Viruses: what you can do naturally

I see a lot of patients in clinic for both acute viruses and post-viral fatigue. They end up in my office because medically, very little can be given, unless there are complications requiring medical intervention.

I’m sure we have all been unwell with a virus or flu only to be told to rest and wait it out.

In serious situations, some secondary infections, dehydration or other secondary symptoms may require acute medical care, but for the most part, little can be offered in the way of drugs, apart from pain relief.

This is where natural medicine can be a wonderful adjunctive addition to reduce the severity and length of a virus as well as reducing the risk of developing post-viral fatigue, or in some cases, chronic fatigue or fibromyalgia, which has also been linked to certain viruses.

Viruses can come in all sort of shapes and sizes including the common cold, the various strains of influenza, malaria, herpes strains, Ross River fever, CMV and glandular fever, to name a few.

There have been promising studies showing that IV (not oral) administration of vitamin C given within the first 72 hours of a viruses reduces the severity, duration and post viral symptoms experienced.

Oral vitamin C can also be very helpful, however, most people can only tolerate eight-10 grams daily in divided doses, whereas IV can administer 30-45g, without the side effect of upset bowel as it bypasses the gut.

Imagine if every acute glandular fever teenager received this, on top of any other necessary medical treatment, what this could potentially do for their recovery, especially as most succumb in their crucial VCE years.

We also have some very effective antiviral herbs and lymphatic herbs to support the immune system when under stress from a virus. As well as hydration, rest and good nutrition.

If you have a virus, that has been first diagnosed by your GP to exclude other, more serious conditions, consider using prescribed natural medicines to aid your recovery.

Bec Winkler is a naturopath with more than 10 years’ experience. She works at the Chiropractic Centre, Jan Juc.