Last week I thought I had the flu. Actually, I thought I had strep throat, but it turned out to be a severe cold, sore throat, and upset stomach (at least that’s what “Ask-A-Nurse” decided it was). Prior to calling the nurse (I was convinced it was the flu and diagnosed myself with such) I sought out treatments to combat the flu. Do you have any idea how many different products there are that claim to prevent and treat flu-like symptoms? Tons.
Let me be clear, it’s never a good idea to self-diagnosis your maladies (that’s what doctors are for). Nor is it wise to self-medicate with a variety of drugs without consulting a physician first. As I mentioned earlier, it turned out that I didn’t have the flu, but I did find some interesting information on ways to avoid getting the flu.
According to doctors, the best way to protect yourself from the flu is to get the vaccine in a shot. However, there have been a number of recent studies done, which illustrate the positive aspects of using alternative flu remedies. One study was done by a group of herbal pharmacists who recommend oscillococcinum as a preventive measure. According to the pharmacists, oscillococcinum is one of the hottest-selling homeopathic flu remedies on store shelves. In studies done on patients experiencing flu-like symptoms oscillococcinum helped relieve fevers in less than 24 hours and within 48 hours most patients said they felt much better.
Two other popular alternative flu remedies are “Host Defense” and “Lifeshield.” Studies done by the military show they work and are safe. Doctors say: “If you use it every day, it does help prevent bacterial and viral infections.”
Host Defense and Lifeshield are both regulated by the Food and Drug Administration, so they’re safe and have no known side effects and can be given to children over the ago of two.
However, each study I read came with links to other sites where critics questioned whether or not the aforementioned remedies, which tend to be pricey, actually work. In one report, Dr. Jonathan Snider of Newton-Wellesley Hospital said, “The data that I’ve seen, the medical research that I’ve seen have not been beneficial to prevent the flu.” However, Snider did admit that the products may help alleviate symptoms and in all likelihood probably wouldn’t hurt people, but recommended the flu vaccine as the “only sure fire way to avoid getting the flu.”
As a reminder, before taking any herbal remedy, you should check with your doctor first.
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