Avian influenza: Five best natural cures for bird flu!

Bird flu is a viral infection spread from bird to bird

Zee Media Bureau

New Delhi: Avian influenza (AI), also called bird flu, is an infectious viral disease that spreads among birds. However, it has started affecting humans since 1997, causing serious infections in people.

People infected with bird flu may show the following symptoms – fever, cough, sore throat, nausea, muscle aches, eye infections, etc. Some people may develop severe respiratory problems and pneumonia.

Several antiviral drugs are being used to treat bird flu. However, there is no commercially available vaccine for humans against bird flu strains. Besides antiviral medication, patients can also go for natural cures that help relieve symptoms of bird flu and boost the immune system, making the body easier to fight off infections.

Here are some herbs and home remedies that can help protect against bird flu infection and speed recovery process in those who become ill:

Turmeric

Turmeric is considered as an effective remedy for colds and flu, including bird flu. This is due to the presence of the compound curcumin, which contains potent antiviral, antifungal, anticancer and antibacterial properties. Curcumin is also a powerful antioxidant that can fight free radicals which damage the immune system.

Garlic

Garlic is another potent natural remedy that can fight against infections effectively. It has been used for centuries for its anti-viral and antibiotic characteristics.

Green tea

Green tea acts as an effective natural cure for bird flu. It is rich in antioxidants and contains substances that have strong anti-viral properties. Green tea also restricts the release of the enzyme called neuraminidase, which the bird flu virus requires in order to reproduce.

Astragalus

(Photo credit:Wikipedia)

This herb can help enhance the immuse system, thereby strengthening the body and make you less vulnerable to the flu. Astragalus has antiviral capabilities and has long been used to treat common colds and the flu. Astragalus herb is hailed for stimulation of the white blood cells, making your body better prepared to fight off any invaders.

Olive leaf extract

Olive leaf extract is a strong immune system enhancer, which supports the blood and lymphatic systems to fight bird flu. It also has antibacterial and antiviral properties