Cassia is a genus of flowering plants in the legume family, Fabaceae, and the subfamily Caesalpinioideae. Species are known commonly as cassias. Cassia is also the English common name of some species in the genus Cinnamomum of the family Lauraceae. Species of the genera Senna and Chamaecrista were previously included in Cassia. Cassia now generally includes the largest species of the legume subtribe Cassiinae, usually mid-sized trees.

Cassia species occur in a range of climates. Some can be utilized ...

cassia

Why-Use-Herbs-for-Better-Digestion-and-Absorption

Why Use Herbs for Better Digestion and Absorption

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Long before we had drugs at our fingertips in the pharmacy, people all over the world relied on plants to treat some of their ailments, including digestive disorders.

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Today, many of these same botanical drugs remain widespread for use in common symptoms of digestive problems. Bouts of nausea, vomiting, heartburn, dyspepsia, bloating, belching, flatulence or acute diarrhea, when occasionally or mild, can all be treated alone and with good effect.

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More serious or persistent digestive disorders, such as intestinal infections, chronic diarrhea, chronic acid reflux, inflammatory bowel disease (e.g., Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis), or peptic ulcers, among others, should be discussed with a qualified specialist. Although these digestive problems can also be treated with herbs, the results can be much more variable, and medical judgment is paramount and most important for a successful outcome.

Botanical-nervous-relaxants

Botanical nervous relaxants

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For a healthy digestive function, our bodies need to be in a relaxed state. When we are in a state of anxiety and stress, the "fight or flight" response is triggered. Then digestion always remains in the background to dealing with stress or stressor. When eating in this state, it is common to develop digestive disorders, be it diarrhea, constipation, or very severe abdominal pain.&nbsp;

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For those whose digestion is easily disturbed by an emotional disorder, botanical nerve relaxants can have a pronounced positive effect on the nervous system, which is naturally followed by relief in the digestive system. They do this by reducing the stress response an adaptive triggering of the sympathetic nervous system, accompanied by simultaneous shutdown of any other bodily function that is not needed in emergencies for survival. Essentially, these herbs help heal our nervous stomachs by making us calmer.&nbsp;

Six-herbs-for-better-digestion-and-absorption

Six herbs for better digestion and absorption

Mint-(Mentha-x-piperita-and-Mentha-spp.)-for-digestion

Mint (Mentha x piperita and Mentha spp.) for digestion

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The use of peppermint essential oil as a digestive aid probably dates back to ancient Greece. A few thousand years later, there is already a set of scientific studies that support its use, especially in the form of enteric coated peppermint oil capsules, for symptomatic relief of irritable bowel syndrome. &nbsp;<a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/apt.14519" target="_blank" data-ref="Just a moment..." rel="noopener">[ref. 1]</a>&nbsp;

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The enteric coating of the capsule allows peppermint oil to pass undigested through the more acidic upper areas of the gastrointestinal tract to the lower intestine, where, as reported in the British Medical Journal more than 30 years ago, it has the effect of a mild smooth-muscle relaxant that serves to soothe digestive spasm, inhibits gastrointestinal contraction, relieves gas, and reduces pain and discomfort. &nbsp;<a href="http://www.ephysician.ir/index.php/browse-issues/2016/9/480-3024" target="_blank" data-ref="A systematic review study of therapeutic effects of Matricaria recuitta chamomile (chamomile)" rel="noopener">[ref. 2]</a>&nbsp;

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Mint-(Mentha-x-piperita-and-Mentha-spp.)-for-digestion_2_3

You can also use mint in other ways. It is not necessary to suffer from a digestive disorder to enjoy mint, at least in the form of peppermint tea. No adverse effects have been reported from mint tea and it may be the most widely consumed herbal infusion with one ingredient. Even the most delicate stomach will be grateful for a cup of peppermint tea after dinner, thanks to its delicate aroma, taste and all the beneficial effects on digestion.

