The words “Ebola” and “SARS” are synonymous with uncontrolled epidemics and death. Having no cure to prevent or treat these deadly viral strains makes it even more catastrophic. When you add the lack of information and hysteria-inducing ad hoc media coverage, makes you feel that the end of the world is near!!
[pullquote]Though there is no cure for these deadly viruses, ancient wisdom does provide some hope to prevent, handle and overcome some infections. [/pullquote]
SARS, Ebola and West Nile virus can be air-borne, fluid-borne or water-borne. While the way the viruses are transmitted maybe different, they all affect people in the same manner, by attacking the body’s immune system. Finding a cure for such viruses, which affect people at a large scale in a relatively short time, is quite difficult hence precautionary measures are paramount in controlling the spread of the viruses.
Some of the obvious precautionary measures during an outbreak would include wearing of protective clothing (such as masks, gloves, gowns, and goggles); using infection-control measures (such as complete equipment sterilization and routine use of disinfectant) and isolating patients from contact with unprotected persons.
Precautionary Measures:
Other measures that can be taken as a precaution to ensure your immune system is working at its peak are:
- Washing your hands frequently
- Eating well-cooked foods
- Maintaining distance from someone who is sick
- Avoiding crowded and poorly ventilated places
- Sleep deprivation
- Overwork and over-exhaustion
- Diet high in sugar, caffeine and refined products
- Frequent use of antibiotics, steroids or immuno-suppresant drugs
- Reducing stress and maintaining equanimity
- Getting plenty of rest and sleep
- Eating a healthy diet consisting of high fiber, low fat and at least nine servings of vegetables and fruits every day
- Moderate daily exercise including cardiovascular and light weight training
- Avoiding drugs and chemicals whenever possible
These habits should be part of your daily health routine irrespective of your exposure to any of the fatal viruses. A disciplined lifestyle will ensure nutritional support and optimum performance of your immune system without overloading it.
[pullquote]Extensive studies of ways to strengthen the human immune system have been carried out for centuries in China, unearthing a wealth of knowledge from Traditional Chinese herbal medicine and its effect on the immune system. [/pullquote]
Traditional Cures:
Though there is no cure for these deadly viruses, ancient wisdom does provide some hope to prevent, handle and overcome some infections. Extensive studies of ways to strengthen the human immune system have been carried out for centuries in China, unearthing a wealth of knowledge from Traditional Chinese herbal medicine and its effect on the immune system. During the SARS outbreak in Asia, expert herbalists in Traditional Chinese medicine, along with the Chinese Govt. health authority provided recommendations to help people build immunity and strength to handle the outbreak.
These recommendations consist of Chinese herbal formulations such as prophylactic agents against SARS which include herbs like:
. Reed root, Peppermint, Dandelion, Patchouli and Licorice have anti-bacterial properties.
. Cassia seed and Hawthorn berry cleanse the blood and detoxify.
. Cocklebur fruit keeps the sinuses clear and effective against invading pathogens.
. Cherokee rosehip is anti-bacterial and has large amounts of vitamin C.
. Honeysuckle and mulberry are protectors of the immune system.
. Eucommia bark and dodder seed are major tonics for the immune system that also have anti-aging properties.
. Finally licorice root is an anti-bacterial and supports normal adrenal functions while harmonizing the body.
Importance of a strong Internal defense system:
Many people who were exposed to SARS, Ebola, the West Nile virus or the flu virus never came down with the infection because their immune systems were much stronger and better equipped to fend off the viruses than those who were affected by it.
By avoiding activities that would weaken or deplete your immune system, engaging in immune strengthening and supporting actions, and taking adequate precautionary measures you can prevent, overcome and recover from the effects of these deadly viruses.
