National Institute of Medical Herbalists

Basic Prevention

There is a lot we can do which is basic hygiene and common sense. 

First route of protection is to keep hands away from eyes, mouth and nose which are all pathways for the virus to enter your respiratory tract.

Wash your hands regularly for 20-30 seconds in hot water and use soap which can destroy the virus.  Especially wash your hands after being in a public place e.g. supermarket.

What is ‘Pig Flu’?

‘Pig flu’ is a H1N1 virus.  It was originally a human virus that we gave to pigs and has mutated somewhat.  Its return to humans could mean little more that that it will become just one of the seasonal flu varieties that are in general circulation.  However scientists are keeping a close eye on this virus because it is in the same family (H1N1) as the Spanish flu which killed millions of people after the First World War.  Spanish flu continued to be the dominant strain of flu through until the 1950’s and indeed is still around today.  However it too has mutated somewhat and is not now as aggressive as it was originally.

‘Pig flu’ is NOT the same virus as the ‘Bird Flu’ which everyone was so concerned about a year or two ago.  That was a H5N1 virus and potentially much more dangerous strain of flu.

How Can Herbs Help?

There are a number of ways that herbs can be helpful.  Each herbalist will have their own favourite approach but these generally fall into two basic categories.

Support the general immune system :  Hopefully this will mean that you don’t catch the flu in the first place or if you do it will be in a much milder form.  There are a number of herbs that can be used in this way – Echinacea is a very well known one but there are many others which are equally useful.

Anti-viral treatment:  As flu is a virus it means that antibiotics are not effective as treatments.  There are a number of herbal ‘anti-virals’  - Elderberry and Star Anise have both been used traditionally in this way. 

If you wish to talk about your concerns please check the NIMH register and book an appointment to speak to your local herbalist who will be able to provide advice that is more specific to you and your family.