Chamomile-(Matricaria-recutita,-M.-chamomilla,-Chamomilla-recutita)

Chamomile (Matricaria recutita, M. chamomilla, Chamomilla recutita)

Chamomile-(Matricaria-recutita,-M.-chamomilla,-Chamomilla-recutita)_2_0

Chamomile is a plant nerve relaxant that is popular for use in digestive symptoms, used alone or in combination, such as herbal infusion, tincture or homeopathic.&nbsp;

Chamomile-(Matricaria-recutita,-M.-chamomilla,-Chamomilla-recutita)_2_1

Chamomile has traditionally been prescribed in the treatment of both acute and chronic stomach distress, such as inflammation and spasms of the digestive organs. Although human research is limited, there are studies of dried chamomile flower extracts demonstrating antispasmodic and anxiolytic (anti-anxiety) effects. Along with the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of chamomile, these actions may explain its overall calming effect on digestion.&nbsp;

Chamomile-(Matricaria-recutita,-M.-chamomilla,-Chamomilla-recutita)_2_2

Numerous chemical compounds, including apigenin, have been isolated from chamomile flowers. The pharmacological effects of this phenolic flavonoid are not fully understood, but it has been noted that apigenin has an affinity for GABA receptors in the brain where it can exert a natural inhibitory effect on the central nervous system.&nbsp;

Chamomile-(Matricaria-recutita,-M.-chamomilla,-Chamomilla-recutita)_2_3

Generally recognized as safe and well tolerated, chamomile may, however, cause rare allergic symptoms in those who are sensitive to plants in the families Asteraceae, Umbelliferae, Amaryllidaceae.

Chamomile-(Matricaria-recutita,-M.-chamomilla,-Chamomilla-recutita)_2_4

Melissa-officinalis

Melissa officinalis

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Often formulated in combination products, lemon balm, rosemary, and valerian as the next three herbs are good nerve relaxants that can help eliminate digestive cramps, relieve excess gas, soothe malaise, and reduce pain. There is somewhat limited clinical evidence to support their use, but based on observations and available research, these herbs are generally well tolerated and can be taken orally to help reduce symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders.&nbsp;

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Lemon balm, also known as melissa, is another member of the mint family, used internationally for centuries to relieve gas, cramps and dyspepsia, as well as to increase tranquility.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Rosmarinus-officinalis

Rosmarinus officinalis

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Rosemary is known for its antispasmodic effects. Studies of the active ingredients of medicinal plants often show biochemical similarities between different species. Rosemary and lemon balm, for example, share a polyphenolic compound known as rosmarinic acid, which contributes to their beneficial effects.

Valerian-officinalis

Valerian officinalis

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Valerian is better known for its effects on anxiety and nervous sleep disorders and is often formulated with other herbs such as hops or lemon balm for use as a mild sedative. Historically, valerian has also been used for gastrointestinal problems, such as intestinal cramps and flatulence. 4

Fennel-(Foeniculum-vulgare)

Fennel (Foeniculum vulgare) 

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Fennel, also called kopret, field dill, wild dill, pharmacy dill, fennel, false fenugreek, originates from traditional Ayurveda, Middle Eastern and Mediterranean medicine. Preparations from wild fennel leaves and seeds have been noticed as an aid in preventing and relieving the formation of gas and reducing bloating, heartburn and constipation.&nbsp;

Fennel-(Foeniculum-vulgare)_2_1

It is also believed that fennel promotes the secretion of digestive enzymes and stimulates appetite. Dill is generally considered safe, although it can rarely cause an allergic reaction. It is not recommended to use it during pregnancy. &nbsp;<a href="https://peerj.com/articles/10308/" target="_blank" data-ref="Effects of dietary fennel (Foeniculum vulgare Mill.) seed powder supplementation on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, small intestinal morphology, and carcass traits of broilers" rel="noopener">[ref. 3]</a>&nbsp;

Swedish-bitter---a-well-known-remedy-for-better-digestion

Swedish bitter - a well-known remedy for better digestion

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There are many different formulations, passed down over the centuries by elders familiar with the local flora. Swedish bitter, probably the most famous here in the Western world, originated in Europe in the 16th century, where it was used for a number of gastrointestinal symptoms, including stomach cramps. It is believed that one "original" recipe was tincture of aloe (Aloe vera), myrrh (Commiphora myrrha, Commiphora molmol), saffron, senna leaves (Cassia), camphor, angelica root (Angelica), rhubarb root (Rheum rhabarbarum) and other ingredients, in a mixture of several different spirits. Nowadays, there are a number of different preparations called "Swedish bitterness" that contain more diverse combinations of herbs from around the world.

