“Herbal remedies,
used in conjunction
with modern science,
have proven to be extremely beneficial
to our four legged friends”
Jim Powell, New
Zealand vet from
“Vet’s Corner” |
Herbs
to Combat Colds and Viruses
Natural herbs can be used effectively to help combat colds and viruses.
Four different categories of herbs are utilised to help
combat the common cold.
First, herbs that stimulate the immune system to fight the infection are
used during and possibly to prevent colds. Echinacea and Asian ginseng
are two examples in this category.
Second, herbs that promote a mild fever, hence sweating (known as diaphoretics)
may be useful. Because a fever is a sign of the immune system working,
it may be that diaphoretics are also immune stimulators like the first
category. Elder, boneset and yarrow are three examples.
The third category includes herbs that may directly kill the viruses that
cause colds, based on test tube studies. Goldenseal, myrrh and usnea are
examples.
Finally, some herbs are used just to alleviate symptoms such as sore throats.
These herbs tend to be high in mucilage and are soothing and anti-inflammatory
or have tannins that are astringent. Marshmallow and red raspberry are
two examples. Symptom-relieving herbs may have other active constituents
and mechanisms of actions. As you can see in the following list, many
herbs fit in more than one category, such as goldenseal (immune stimulating
and antiviral).
Immune-stimulating:
Asian ginseng, astragalus, boneset, echinacea, eleuthero, goldenseal,
hyssop, linden, schisandra, wild indigo.
Diaphoretic:
Boneset, elder flower, hyssop, linden, yarrow.
Symptom-relieving Astringent (soothe sore throat):
Blackberry, blueberry, red raspberry.
Mucilage (soothe sore throat):
Marshmallow, mullein.
Reduce nasal stuffiness:
Eucalyptus, peppermint.
Relieve aches and pains:
Meadowsweet.
Miscellaneous sore throat relief:
Sage, yarrow.
Brookby Herbs have developed natural herbal products to help your animals
combat colds and viruses. For horses we offer Echinacea
Organic Plus, a natural antibiotic that also boosts the immune system
and Breathe Free, a natural expectorant
for treating respiratory problems such as viral coughs and colds. It will
help to soothe away any irritations and unblock the airways.
Nature's Immune Booster
for dogs is a certified organic blend of herbs which enhances your dog's
general well-being and protects against common dog health problems like
kennel cough symptoms.
You can also purchase our range of immune system boosting herbal products
on line by visiting our Herb Shop.
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version of this article.
Brookby Herbs recommends seeking
veterinary advice when an animal is unwell.
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