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Viruses are infectious microorganisms that replicate within the cells of an organism, and are capable of attacking virtually all life forms, single celled and multicellular alike. What’s more, they exist in various ecosystems, and can transfer genetic material and reproduce through natural selection. However, these organisms do not have a definite cell structure. These organisms can spread in several ways, either through blood sucking insects in animals, others through sneezing and coughing, or spread by fecal-oral means.
The worst part is that antibiotics may not be of much help, and vaccines are unreliable as some viruses can be evasive. But fortunately, antiviral herbs are essential in suppressing the microorganisms' development, not to mention that herbs pose fewer chances for side effects. Besides, most of these herbs can boost your immune system too, helping the body keep viral pathogens at bay. This is where herbs outweigh the antiviral drugs, as they don’t target a specific group of pathogens. This helps to prevent the evasive mutation of viruses that help the organisms become difficult to treat. Well, here are top ten antiviral herbs for dealing with a virus.
Echinacea is an all-time herb for its immune support and general health benefits. Phytochemicals in this herb are potent of reducing virus tumors and infections, with a compound Echinacea in this herb inhibiting virus and bacteria from entering healthy cells and significantly reducing any chances of infections.
Elderberry is a long renowned herb for its popularity among many cultures, thanks to its benefits in medicine. The herb can help fight herpes, influenza, and bacterial as well as viral infections.
Garlic, and some compounds found in the herb has been proven highly effective in killing numerous microorganisms that cause rare and common infections alike. Garlic is known for healing problems like pneumonia, tuberculosis, herpes and thrush. Besides, thanks to the antiviral properties, this herb is effective in treating eye infection as well as a natural remedy against ear infection.
Calendula flower petals have been essential for medicinal use from the 12th century. The herb is high in flavonoids, plant-based antioxidants for protecting cells from damage by radicals. Used when dry, the petals of this herb are also essential for fighting bacteria, viruses and inflammation. They also help on burns, infections, healing cuts, and wounds.
Cat’s claw roots and bark have been used in South America for years in treating problems like stomach ulcers, fevers, digestive complications and dysentery. The herb is also a remedy for arthritis and ulcers symptoms, as well as herpes.
Astragalus has been used in traditional Chinese medicine as an antiviral herb for hundreds of years. The herb was also mainly used for boosting the body’s immunity system, something that scientists have also approved, and suggest that the herb can also be used for cold and flu prevention.
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GINGER’S ABILITY TO enhance the body’s immune system has been recognized since time immemorial. The herb’s ability to heat the body helps prevent accumulation of toxins in the organs. Ginger is also known to cleanse the lymph system and the body’s sewage system.
Olive leaf is potent with antiviral properties; this herb is able of treating the common cold as well as other serious viruses like Candida symptoms, pneumonia, meningitis, gonorrhea, hepatitis B and tuberculosis. Moreover, it is essential for treating urinary tract infections, ear, dental and shingles.
Licorice has also been the go-to option for treatment of HIV, hepatitis C, and influenza.
Oregano oil is rich in carvacrol and thymol compounds, potent with antifungal and antibacterial properties. Carvacrol helps with viral infections, allergies, tumors and disease causing inflammation.