Types-of-herbal-products

Types of herbal products 

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Since we encounter different concepts, it is important to clarify what is the difference between tea, herbal infusion, decoction and tincture. These are the different methods we use to prepare the essential oils and additional active ingredients found in medicinal plants.

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Infusion - similar to a decoction, but generally more powerful, with plant materials being allowed to soak in oil or boiling water for a while.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Tincture — an extract prepared by placing herbs or other plant material in a jar of ethanol or another form of alcohol, letting it stand for several weeks or more, periodically shaking, then strained. Sometimes vinegar or glycerin is used instead of alcohol.</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Herbal infusion — herbal "tea" brewed in water from any plant material other than the real tea plant (Camellia sinensis)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Decoction — prepared by boiling ground or creased vegetable materials in water, then strained the result.</li></ul>

These are just a few of the many herbs with a long tradition of use in digestive disorders. Look for these herbs at your health food store or groceries, if you have a garden you can grow them there or buy them from the market. Keep in mind that herbs work differently for each person, and not only are they important for good digestion. It is most important to establish what is causing stomach disorders and symptoms in order to eliminate the causes of the problem. And as always, before using herbs for a digestive condition that plagues you, consult a qualified herbalist, naturopath, or other medical person at your discretion.

6 great herbs for better digestion and absorption of nutrients

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Бетина Цветкова

Why-are-hepatitis-viruses-dangerous?

Why are hepatitis viruses dangerous? 

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Hepatitis viruses are a serious problem around the world. Hepatitis A, a major cause of acute hepatitis in many parts of the world, is in serious decline in the developed world as a result of the existence of an effective vaccine. The disease remains prevalent in the developing world. Hepatitis B is also significantly inhibited by vaccination in the developed world, but remains a major cause of chronic hepatitis, cirrhosis and liver cancer in parts of Africa and Asia.

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It is important to suggest that viral hepatitis can be fatal. Viral hepatitis types A, B, C, D and E can cause infection and subsequent inflammation of the liver, which can lead to serious diseases, including liver cancer or even death. People infected with hepatitis A and E almost always recover and do not need treatment. In the case of viruses B, C and D, infection can become chronic and some patients may develop a more serious diagnosis, such as liver cancer or cirrhosis. However, if the infection is detected in time, it can be treated.

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In turn, people with the hepatitis C virus can make a full recovery, and there are vaccines that protect against viral hepatitis A, B, D and E.

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Herbal-treatment-for-different-subtypes-of-viral-hepatitis

Herbal treatment for different subtypes of viral hepatitis 

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We distinguish several main types of acute viral infections of the liver – these are hepatitis A, E, B and C. They correspond to the subtype of virus that is causative. As you will see from the article, there is a wide range of herbal remedies that can be applied to any type of hepatitis. It is advisable to do this after consulting a medical practitioner in case other drugs are taken or there are specifics in the person's condition.

Herbs-in-acute-hepatitis

Herbs in acute hepatitis  

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Andrographis-paniculata

Andrographis paniculata 

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A hepatoprotective (providing a protective effect to the liver) and antiviral herb seems an ideal recommendation in case of acute infection with the hepatitis A virus. Andrographis paniculata (Andrographis stalk), a Southeast Asian herb of the Acanthaceae family, meets these criteria. The leaves are highly bitter and, according to traditional medicine, are used for liver-related problems. The leaves have been extensively studied and have been shown to be beneficial for people with acute upper respiratory tract viral infections, although most of the studies involved a major producer of extracts from the plant, and negative results may not be Published.&nbsp;

Silybum-marianum

Silybum marianum 

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The seeds of Silybum marianum (milk thistle), specifically the flavonolignan complex known as silymarin extracted from the seeds, have been studied in patients with acute viral hepatitis. The most recent and high-quality study involved patients with acute hepatitis A, B, C or E; cytomegalovirus; or associated with Epstein-Barr hepatitis virus in Egypt.&nbsp;

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Patients were treated with either 140 mg. Three times a day silymarin or multivitamins for 28 days. Jaundice decreases faster in silymarin than in the group of people taking the multivitamin, and tends to reduce other symptoms, such as fatigue and anorexia, more quickly in favor of silymarine. &nbsp;<a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19303273/" target="_blank" data-ref="A randomized controlled trial to assess the safety and efficacy of silymarin on symptoms, signs and biomarkers of acute hepatitis - PubMed" rel="noopener">[ref. 1]</a>&nbsp;

