Swine Flu and Herbs

Before I go into any detail on herbs that “traditionally” have been used, let me state that the FDA does not recognize any herbs or supplements that can affect any flu virus and the same supplements and herbs CAN NOT be stated to be used to treat any disease or disorder.  That being said, there are herbs that have been used “traditionally” for centuries during times of illness to assist in supporting the immune system. Some of these herbs that are useful to be familiar with are; Honeysuckle Flower (lonicera japonica), Forsythia Fruit (forsythia suspensa), Elderberry (sambucus nigra), Echinacea (echinacea purpurea and augustifolia), Astragalus root (astragalus membranaceus), Osha Root (ligusticum porteri), many mushroom species such as Shiitake (lentinus edodes) and Maitake (grifola frondosa/ polyporus frondosas), Garlic (allium sativum), Ginger Root (zingiber off.).  These are just a few of the herbs that have been used traditionally for immune support.  There are of course many more.