Flu Prevention

It's a plant called “Devil's Dung” and some researchers are saying it may have flu fighting properties.  But what other types of preventative measures are out there to help keep you from getting sick this flu season?

A report from the Journal of Natural Products says a foul smelling plant commonly called; “Devil's Dung” has natural antiviral properties. 

Researchers say the plant was used in 1918 to fight the Spanish flu pandemic and may serve as a promising lead for new developments against the H1N1 flu. 

But at Open Harvest where they carry the product, they say people buy it to supplement onions, leaks, or garlic while cooking.

“I don't think its offered very commonly in the supplement aisle because it needs to be cooked to get some of the benefits from it i believe they cook with it in iranian foods and indian foods it has an onion like flavor,” says Melissa Dowty.

At Open Harvest they promote eating a well balanced wholesome diet but say there is more you can do.

It's good to include probiotics, which are healthy organisms you find in yogurt, fish oils and wellness formulas help promote a healthy immune system. 

Once you're feeling under the weather try elder-berry, garlic, oregano, eucalyptus and or vitamin C.

“A lot of times just having a well-rounded multi-vitamin can be helpful because its usually when our body is deficient in certain things that we cant fight off things like we could if we were feeling healthy,” says Dowty.

At open harvest they said it's always busy around flu season with people getting stocked up on their vitamins but taking a pro active approach could be the medicine you need.

Again, none of the supplements and herbal remedies have been proven to treat the flu or H1N! but simply are preventative measures you can take to help keep a healthy immune system.   Some of these things may cause side effects for some people, you should check with your doctor before you start any new regimen.

For more on vitamins and supplements go to www.openharvest.com