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In a much smaller study, silymarin at a dose of 140 mg, three times a day, lowered serum transaminase and bilirubin levels more effectively than placebo in patients with acute hepatitis A or B. Although there is not enough evidence yet, at least we know that silymarin is extremely safe to use. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/353464/" target="_blank" data-ref="[Results of a double blind study on the effect of silymarin in the treatment of acute viral hepatitis, carried out at two medical centres (author's transl)] - PubMed" rel="noopener">[ref.</a>&nbsp;2]&nbsp;

Herbal-formula-Liv.52-(Liv.52)

Herbal formula Liv.52 (Liv.52) 

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An herbal formula known as Liv.52 has also been studied in people with viral hepatitis caused by hepatitis A, hepatitis B and hepatitis E virus. It is unclear whether this is a traditional formula or a modern recipe; the ingredients are as follows:

Herbal-formula-Liv.52-(Liv.52)_2_2

<ul><li aria-level="1">Capparis spinosa&nbsp;</li></ul><ul><li aria-level="1">Cichorium intybus&nbsp;</li></ul><ul><li aria-level="1">Terminalia arjuna</li></ul><ul><li aria-level="1">Solanum nigrum</li></ul><ul><li aria-level="1">Achillea millefolium&nbsp;</li></ul><ul><li aria-level="1">Cassia occidentalis</li></ul><ul><li aria-level="1">Tamarix gallica</li></ul><ul><li aria-level="1">Ferric oxide calx&nbsp;</li></ul>Several double-blind studies conducted in India have suggested that Liv.52 is effective in patients with acute hepatitis. Most of the formulas were not originally published in English or were in non-mainstream publications. Given these data, it still appears that Liv.52 may clear symptoms and reduce serum bilirubin faster than placebo. The typical Liv.52 dose is 275-550 mg. three times a day in capsules or 5-10 ml. syrup three times a day. &nbsp;<a href="https://linkinghub.elsevier.com/retrieve/pii/S0944711305000528" target="_blank" data-ref="Redirecting" rel="noopener">[ref. 3]</a>&nbsp;

Other-herbs-of-alternative-medicine

Other herbs of alternative medicine 

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Various other Western and Eastern herbs are widely used as antiviral drugs during other acute infections and should be considered clinically and for research projects to help people recover from acute viral hepatitis faster. These herbs include Ligusticum porteri root (Osha), Ligusticum grayi root, Lomatium dissectum root (Lomatium), herb Forsythia suspensa (Forsitia, Forsycia), herb Hypericum perforatum (St. John's wort) and Coptis chinensis (Golden thread).

Herbs-in-chronic-hepatitis

Herbs in chronic hepatitis 

Glycyrrhiza-glabra-(licorice)-and-G.-uralensis-(Ural-liquorice)

Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice) and G. uralensis (Ural liquorice) 

Glycyrrhiza-glabra-(licorice)-and-G.-uralensis-(Ural-liquorice)_3_0

Chronic hepatitis C is an extremely common problem around the world. Hepatitis C is usually a very slow-growing disease and can have a wide range of manifestations. A large proportion of people with hepatitis C remain asymptomatic or oligosymptomatic. The main areas of therapeutic interest are to prevent progression of the disease to cirrhosis of the liver or hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and to reduce symptoms, if present.&nbsp;

Glycyrrhiza-glabra-(licorice)-and-G.-uralensis-(Ural-liquorice)_3_1

Interferons and ribavirin are currently used for most patients to suppress viral load, but the drugs are expensive, cause many adverse effects and are not always effective enough. A very large HALT-C study recently found that treatment with IFN-a-2a for many years was not effective in preventing the progression of chronic hepatitis C. Therefore, other means, including herbal ones, should be sought.&nbsp;

Glycyrrhiza-glabra-(licorice)-and-G.-uralensis-(Ural-liquorice)_3_2

Many long-term studies have looked at the triterpenoid saponin known as glycyrrhizin, found in the roots of Glycyrrhiza glabra (licorice) and G. uralensis (Ural liquorice) for patients with chronic hepatitis C. Glycyrrhizin can also be given by intravenous injection together with glycine and cysteine as the drug Stronger Neo-Minophagen C. However, the effects of its administration have not been sufficiently studied in the laboratory.

