Modern day scientific studies have proven that Echinacea increases white blood cells supporting the immune system by its ability as an immunomodulator and its ability of direct antibacterial/antiviral activity. Which basically means it acts as an agent that modulates the immune response. It inhibits pro-inflammatory cytokines. Cytokines occur during oxidative stress, when the immune system becomes over whelmed by a cold or upper respiratory infection. Echinacea unloads its antioxidant properties to help during oxidative stress to “calm down” the response. It also acts by engulfing invasive microorganisms, bacteria, pathogens and other cellular debris. This immune response is known as “phagocytosis”. The herb also stimulates apoptosis also known as controlled cell death which can attack cancer cells.
Echinacea comes in many forms including tablets, liquid extracts, a dried herb, juice, and teas. There are concerns regarding the quality of Echinacea products on the market. Some products are mislabeled and can contain contaminates such as selenium, arsenic and lead. Use caution regarding where you purchase.
Echinacea is considered safe for short-term use. It is not completely understood the effects of long term use. However, it is suggested that in can lead to hepatotoxicity due to components in the flower. It is not recommended for expectant and breast feeding moms or those with autoimmune disorders. Those with allergies to other flowers can develop an allergic type reaction.
Drug Interactions
*Disclaimer- Please seek health advice from your provider before trying any of the above mentioned supplements. Only you and your provider understand your child’s health history. These supplements are not considered cures for any ailments
]]>
Having said that here is what we know and what We can DO to prepare in a calm-rational manner…
COVID-19 is a VIRUS and it can cause pneumonia. Pneumonia can be fatal for elderly and compromised individuals. Pneumonia is an infection that inflames the air sacs with fluid or purulent (pus) material in one or both lungs. For the most part, the body is capable of reversing the damage from inflammation and allowing the lungs to heal. However, inflammation can become too much that a “cytokine storm” can occur, which is the key mechanism for fatality. A cytokine storm is basically your immune system taking on more than it can handle.
The main symptoms of Covid-19 include some but is not limited to fever, cough and shortness of breath. If you have symptoms, call your physician or local health department and they will instruct you further. Do not leave your house unless you need urgent medical attention.
We cant control the media and we cant control this virus. What we can control is how we react and what we do to protect our family during this time to prevent and treat any virus.
People are out buying endless supplies of toilet paper and I am over here buying ALL the immune supplements and cold remedies.
We live in a highly developed, medically advanced country and we will get through this together. Stay home, stay calm, do your part and wash Yo hands!
Comment below what you use for colds and or/viral infections for your children?
*Disclaimer- Please seek health advice from your provider before trying any of the above mentioned supplements. Only you and your provider understand your child’s health history. These supplements are not considered cures for any ailments including influenza or Covid-19.
]]>