effectively.
- They prefer non-invasive treatments.
- They want to spend less.
- They feel more at ease using natural products
- They desire more control over their healthcare decisions.
- They want to be responsible for their health.
- They want to live in a healthier environment.
- They seek less stress in daily life.
- They want more freedom when it comes to choosing their doctors or their healthcare plans.
- They want their kids to get a better education.
- They want healthy food for themselves and their family.
- They seek safe, effective medicines.
What is an alternative name for medicine?
Alternative medicine is an umbrella term used to describe any approach to healing that differs significantly from conventional medical practice. Although there are many forms of alternative medicine, most are based on the premise that health care should be rooted in natural substances and practices rather than chemical medicines.
Alternative medicine can include acupuncture and herbalism, naturopathy and osteopathic manipulation.
Alternative practitioners often claim that they have better outcomes for patients, with fewer side effects and lower costs. These claims can’t be supported scientifically, as mainstream medical authorities have mostly ignored the evidence-based advantages of alternative medicine.
What is the difference in alternative medicine and complementary medicine?
Alternative medicine refers only to treatment methods that are not recommended by mainstream doctors but have been proven to provide beneficial results for certain conditions. Homeopathy, acupuncture and aromatherapy are all examples. Complementary medicines refer to those therapies which complement conventional treatment; they may be used alongside conventional medicine. These include nutritional supplements like vitamins, minerals or herbs, amino acid, enzymes or probiotics.
Both forms of medicine may be used. However, most conventional doctors will not recommend them due either to insufficient evidence nor safety concerns.
The best way to integrate CAM into patient care is not a consensus among health care professionals.
Many CAM treatments are based off theories that have been around for thousands years. Clinical trials conducted over the past two decades have shown that some of these treatments might be effective.
As an example, several studies indicate that acupuncture may relieve pain. Similarly, preliminary data show that it may reduce nausea and vomiting associated with chemotherapy. Another study suggests that acupuncture can improve symptoms such as irritable intestinal syndrome, fibromyalgia chronic fatigue syndrome and multiple sclerosis.
Some CAM treatments may also have therapeutic potential for diseases such as HIV/AIDS, diabetes and asthma, heart disease, heart disease, hypertension or Alzheimer’s disease.
While there are still questions about the effectiveness of CAM in treating different ailments, most experts agree it is possible.
As a result, more and more people are turning to CAM practitioners for relief from common illnesses.
Despite growing popularity, many remain confused about the definition of “alternative” or complementary medicine.
Statistics
- category.[111]Edzard Ernst characterized the evidence for many alternative techniques as weak, nonexistent, or negative and in 2011, published his estimate that about 7.4% were based on “sound evidence.” However, he believes that may be an overestimate. (en.wikipedia.org)
- According to the World Health Organization, 80% of people use herbal medicine worldwide. (webmd.com)
- In the 17% in which they disagreed, a third reader agreed with one of the initial readers to set a rating. (en.wikipedia.org)
- According to a 2005 book by a US [116]Institute of Medicine panel, the number of RCTs focused on CAM has risen dramatically. (en.wikipedia.org)
- In 83% of the cases, the readers agreed. (en.wikipedia.org)
External Links
cam.cancer.gov
webmd.com
nccih.nih.gov
- Statistics on Complementary Health Approaches and Integrative Healthcare
- What’s in a Name for Complementary, Alternative or Integrative Health?
liebertpub.com
- Games for Health Journal – Mary Ann Liebert, Inc., publishers
- The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine.
How To
What are the advances and drawbacks of holistic medicine?
Holistic medicine, a type of medical practice, emphasizes the importance and interdependence of mind, spirit, environment, social factors, and the healing process. It was developed during the late 19th century by Dr. Edward Bach (1886-1936), who published his first book, The Doctor’s Book of Mind Cure, in 1924. He used simple techniques, such as visualization, meditation, and even hypnosis. People with stress, anxiety, depression or pain experienced this treatment. This therapy can also help patients deal with their problems and improve their quality life.
Although holistic therapies have been around for a while, the lack of scientific evidence has made them less popular. Some studies do show that these therapies can be used to reduce chronic conditions like arthritis, cancer and heart disease.
Advances and shortcomings of holistic medicine are:
- We lack scientific evidence. Only a few well-designed randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluate the benefits of holistic therapies. Positive results are the norm in most observational studies.