Glycyrrhiza-glabra-(licorice)-and-G.-uralensis-(Ural-liquorice)_3_3

More impressively, at least three studies in Japan have shown that SNMC may reduce the risk of developing cirrhosis or chronic hepatitis C. One of these studies was a retrospective analysis of 456 patients with chronic hepatitis C seen in hospitals, most of whom had not responded to interferon treatment. The risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma in patients whose serum ALT fell below 1.5, the upper limit of normal, was 60% lower compared to patients who did not receive this reduction. The average duration of therapy was 4.1 years. <a href="https://www.karger.com/Article/FullText/48283" target="_blank" data-ref="" rel="noopener">[ref.</a>&nbsp;4]&nbsp;

Glycyrrhiza-glabra-(licorice)-and-G.-uralensis-(Ural-liquorice)_3_4

It is not known whether oral licorice products (Glycyrrhiza glabra) would be useful for people with chronic hepatitis C, although the herb is definitely a traditional remedy for liver problems. Assumptions about its potential value come from the use of the shosaiko-to formula in patients with chronic hepatitis B. This formula includes the following herbs:

Glycyrrhiza-glabra-(licorice)-and-G.-uralensis-(Ural-liquorice)_3_5

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Bupleurum falcatum - root, 16%&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Paeonia lactiflora - root, 16%&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Pinellia ternata - rhizome, 14%&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Cinnamomum cassia- bark, 11%&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Zingiber officinale - rhizome, 11%</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Zizyphus jujuba &mdash;fruit, 11%</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Panax ginseng &mdash;root, 8%</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Scutellaria baicalensis &mdash;root, 8%</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Glycyrrhiza uralensis &mdash;rhizome, 5%</li></ul>People taking licorice or glycyrrhizin in any form should be warned to regularly monitor their blood pressure and potassium levels in serum or urine. Doses should be reduced or treatment stopped if these parameters become imbalanced. Potassium-depleting diuretics enhance glycyrrhizin toxicity and should not be combined with it except under very close medical supervision.

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Taraxacum-officinale-(Dandelion)-and-root-of-Arctium-lappa-(burdock)

Taraxacum officinale (Dandelion) and root of Arctium lappa (burdock) 

Taraxacum-officinale-(Dandelion)-and-root-of-Arctium-lappa-(burdock)_3_0

Other traditional hepatoprotective herbs are Taraxacum officinale root (Dandelion) and Arctium lappa root (burdock). These herbs are commonly used by herbalists and naturopathic doctors in chronic hepatitis C and should be considered in research.

Taraxacum-officinale-(Dandelion)-and-root-of-Arctium-lappa-(burdock)_3_1

Another herb that counteracts inflammation is Curcuma longa (turmeric), which also has a strong history of use as a hepatoprotective agent and has been shown to reduce inflammation in hepatocytes and protect these cells against iron overload.&nbsp;

Chronic-hepatitis-B

Chronic hepatitis B  

Chronic-hepatitis-B_4_0

The hepatitis B virus (HBV) is an epidemic in Asia and Africa, although the availability of a vaccine is beginning to reduce the incidence of this disease. Unlike chronic hepatitis C, chronic hepatitis B is much more likely to progress to cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Therefore, there is an acute need for an effective, safe alternative to drug therapies (to which the virus often develops resistance if taken long-term) for this complex and difficult disease.

Shosaiko-to-formula

Shosaiko-to formula 

Shosaiko-to-formula_4_0

The traditional formula, known in Chinese as Xiao Chai Hu Tang and in Japanese as shosaiko-to, which translates into English as Minor Bupleurum Decoction, was first recorded in the book Shang Han Lun. This treatise was written at least 2,000 years ago, and its postulates have been applied for at least as much.&nbsp;

Shosaiko-to-formula_4_1

The ingredients of the Xiao Chai Hu Tang formula are:

