SW Integrative Medicine Cold and Flu Defense Pack!
Cold and Flu season is upon us and last year we wrote about the 5 Evidenced Based Natural 
Cold and Flu Remedies. This year we put together what we think are the most potent and beneficial natural products for cold and flu and packaged them together into the "Southwest Integrated Medicine Cold and Flu Defense Pack." Our choices are based on our clinical experience and published research supporting their specific use. Certain products will work better depending on if you have a cold or flu.
So before we get into the details of the products to use, let's look at the difference between a cold and a flu and some of the signs (what you can observe) and symptoms (what you feel) to help you determine which you might have. Many times the common cold and flu have very similar symptoms. The main difference is that the flu symptoms will have more severity to them.
Cold Signs and Symptoms Include:
Signs
- Little temperature elevation
- Moderate to severe nasal congestion
Symptoms
- Mild cough
- Short term sore throat
- Mild fatigue
- Occasional headache
- Mild body aches
Outcome
- Generally lasts about 5-10 days and most people will start to feel better in 3-5 days from the onset.
Flu Signs and Symptoms Include:
Signs
- Fever will likely be present
- Mild nasal congestion
Symptoms
- Moderate and sometime severe cough
- Intense body aches
- Sore throat
- Headache is common
- Shortness of breath
- Moderate to severe fatigue
- Moderate to severe cough
Outcome
- Generally lasts about 5-7 days but may last longer. It is not uncommon for the flu to result in bacterial infections, pneumonia, and overall more severe infections.
What do you do if you get sick?
First thing is to review the list of symptoms and signs you have. Most seasonal illnesses are from viruses and do not require antibiotics. For any persistent cold or flu, you should seek medical attention as antibiotics or other medication may be necessary. If your infection is severe enough, you may even need to be hospitalized. With that in mind there are some things you can do to keep that from happening and getting over the infection sooner. That is where the SWIM Cold and Flu Defense Pack comes in.
There are immune stimulants you can take before you get sick for prevention or just after getting sick to shorten the infection period. We combined the most potent ones into our "Cold and Flu Defense Pack." Also included in the pack are instructions on how and when to use each one. The specific contents of the pack are listed below.
MyCommunity
MyCommunity is a 17 species formula that uses Certified Organic mycelium and fruitbodies, with a full spectrum of constituents: polysaccharides, glycoproteins, ergosterols, triterpenoids and other myconutrients, which are essential for supporting Natural Immunity.
- A blend of 17 potent mushroom species
- The most comprehensive immune support formula in the Host Defense line
- Encourages resistance to cellular assaults
- Unique combination of mushroom mycelium and fruitbodies, providing a diverse range of constituents to help balance the immune system
Ivy Calm
Ivy Calm features the clinically studied, proprietary ivy extract, which has been shown to provide anti-spasmodic activity. Ivy Calm supports optimal lung, and bronchial passageway health and function for both adults and children. It naturally supports clear bronchial passages and soothes occasional irritation.
Zinc Lozenges
Zinc is a mineral that acts as a natural viralcidal agent. When it is used as a lozenge it works to kill lingering viruses in the nose and throat. These great-tasting lozenges contain 10 mg of elemental zinc combined with the amino acid glycine. Although Zinc Lozenges are most popular during the winter months, we find they're great to take along when traveling any time of the year. Flavored with sorbitol (a natural sweetener) and orange extract.
Neti Stick
Made of Peppermint, Eucalyptus, Menthol & Lavender, this portable reusable stick can be used for nasal congestion from cold, flu, or allergies. The essential oils are antimicrobial and naturally open the nasal passages.
Some Other Helpful Remedies
Inside the "SWIM Cold and Flu Defense Pack", you will also get some helpful home remedies, including:
1. Salt Water Gargle: An under used and poorly understood remedy that works great. Add this ingredient for added benefits....
2. Onion ear muffs: A great treatment for ear aches associated with or without a cold.
3. Immune support diet: Learn about foods to avoid and foods to eat for maximum prevention or recovery from illness.
4. Minimizing your respiratory tract infections:
Sambucus Black Elderberry Syrup
Black Elberberry or Sambucus nigra has a long-standing tradition for treating influenza. For centuries, the dark berries of the black elder have been used as a winter remedy. Recent studies validated its use for drastically reducing the length of flu symptoms.
We recommend taking this for the flu but it is not in the Cold and Flu Defense Pack.
Click on the link below to get your "SWIM Cold and Flu Defense Pack" or to help you navigate through the cold and flu season.
