Still Can't Elude the Common Cold

Major pharmaceutical companies tell the public that their research scientists are hard at work and close to finding a miraculous cure for colds and flu.

Natural science and native wisdom.

Other remedies show much more promise with substantial scientific proof of the effectiveness of homeopathic and herbal remedies that, over many centuries, have successfully been used by various cultures, including ours.

Recent scientific research verifies the effectiveness of these substances and explores related biochemical factors. Well Being, in this issue, looks at a few naturally occurring substances, such as Vitamin C, Red Clover, Zinc, Goldenseal and Echinacea, that have scientific data substantiating their effectiveness. Political aspects in the pharmaceutical industry, the FDA and the AMA, reveal that findings and data of scientific research are due to studies in Europe (not the United States).

Evidence doesn't exist (apart from anecdotal) suggesting that these substances can stop illnesses from developing. They can reduce how severe flu and cold symptoms are and restricts its duration by up to one third. Research results vary, however, double-blind studies confirm that these benefits do exist.

Echinacea (indigenous American plant consisting of 3 species: E. pallida, E. angustifolia and E. purpurea) is a widely researched herb with properties that stimulate the body's immune system. Echinacea has particular chemical compounds (called "phenols") together with other possibly important constituents - polysaccharides and alkamides. No real clarity exists regarding how the chemical components contribute to specific aspects of the effects of Echinacea. If ground, this herb (aerial or roots) can be made into supplements.

Taking Echinacea, when symptoms appear, can lead to reduced intensity and duration of colds and can help in keeping it from becoming an infection. Research shows that Echinacea combats head colds and interrelated disorders by increasing the body's immune cells, boosting their ability against harmful bacteria and seldom has side effects. Echinacea can be used after exposure to others who have flu or colds. Take Echinacea when necessary and not as an all-purpose supplement to prevent the development of colds and flu because, after approximately 8 weeks of taking it, the body is not as responsive.

The Cherokee Indians traditionally used Goldenseal for treating ulcers and wounds. Goldenseal, a perennial small plant found in the damp forests of North America, is used in various combination formulas which apparently increase the effectiveness of other herbs. Some preparations are marketed as treatments for urinary infections, menstrual disorders, anti spasmodic treatments, muscular and rheumatic pain.

The Ideal Solution:

Flu and cold season many times requires people to strengthen their Custom Essentials° and 2 potent products from Ideal Health, to help with this, are Ideal C-PIus:M and Progard®.