Cold and flu season is here, but there are simple ways to minimize the fevers, coughs, body aches and misery associated with seasonal bugs. While modern medicine has not found the cure for these seasonal illnesses, many physicians are recommending alternative or traditional therapies to ease the worst symptoms.

Plain old garlic is an inexpensive way to fight germs, and you don't have to smell like an Italian restaurant to get the benefits -- odor-free garlic capsules are available. Kyolic, a popular brand, is widely available at grocery and health food stores.

Studies have shown that alliin, found in crushed or chopped garlic, has an anti-bacterial effect. A recent study in Japan revealed that subjects who took aged garlic extract (AGE) caught significantly fewer colds and flu bugs. AGE is available at health food stores and from nutritional supplement suppliers. Additional information is available at www.kyolic.com.

Another weapon in the immune defense arsenal comes from an unexpected source -- the Soviet Union. General Ivan Ogarkov, a Soviet army scientist and doctor, had no idea that his cold-war era bio-warfare research program would someday help thousands of 21st century Americans dodge winter colds, flu and other immune challenges.

Ogarkov's program for bio-warfare agents taught Russian researchers about natural lactobacillus cell wall pieces and their effect on the immune system. These discoveries ultimately led to an American-made immune support product, Del-Immune V.

Users report fewer colds and flu bouts -- teachers are the product's biggest fans, according to Dr. Elin Ritchie of Taos, N. M. "This product is consistently safe, effective and has no side effects," Dr. Ritchie said.

Other doctors are using it as well. "When I began to use it, I couldn't believe its effectiveness," says Dr. Ted Hayashida of Gardena, Calif.

Dr. Hayashida said he initially gave the product to his wife, who was getting sick with a flu virus. "She was over her illness in six to seven hours," he said. The product is available online at www.delimmune.com, or by calling (888) 466-8635.

If, in spite of preventative efforts, a flu or cold sets in, there are natural remedies available at the health food store. Slippery elm (Ulmus fulva ) has been used as an herbal remedy in North America for centuries. Native Americans used slippery elm in healing salves for wounds, boils, ulcers, burns, and skin inflammation. In particular, the Cherokee used slippery elm for coughs and congestion.

The conditions for which slippery elm has received recognition from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a safe and effective option include sore throat (pharyngitis) and respiratory symptoms, such as cough. Several herbal companies make slippery elm capsules - they are available at most health food stores, and liquid syrups are available for children. The product is also available online at www.organicpharmacy.com.

Prevention is still the best strategy, though. "Nothing replaces plenty of rest, good nutrition, hand-washing and drinking plenty of water throughout the day for beating seasonal cold and flu viruses," Dr. Ritchie said.

Courtesy of ARAcontent