Cold & Flu Suggestions

from Dr. Nicole Garcia

Many of my patients come to see me after their viral infection (90% of colds and flu are viruses first) has become out of control with other side effects of a more serious nature. The suggestions below are for you to employ at the first sign of illness. These are simple, but effective if used within the first 24 hours of illness.

Because medicine has little to offer to benefit the viral arena, what I am about to tell you is from "God's pharmacy" and your kitchen.

Did you know that all citrus fruits; lemons, oranges, grapefruits, tangerines etc. have strong anti-viral qualities?

* At the first sign of cold or flu start taking 1,000 mgs. of vitamin C many times a day and drink lots of hot lemon water.

* Avoid all dairy during a cold as these foods create more mucus.

* EmerGenC packets, which can be found at Henry's or any health food store offer a simple way to carry that 1,000 mgs. of C in purse or pocket.

* Wash your hands frequently and those of your children.

* Several drops of lemon essential oil can be effective in as gentle hand soap for more anti-bacterial, anti-viral action.

Did you know that many therapeutic grade essential oils have powerful anti-viral and anti-bacterial qualities?

Cinnamon, Clove, Eucalyptus Radiata, Lavender, Melaleuca Alternifolia, Thyme, Oregano, and Lemon are antibiotic in nature, antiseptic, antiviral and antifungal.

A blend I highly recommend is one called "Thieves" because of its history during the 1500's and the black plague in Europe. In the British museum is the story of how grave robbers and looters during this time period wore masks and clothing covered with spices like cinnamon and clove, lemon and rosemary to avoid getting sick. When the authorities cornered these men and questioned them as to why they never got the plague they told of the spices they used. This blend of cinnamon, clove, lemon, rosemary and eucalyptus radiata called Thieves is available in lozenges, oral and hand spray, wipes, mouth wash, tooth paste and essential oil blend and household cleaner, safe for user and environment. Dilute essential oil blend and rub on the bottom of children's feet for protection.

Sore throat: Gargle with 1-2 drops of Thieves blend in 1 oz. of water or use spray

Cold sores: Apply lemon essential oil directly on cold sore. Lemon improves microcirculation, promotes white cell formation and improves immune function.

Chest congestion: Rub, steam, or diffuse essential oils of eucalyptus, lemon, and peppermint.

Dilute essential oils with a carrier oil (almond, grapeseed oil) for the young and old or sensitive.

Do NOT use peppermint on the face of children under 3 years of age.

Sinus congestion: Dilute eucalyptus and peppermint with carrier oil and apply liberally in nasal cavities and chest and back. R.C.

Headaches: Inhale peppermint, peppermint and peppermint oil and drink lots of water. Essential oil blend RC, a blend of 4 eucalyptus, myrtle, pine, spruce, marjoram, lavender, cypress and peppermint is my family's favorite for chest rubs. It is similar in smell to Vicks, but much more powerful as this is a pharmaceutical grade of oils.

* Use only the BEST AFNOR-ISO grade essential oils. Essential oil's from bath shops and natural foods stores are often perfume grade and thus may not yield therapeutic results. Perfume grade oils have been rendered toxic by the distillation method, fillers, chemical extractants, etc. and may cause adverse reactions.