body: does nature have the answers to overcoming a virus?

There is no doubt that we are living through ever changing and challenging times. The twenty four hour stream of endless information can feel overwhelming and confusing. Whilst many of us are sat looking for solutions or waiting for the storm to pass, could it be time to turn to nature to try and find some answers? From foods that help to strengthen our immune system to antiviral supplements, there are things around that may help us and they might be more simple than we realise.

Garlic

From adding to your food to taking garlic capsules, it has long been known by many for its powerful antiviral properties. Loaded with a compound known as allicin, it has the potential to ward off infections from within when eaten on a regular basis. Allicin is a compound which is thought to fight viruses and boost immunity. Add it to your favourite dishes or take it in tablet form. It’s super cheap and will help to give your immune system a much needed boost. Cooking garlic destroys the allicin, so you'll need to use it raw to prevent or fight infections. 

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Oil of Oregano

Ok so I’m not going to lie, this stuff doesn’t taste the best initially but trust me its benefits are worth it. Research shows that oregano oil has antimicrobial, antiviral and antifungal properties. In addition compounds in oregano oil are also potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic, and cancer-suppressor agents. Oregano oil can be taken orally, diffused in steam and inhaled or diluted and applied to the skin for the treatment of acne, athlete's foot, canker sores, psoriasis, rosacea, varicose veins and warts. The oil is pretty strong so be careful when first taking it. Start off with adding a drop or two to water and taking it that way and then building up to a higher dose. Ensure that you read the guidance on the bottle before taking it.

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Ginger

Used in eastern medicine for hundreds of years, fresh ginger contains both antibacterial and antiviral properties. It is believed to help prevent viral infections by increasing the body’s temperature and also flushing out toxins. Switch a cup for tea in the morning to hot lemon and freshly chopped ginger, add it to salads, stir-fry dishes or chew on the root in it’s raw form. It is also know to help to boost your metabolism and help with nausea.

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Coconut Oil

Not only does it taste banging, it’s amazing as a moisturiser, replacement to olive oil when cooking and is now being tested in the Philippines as a potential agent to fight COVID-19. Known for it’s antiviral compounds, it has been shown to be safe and effective for helping both humans and animals. Coconut oil’s medium-chain fatty acids are believed to fight against lipid-coated viruses, such as influenza and Epstein-Barr. They apparently disrupt the virus membranes preventing them from growing and maturing. Adding some to your diet each day also leaves your skin glowing and is brilliant for your hair and taking off make-up too.

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Curcumin

Next up it’s Curcumin which is a component of turmeric. It has been used for many years as a food additive and herbal supplement due to its potential medicinal properties. It has shown antiviral capabilities against a range of viruses, including dengue virus and hepatitis C, amongst others. It also has powerful anti-inflammatory effects and is a very strong antioxidant helping not only with pain but brain health too.

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