When the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the coronavirus (COVID-19) a pandemic, it essentially raised the stakes for many Americans. As a naturopathic physician serving Central, NY, and Northern PA, I have started to see empty supermarket shelves and anxiety humming throughout my neighborhood.
Today’s blog isn’t about spreading more panic. The best thing you and your loved ones can do is to be prepared. Now more than ever, holistic medicine and naturopathic doctors are helping clients create the necessary foundation for an impenetrable immune system. There’s also new research finding holistic remedies like herbal compounds that could fight certain strains of the virus.
Immune System Defense ToolKit
Get Active
Researchers have found a compelling link between exercise and immunity. White blood cells (WBC) are our body’s natural defense against viruses like COVID-19. Moderate daily exercise boosts WBC’s ability to scour the body, detect illnesses, and fight back. Breaking a sweat also raises the temperature in the body during and after a gym session, which can prevent harmful bacteria from multiplying. If you’re new to working out, you can start slow with a 20 or 30-minute walk in the morning. Ithaca has four breathtaking state parks within a few miles of downtown that are perfect for exploring and exercising.
Reduce Your Stress
Chronic stress can wreak havoc on your immune system. According to a landmark study released in 2005, prolonged stress wears down the body’s natural defenses, making you vulnerable to contracting viruses. Including stress-reducing activities into your daily routine like Meditation or massages with essential oils can go a long way. Yoga has also been proven to relieve stress and promote wellness.
Stock up on Vitamins
Nutrition is vital in fueling a healthy immune system. While the body absorbs essential nutrients better from whole fruits and vegetables, vitamins, and supplements can help fill the gaps in your diet. Vitamin C, D, and Zinc all support the immune system.
Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that also encourages the production of WBC and protects them from damage. Vitamin D supports the microscopic reactions within the immune system to optimize healing. Zinc can protect immune cells from becoming stressed so you can fight off infections.
That’s just the tip of the iceberg. At our Endicott Naturopathic medicine office, I can design a personalized nutrition plan for you that promotes immunity, vitality, and tastes great too.
Natural Healing ToolKit
Elderberry (Sambucus nigra)
This popular ancient flower and its berries have been healing people since 400BC. According to a recent study in November 2019, researchers found elderberry inhibited the replication of the human coronavirus strain NL63 (HCoV-NL63).
Traditional Chinese Medicine
In 2011 researchers worked with over 200 ancient Chinese herbal treatments in search of anti-viral properties within medicinal herbs. They found six herbal extracts that can inhibit the spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome-associated coronavirus (SARS-CoV).
The herbal extracts of Scythian lamb (Cibotium barometz), gentian root (Gentiana scabra), Chinese or wild yam (Dioscorea batatas), wild senna (Cassia tora), and Chinese mistletoe (Taxillus chinensis) all inhibited the proliferation of the disease.
Take away
Some media sources are still quick to downplay holistic treatment options. There’s also not nearly enough funding to research naturopathic healing alternatives. But holistic medicine has come a long way.
As a naturopathic doctor, I feel hopeful when I hear about traditional medical researchers combining their efforts with holistic healers to naturally promote health and wellness. At our Endicott Naturopathic medicine office, we continue to see remarkable clinical success stories from clients using naturopathic therapies like the ones I covered today!
Would you like to learn more?
The Coronavirus is a large family of viruses that can infect several animal species. The newest strain, COVID-19, can cause a wide range of illnesses, ranging from symptoms like the common cold to more severe respiratory complications.
If you’re looking for holistic services in Endicott, Binghamton, Ithaca, Syracuse and the surrounding areas of New York and P.A, to help you and your loved ones stay healthy and happy, drop by my office. We’ll chat about your concerns, and I can create a personalized wellness program that harnesses the power of the latest innovations in medical research and naturopathic medicine.