Take Action Against Cold and Flu

Sometimes we’re too busy to pay attention to the signals our bodies provide, thereby missing the chance to nip cold or flu symptoms in the bud during the crucial early stages. Too often, this means waiting until the condition gets so bad that we can’t sleep at night or function during the day, so we have nothing to lose by taking a conventional medicine that will put us in a fog—or have other unpleasant side effects.

Experts agree that the sooner cold and flu manifestations are treated, the better chance there is for a quick recovery and minimal disruption of our work patterns and our lives. Aside from taking proactive steps like washing hands frequently and taking a multivitamin/mineral, what can we do when we start to feel sick?

A Natural Solution
Instead of simply masking symptoms, homeopathic medicines work with the body to help it rebalance and heal itself. These convenient over-the-counter medicines offer a safe choice free of side effects.

Made of highly diluted microdoses of natural substances, homeopathic medicines treat symptoms similar to those caused by these substances in higher doses. More than 200 years of successful medical use throughout the world has provided a strong basis of proof for the safety and efficacy of homeopathic medicines.

Here in the United States, homeopathic medicines are regulated as drugs by the Food and Drug Administration and are clearly labeled for specific indications, making directions easy to understand.

The First Step
Oscillococcinum, the best-selling homeopathic flu medicine, is wise to take at the first sign of illness. Oscillo, as it’s also called, has been shown to reduce both the severity and the duration of flu symptoms in four studies—particularly when taken at the onset. Since it’s difficult to distinguish between cold and flu symptoms, especially in the early stages, it’s best to start with this medicine.

With a 65-year safety record, no side effects such as drowsiness, and no interactions with other medications or supplements, Oscillo safely prepares your body for healing. Keep it on hand to take when experiencing that run-down feeling along with headache, body aches, chills, and fever.

Customize Your Treatment
The following chart lists useful single medicines for self-treatable signs of colds and flu. Cold symptoms can vary greatly not only because of different virus types, but also due to an individual’s resistance and constitution. While these individual medicines allow for customized choices, it’s okay and sometimes necessary to use a couple of individual medicines to cover all symptoms. For example, for cold accompanied by fever, consider homeopathic Aconitum napellus, Belladonna, or Ferrum phosphoricum according to your symptoms plus solutions for specific upper respiratory discomfort.

After determining which medicine best describes your symptoms, take five pellets of that remedy every hour. Decrease frequency with improvement. If symptoms persist for more than three days or worsen, consult a doctor.