A Natural Antibiotic for Colds and Flu's

 

Do you know about a herb that has been shown to have natural antibiotic effects to colds and flu’s?

There seems to have been a whole spate of colds and flu’s over the winter but almost everyone one I know has had something or another and for some it seems they have suffered for weeks.

Doctors are less likely to prescribe antibiotics for colds and flu’s. The flu jab will only give limited protection because it will target only a small number of bacterial species and there is still limited to no protection against viruses. So what’s the alternative? Suffer it out or is there something else? Yes there is! A natural antibiotic even the scientists are excited about. It’s called Pelargonium, a south African herb known as umckaloabo. It has been used by some south African tribes for thousands of years and now studies have shown that Pelargonium sidoides can be effective in treating throat and chest infections, sinusitis as well as symptoms of colds and flu’s. The Cochrane Database also concluded the positive effects of Pelargonium in July 2008.

The herb is effective against bacteria and viruses by preventing them attaching to the cell wall and multiplying. This remarkable herb also helps the body expel mucus, balances the immune system and helps speed up the rate of recovery.

In Europe it is often used to treat upper respiratory tract infections – tonsillitis, bronchitis and has been found particularly helpful to those who have not responded well to antibiotics.

As with any colds and flu’s it is recommended to start treatment as soon as you see the signs. Pelargonium can also be used as a preventative or when in contact with other flu sufferers.

You will be able to find this herb at most health food stores or visit your local herbalist. I recommend you keep it in your first aid cupboard ready for when you may need it next.

Rumana Zahn is a Naturopath and Medical Herbalist and runs clinics in Newcastle (within a GPs practice), Yarm. She is a leader within the field of Natural Medicine, writes and speaks extensively on the subject. She can be contacted on 0845 680 1418 or www.rumanahealth.com

Rumana is a member of the British Register of Complementary Practitioners.

 

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