The Power of Prevention and Early Action Against Colds and Flus
With cold and flu season looming, it’s essential to fortify your immune system. Whether you're traveling, attending gatherings, or simply preparing for cooler months, prevention is key. Taking the right herbs and supplements at the onset of symptoms—or even preventatively—can make a significant difference in your body’s ability to fend off illness.
I can’t remember who I heard it from first, but it has always stuck with me. We don’t actually have a cold and flu season so much as we have a candy season (Halloween) followed by a eat, drink and be merry season (Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s.) Not to mention, far less sunlight, vitamin D and colder weather.
In the wisdom traditions, entering into the winter months is a time of deep nourishment, slowing down and preserving resources. While I love having certain supplements on hand to keep the germs at bay, I want to remind my readers that it is crucial to take care of our bodies through nourishment and moderation.
Strengthen Your Immune System with TCM Herbs
In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), herbs are used both to strengthen the immune system and to target pathogens at the first sign of infection. Formulas like Health Concerns Cold Away and Health Concerns Isatis Gold are designed specifically for these purposes. I keep these stocked in my office during winter and for good reason.
Health Concerns Cold Away combines a blend of TCM herbs traditionally used to dispel wind-cold and wind-heat, two types of pathogens that can trigger colds and flus. Ingredients like ginger and forsythia help to clear the exterior, prevent deeper invasion, and alleviate symptoms like sore throat, chills, and fever.
Health Concerns Isatis Gold focuses on clearing heat and detoxifying the body. It’s particularly useful when exposed to germs in crowded environments or for those feeling run down. Isatis root and lonicera flower in this formula are prized for their antiviral and antibacterial properties.
Taking these herbs as soon as you feel that first scratchy throat or stuffy nose can prevent the virus from taking hold. But the best approach is starting them preventatively when you know you’ll be around people or in places where your immune system may be challenged.
Other formulas such as Yu Ping Feng San, Yin Xiao San and Gui Zhi Tang are popular for treating wind-cold invasion, particularly when there are symptoms like chills, mild fever, nasal congestion and sweating. If you are experiencing any symptoms, herbs are highly indicated for subduing and eliminating these pathogens. Always consult your TCM provider to find out which formula is best for you.
Stock Up on Single Herbs and Supplements
In addition to TCM formulas, there are several other potent herbs and supplements that can further support your immune system. I like to have these on hand in my medicine cabinet for the immediate support when I am feeling the onset of something funky. Here are my go to’s, which can be purchased on my online dispensary account here, at 10% off.
Camu Camu Vitamin C: This tropical fruit is one of the most potent natural sources of vitamin C, an antioxidant essential for immune function. It helps reduce the severity and duration of colds when taken at the first sign of symptoms.
Oregano Oil: Known for its antiviral and antibacterial properties, oregano oil can be a powerful ally against respiratory infections. It has compounds like carvacrol and thymol, which fight pathogens and support the respiratory system.
Quercetin: This plant flavonoid has immune-boosting and anti-inflammatory properties. Quercetin helps the body combat oxidative stress and can inhibit viruses from replicating in the body.
NAC (N-Acetyl Cysteine): NAC is a precursor to glutathione, a powerful antioxidant that supports lung health and boosts the immune response. It’s particularly helpful in thinning mucus and supporting respiratory function, making it ideal for cold and flu season.
Olive Leaf: Olive leaf extract is renowned for its antiviral and antimicrobial properties. It boosts the immune system and helps prevent pathogens from spreading throughout the body.
Vitamin D3 plays a critical role in immune function and has been shown to help prevent colds and flus by enhancing the body’s ability to fight off infections. It stimulates the production of antimicrobial peptides in the respiratory tract, which can reduce the risk of upper respiratory infections. Studies have shown that people with adequate D3 levels are less likely to catch colds and flus, especially during the winter months when natural sunlight exposure, a key source of D3 is limited.
Power Mushrooms Health Concerns: Power Mushrooms is a combination of four mushrooms known to have immune system regulating functions. This potent blend supports a strong immune system and is useful for prolonged colds and flu’s as well as a tonic for chemo support and radiation.
Adding just one of these to your medicine cabinet is an effective way of staying ahead of the curve in cold and flu season!
Take Action Early, Prevention is Key!
Keeping your immune system strong isn't just about reacting to symptoms—it's about building resilience before illness strikes. Here are some situations where you should consider taking herbs and supplements preventatively:
Before and during travel: Airports, train stations, and airplanes are notorious for spreading germs. Stock up on TCM formulas and immune-boosting herbs before you leave.
At large gatherings: Whether it’s a family reunion, holiday party, or concert, close contact with others increases your risk of exposure to colds and flu viruses.
When feeling run down: If you’re overworked, stressed, or haven’t been sleeping well, your immune system may already be compromised. This is the perfect time to support your body with herbs.
Stock Up for the Season
Don’t wait until you’re already sick to think about your immune system. Now is the time to prepare and stock your medicine cabinet with herbs and supplements that will give you the upper hand. At the first sign of feeling run down or experiencing a sore throat, stuffy nose, or chills, take action!
Whether it’s TCM formulas like Health Concerns Cold Away and Isatis Gold or supplements like camu camu, oregano oil, and NAC, these remedies can prevent a full-blown illness and help you recover faster if you do catch something.
Take control of your health this season—fortify your immune system, stay prepared, and beat colds and flus before they start. For a comprehensive list of wellness supplements, head over to my online dispensary. Order now.