- It is cheaper than traditional medicine. Alternative medicines may be more affordable than traditional medicines, especially if the patient eats a healthy diet.
- Patients do not feel pressured into following the prescribed protocol.
- Many doctors will recommend complementary treatments, even if they are not prescribed.
- Holistic treatments often combine with conventional medicine. Acupuncture is often combined with medications or surgery.
- Alternative treatments are more effective than conventional medicine, according to many people.
- Alternative medicines are more natural than traditional drugs.
- Many patients also use complementary treatments to support their lifestyle changes. They not only want their health to be good, but they also want to have fun with their lives.
- Holistic treatment patients are often healthier.
- Older adults are increasingly turning to holistic treatments.
- It is important to conduct more research on complementary therapies.
- Studies have shown that the majority of people would rather try alternative treatments than see a doctor.
- Doctors must understand that not everyone will benefit from alternative treatments.
- Holistic treatments must be an integral part of culture and education.
- Holistic therapies may not be right for everyone.
- So that patients can make informed decisions, we must be able to communicate with them about the various therapies.
- Holistic treatments aren’t only for hippies.
- Certain diseases are not cured by holistic therapies.
- Sometimes holistic treatments can prove dangerous.
- Holistic therapies can be beneficial for certain conditions.
- Holistic treatments work.
- Holistic treatments are based off ancient wisdom.
- Holistic therapies are simple to learn.
- It is difficult to learn holistic treatments.
- It is difficult to learn holistic treatments.
- Holistic therapies are too expensive.
- Holistic treatments are expensive.
- Holistic treatments can be less expensive than conventional medicines.
- Holistic treatments tend to be more expensive that conventional medicine.
****
Holistic Medicine–A Brief History
Holistic medicine is a system of healing that focuses on treating the whole person instead of just their symptoms. It addresses all aspects, including the physical, emotional and mental, as well as cultural, social, occupational, environmental, and cultural factors. Prevention is more important than treatment and it focuses on preventing disease through diet, exercise and relaxation.
Bastyr University established the first holistic school of medicine in Seattle in 1972. Holistic medicine grew after Dr. Andrew Weil’s book “Spontaneous Healing” was published in 1996. Dr. David Williams, and Dr. Michael Murray founded the American Holistic Medical Association in 1997. Today there are hundreds of holistic medical schools all around the globe, including Bastyr University. Columbia College of Physicians & Surgeons. Maharishi Ayurveda Institute. Pacific School of Oriental Medicine. Traditional Chinese Medicine.
The World Health Organization designated holistic medicine as one the five top trends in healthcare in 2013. This trend integrates conventional care with complementary therapies like homeopathy, acupuncture or herbalism, massage, therapy, reiki, yoga and meditation. This integration is designed to deliver safe, effective, patient-centered healthcare while minimising side effects and costs.
Holistic medicine works because of the interconnectedness of our body, mind, and spirit. An imbalance in any of these components can lead to illness. Here are some examples:
Anxiety and stress can make you anxious, causing you to feel tense or out of balance. Cortisol is a hormone that causes inflammation in your body. You feel weak, tired, and sick as a result.
If your emotions run high, you may experience negative feelings and thoughts like fear, anger, grief, or sadness. These feelings can lead to stress in the brain. If untreated, these stress hormones can trigger adrenaline and cortisol production. Adrenaline boosts heart rate, blood pressure and breathing rate. Cortisol has a negative impact on your immune system and digestive tract. Both hormones can lead to fatigue, muscle tension headaches and dizziness, anxiety, depression, and other health issues.
A depressed spirit can lead to a loss of faith and hope. You might also experience low self-esteem, confidence, and lack of self-confidence. This can lead to poor eating habits, unhealthy relationships, and low energy. You feel happy, joyful, peaceful, and optimistic when your spirit is healthy.
Differentiation between alternative and allopathic medicine
Allopathic medicine is founded on science. Doctors use laboratory tests, x-rays, MRIs, CAT scans, and other technologies to diagnose patients. They may also prescribe medications or surgery if necessary. Allopathic doctors believe that they have a complete understanding of the human body and can treat any illnesses. Alternative medicine involves herbs, vitamins minerals, diet, exercise and spiritual healing. There is no one standard definition for alternative medicine. People call it natural or integrative medicine. Others refer to it as traditional medicine, naturopathic medicine, and CAM.
