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Indian Herb Kills Flu Dead In Its Tracks

	by Brent Hauver The global flu epidemic of 1918 was one of the most devastating infectious outbreaks in world history - more virulent even than the Black Death in the 14th century - killing 50 million people worldwide. No country escaped its onslaught, except one: India! In India, the Ayurvedic Medical Doctors used an amazing herb called Andrographis paniculata which stopped the spread of the deadly flu virus dead in its tracks. New research has confirmed a host of pharmacological benefits for this herb, including potent anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial and anti-viral effects. In addition, scientists have discovered that Andrographis paniculata helps boost the immune system, protects against cancer, prevents blood clots and maintains efficient digestive functioning. Andrographis paniculata has been used for centuries by eastern herbalists as a treatment for upper respiratory infections, fever, sore throat and herpes. Other reported applications include its use in cases of malaria, dysentery and even snakebites. As a preventative for the common cold, studies show that andrographis increases the body’s resistance to infection by stimulating the production of antibodies and macrophages - large white blood cells that scavenge foreign matter. In a three-month trial involving 107 students, 54 of the participants took 100mg of andrographis twice daily, while the remaining students were given placebo. At the end of the trial only 16 students in the andrographis group experienced the signs of a cold, compared to 33 in the placebo group 3,4. Improvements were seen in relation to sleeplessness, nasal drainage and sore throat. Andrographis also has a remarkable ability in relieving diarrhea associated with flu and E.coli bacterial infections. I would not recommend “Airborne”. I got some samples of it to carry in my store and found that it was fizzy, but totally ineffective. I was surprised to find that the major ingredients are run of the mill Vitamins/minerals (found in any daily multi) and Echinacea. I was then taken back by the low concentrations of herbs - The red flag came when I found that Airborne has an additive called Polyethylene Glycol which is toxic to humans and is known to cause cancer. It also contains the new artificial sweetener Sucralose which I have some concerns about. And I would defiantly not recommend Zicam. I actually carried it in my store for a while and tracked to see how good a remedy it was. After getting lackluster feedback, I eventually discontinued it. Then on October 14, 2003, I was shocked to see that a number of lawsuits were being filed against it for permanent loss of sense of smell from a single application of the product! The cases are reported at a meeting of the American Rhinologic Society in September 2003. A Big Thumbs up on Andrographis paniculata, Olive leaf Extract, Oregano Oil, Zinc, Elderberry, and Garlic. Thumbs Down on Airborne and Thumbs Down on Zicam. Remember REST is important. The worst thing you can do is try to get back into the full work and not be totally recovered. I have seen too many folks jump back to quick, then go down again because they are not fully recovered. We get a yo-yo effect that will keep you down longer than if you just stayed down and fully recuperated. Brent Hauver is a Holistic Health Researcher who owns and operates Sage Health and Empowerment Center in Overton.