Shosaiko-to-formula_4_2

<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Bupleurum falcatum - root, 16%&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Paeonia lactiflora- root, 16%&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Pinellia ternatа - rhizome, 14%&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Cinnamomum cassia&nbsp; - bark, 11%&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Zingiber officinale- rhizome, 11%</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Zizyphus jujuba &mdash;fruit, 11%</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Panax ginseng &mdash;root, 8%</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Scutellaria baicalensis &mdash;root, 8%</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Glycyrrhiza uralensis &mdash;rhizome, 5%</li></ul>Two randomized trials have evaluated the long-term potential of this formula for the prevention of hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with chronic hepatitis B in Japan. In the first study, 260 patients with cirrhosis caused by chronic hepatitis B were treated with conventional therapies, and some subjects were also randomized to take 7.5 g daily shosaiko-to for 34 months. The incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma at the end of the follow-up period was significantly lower in the shosaiko-to group compared to patients in the control group. In what appears to be an extension of the original study to 60 months, HCC levels are still lower and survival is better in the shosaiko-to group than in the conventional therapy group. <a href="https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8625175/" target="_blank" data-ref="Prospective study of chemoprevention of hepatocellular carcinoma with Sho-saiko-to (TJ-9) - PubMed" rel="noopener">[ref.</a>&nbsp;5]&nbsp;

Fuzheng-Huayu-formula

Fuzheng Huayu formula 

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Another formula based on herbs traditionally used for liver problems and experimentally proven to have antifibrotic action and benefits in patients with cirrhosis has been studied in patients with chronic hepatitis B. The ingredients of the formula are:

Fuzheng-Huayu-formula_4_1

<ol><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Salvia miltiorrhiza (Chinese sage) - root 33.3%&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Gynostemma pentaphyllum - root 25%&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Fermentation mycelium powder - 16.7%&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Schisandra chinensis (Schisandra) - fruit 8.3%&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Prunus persica (Peach)—seed 8.3%&nbsp;</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Pinus spp. (Pine) - pollen 8,3%</li></ol>

There are many herbal remedies that can be used in the subtypes of viral hepatitis. Their role is to exert a hepatoprotective effect, that is, to protect the liver from or prevent damage. Herbal treatment for viral hepatitis can be carried out using a large number of herbs and herbal formulas, some of which come from Chinese or Indian traditional medicine, but also from other alternative healing&nbsp; systems.

Herbal treatment for viral hepatitis - which herbs support the liver

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Why-do-we-need-herbal-therapeutics-for-respiratory-viruses

Why do we need herbal therapeutics for respiratory viruses 

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Respiratory viruses are the most common causes of disease in humans, with a significant impact on morbidity and mortality worldwide, mainly in children. &nbsp;<a href="https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/immunology-and-microbiology/respiratory-virus" target="_blank" data-ref="ScienceDirectScience DirectScienceDirect helpElsevierRELX Group" rel="noopener">[Ref. 1]</a>&nbsp; The respiratory viruses that most often circulate in all continents as endemic or epidemic agents are influenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus, parainfluenza viruses, metapneumovirus, rhinovirus, coronaviruses, adenoviruses and bocaviruses. Although the human body has mechanisms for protection and immune response, it is never superfluous to look for solutions in nature.&nbsp; And there are often, but we need to know them and know how to use them properly and with minimal risk of side effects or interactions.

Why-do-we-need-herbal-therapeutics-for-respiratory-viruses_-1_2

There is scientific evidence regarding the effectiveness of several complementary therapies for colds and flu. For example, oral zinc intake can reduce the duration and severity of a cold. Regular intake of vitamin C supplements only slightly reduces the duration and severity of colds, but supports the resistance of the body as a whole.

Why-do-we-need-herbal-therapeutics-for-respiratory-viruses_-1_3

Probiotics were also found to be better than placebo at reducing the number of episodes of acute upper respiratory tract infections, the frequency of episodes of acute upper respiratory tract infections, and reducing antibiotic use. And against the backdrop of global antibiotic resistance, this is very good news.&nbsp;

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Since there are no fully effective universal drugs or vaccines for all respiratory viruses, the search for alternative therapies is a sensible approach. Next, we'll take a look at ten natural remedies to treat&nbsp; the flu or cold symptoms you can try.

Traditional-herbal-remedies-for-cold-and-flu-viruses

Traditional herbal remedies for cold and flu viruses

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Traditional herbal remedies were used by ancient peoples to prevent or treat colds and flu. A variety of herbs are widely used to deal with viral respiratory infections. The control and treatment of influenza depends mainly on chemical or biochemical agents that are isolated from plants. These agents include various polyphenols, flavonoids, saponins, glucosides and alkaloids contained in the following plants.

