Our friend James Jensen, Pharmacist and Integrative Medical Practitioner from Australian Nutrition Centre has been using Coronavirus (COVID-19) case studies from China to help predict what herbs and nutrients are likely to help inhibit the spread of the virus throughout the body, as well as reduce its effects, and is urging people to keep their immune system strong during the pandemic.

Whilst some of the anti-viral medications currently being used have shown brilliant promise, not everyone will have access to these, especially those people who may not be aware they’re infected.

The advantage of herbs and nutrients is that they are readily available to help protect people and are available without prescription. Licorice for example has anti-viral properties and has been shown to stop viruses from entering the body.

Other go to herbs for maxing an anti-viral mix include Ascorbic Acid (Vitamin C), N-Acetyle-Cysteine, Reishi, Tumeric, Perilla, Elderberry and Astragalus.”

Please ensure that you seek advice from a qualified health professional as not all herbs and nutrients will be safe or suitable. When selecting herbs it is important to consider existing medical conditions and medications or very young children. Mega-dosing of some vitamins has shown to increase the chances of being infected with a virus, so it’s important to get advice from someone with knowledge of both natural and pharmaceutical medicines.

Whilst self-isolation and hygiene remain important there are a few ways people can help protect themselves from the virus and ensure a strong immune system.

1. Try and eat well - It’s tempting to reach for the snacks while self-isolating, but processed foods such as lollies, chocolate and soft drinks can create extra inflammation in the body, making it a perfect host for a virus. Small nutrient deficiencies can compromise the immune system, so eating a variety of fruits and vegetables is ideal.

2. Get some sleep - It is important to prioritise sleep, as scientists have discovered that the sleep hormone melatonin has shown to be incredibly important. Young children and women in their third trimester have higher melatonin levels, which is why these age groups seem to be somewhat less affected.

3. Get out in your own backyard - It’s also important you get fresh air and safe sun exposure during times of isolation, as Vitamin D is incredibly important for the immune system.

4. Try to reduce stress - The pandemic can be an anxious time for many people, but stress greatly compromises the immune system. Elevated stress and anxiety raises cortisol, which suppresses the immune system. If stress is something you can’t avoid easily, try and find healthy ways to manage your stress like a daily walk to clear your head or online at home workouts. Also, consider using herbs and nutrients to lower stress hormones as part of your strategy.

For more information visit the Australian Nutrition Centre website - https://australiannutritioncentre.com.au/

Important note: Please ensure that you seek advice from a qualified health professional as not all herbs and nutrients will be safe or suitable.