Thursday, August 9, 2012


Beyond Echinacea:  Unusual herbs for cold and flu season

As an herbal clinician, I have witnessed about 20% of clients with allergies to the “daisy family” of plants, which happens to include both ragweed and Echinacea.  If you are one of the unfortunate ones that react to Echinacea with additional allergy symptoms, take heart.  There are many other options that are just as powerful, more specific for cold and flu season, and that are not in the daisy family.

Usnea is a lichen that looks like Spanish moss, growing on old growth trees world wide.  Besides being anti-fungal and a candida destroyer, it inhibits gram positive bacteria, specifically targeting the pneumonia, staph and strep viruses,  and goes head to head with bronchitis and tuberculosis.  One powerful lichen to like!

Isatis tinctoria is a member of the Brassicacea (Cabbage) family.  It is a natural antibiotic, antimicrobial, antiviral, antiseptic, alterative and febrifuge (reducing fevers).  It is specific for fighting pharyngitis, laryngitis, encephalitis, mononucleosis,  tonsillitis, scarlet fever, typhoid, staph and strep.  Thankfully, it is also useful to combat shingles, e-coli, salmonella, chicken pox and measles.

Baptisia tinctoria (Wild Indigo) belongs to the Fabacea (pea) family.  It was a favorite of Native Americans and Eclectic physicians as an ideal remedy for epidemics, especially involving the lymph and glandular systems.  It is one of my favorites for throat, tonsil and nasal membrane infections.

All 3 of these are a part of the broad spectrum formula called “Liquid Gold”, named by a grateful client.  Having suffered sinus and bronchial infections for 4 years, with a constant round of antibiotics serving to deplete her immune system, this has been her saving grace, allowing her to be antibiotic free for the past 3 years.  You may read about it and order it at www.geosjoy.com.

Educators, moms, employers and child care providers find it invaluable.  Pregnancy and child friendly versions are available upon request.

May this cold and flu season be one of wellness for you and yours!


Baptisia

Isatis

Usnea