Mao 

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Herbal medicine Maoto has traditionally been prescribed to flu patients in Japan. Maoto is one of the main means <a href="../../p/%D0%9E%D1%81%D0%BD%D0%BE%D0%B2%D0%B8-%D0%BD%D0%B0-%D1%8F%D0%BF%D0%BE%D0%BD%D1%81%D0%BA%D0%B0%D1%82%D0%B0-%D1%82%D1%80%D0%B0%D0%B4%D0%B8%D1%86%D0%B8%D0%BE%D0%BD%D0%BD%D0%B0-%D0%9A%D0%B0%D0%BC%D0%BF%D0%BE-%D0%BC%D0%B5%D0%B4%D0%B8%D1%86%D0%B8%D0%BD%D0%B0" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Campo medicine</a> (traditional Japanese herbs), composed of 4 medicinal herbs:&nbsp;

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<ol><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Ephedrae Herba (stem of Ephedra sinica) (Chinese ephedra)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Cinnamomi Cortex (bark of Cinnamomum cassia Blume) (Cassia)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Armeniacae Semen (core from Prunus armeniaca Linné) (Apricot)</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Glycyrrhizae Radix (root of Glycyrrhiza uralensis Fisher) (Chinese liquorice) &nbsp;<a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ptr.1892" target="_blank" data-ref="Just a moment..." rel="noopener">[ref. 2]</a>&nbsp;</li></ol>The administration of oral maoto granules to adults with seasonal influenza is well tolerated and associated with equivalent clinical and virological efficacy of neuraminidase inhibitors. Maoto also exhibited antipyretic activity in influenza virus-infected mice and reduced the virus by increasing virus-related natural antibodies.&nbsp;

Licorice-roots

Licorice roots

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Glycyrrhizin is an active ingredient in licorice studied in mice infected with influenza A2 virus (H2N2). The study revealed that glycyrrhizin may protect mice that have been exposed to a lethal amount of influenza virus by stimulating the production of interferon-gamma by T cells. &nbsp; <a href="https://journals.asm.org/doi/10.1128/AAC.41.3.551" target="_blank" data-ref="Just a moment..." rel="noopener">[ref. 3]</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

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Glycyrrhizin is also known to exert immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects, and is therefore a candidate drug to control H5N1-induced proinflammatory gene expression. &nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s00430-010-0155-0?error=cookies_not_supported&amp;code=33f27c1a-b14d-4755-a548-cbf99f95486a" target="_blank" data-ref="Glycyrrhizin inhibits highly pathogenic H5N1 influenza A virus-induced pro-inflammatory cytokine and chemokine expression in human macrophages - Medical Microbiology and Immunology" rel="noopener">[ref. 4]</a>&nbsp;

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Other potential mechanisms to glycyrrhizin action are:

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<ul><li>Immunomodulation</li><li>Anti-inflammatory action</li><li>Reduction of virus uptake by host cells</li></ul>

Extracts-of-berries

Extracts of berries

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Polyphenols are the main culprits for the positive effects of berries in influenza viruses and the common cold. A team of scientists investigated the ability of cranberry polyphenols to alter the immunity of participants who consumed a cranberry drink. The study revealed that consumption of the beverage altered the ex vivo proliferation of γδ-T cells, where these cells reside in the epithelium and serve as the first line of defense, improving their function, which may be associated with a decrease in the number of symptoms associated with colds and flu. &nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://nutritionj.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1475-2891-12-161" target="_blank" data-ref="Consumption of cranberry polyphenols enhances human &gamma;&delta;-T cell proliferation and reduces the number of symptoms associated with colds and influenza: a randomized, placebo-controlled intervention study - Nutrition Journal" rel="noopener">[ref. 5]</a>&nbsp;

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The mechanism of action of polyphenols includes:

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<ul><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Modification of immunity</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">improving the function of T cells</li><li style="font-weight: 400;" aria-level="1">Antioxidant action</li></ul>

Echinacea

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Echinacea preparations are widely used for the prevention and treatment of the common cold. You've probably taken echinacea because of its immunomodulatory effect.

Many herbal therapeutics have scientific evidence of action against respiratory viruses. Herbal remedies, such as mao, licorice roots, North American ginseng, echinacea, pomegranate, guava tea, and Bai Shao, are effective in treating upper respiratory tract infections. There is scientific evidence for the supportive effects of all of these complementary therapeutics in influenza viruses and common cold.&nbsp;

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