Virus, friend or foe?

We will learn about some herbs that support our immune system in dealing with viral infections. We will try to address the question: When exposed to a virus, why do some people get sick while others stay healthy? Handouts will be given and a cup of herbal tea.

Now that the lockdown restrictions are easing I am planning to restart small herbal classes. I feel, more than ever, that we must not forget about the health benefits of herbs around us, and how they can help mankind to prevent illness and to heal disease. During the lockdown I put my trust into these three herbs: Echinacea, Sage and Licorice which I took as a mouth and throat spray. All three herbs help us to deal with harmful viruses.

Of course there are many more herbs that are able to do that. Many of these herbs have been researched for their ‘antiviral’ properties, many have not been researched but are part of a long tradition of herbal knowledge in many different countries.

During the last year we have experienced that viruses can be harmful and even lethal for many humans. However two facts must be kept in mind: a strong immune system supports us in dealing with viruses, and secondly, most viruses are essential for our survival.

There are huge numbers of viruses in us and around us. The virome as part of the microbiome is still being investigated. A special type of virus is called a bacteriophage (bacterium eater). These ‘phages’ infect and destroy specific bacteria that are found in the mucous lining in the digestive, reproductive or respiratory tract. Here they are part of our immune system protecting us from harmful bacterial infection. It is a very fine and delicate balance of what helps and what harms us. Natural remedies work by supporting our immune system, and it is this system’s innate intelligence that keeps this balance in good working order.