With the recent concern of the Coronavirus, Covid-19, I thought you should know my take on the this outbreak. The four main things you need to know are:

• How is it spread?
• Who is most susceptible?
• What are some natural remedies for viruses?
• What to do when you get sick.

How are viruses spread?

You can get this virus, Covid-19/coronavirus through direct human contact, touch, coughs or sneezes, and surfaces like doorhandles, countertops, phones. Washing your hands is the easiest way to reduces the chances of picking up the virus. Also, you should minimize touching your mouth and nose. When you use hand sanitizer, it will kill the coronavirus, however, overuse can really disrupt the normal bacteria on your skin. In turn, you will be open to other infections on your skin. Also, hand sanitizers do not kill all viruses. So, you shouldn't get a false sense of security when you use these products.  You can easily stick with hand washing.

Who is most susceptible to viruses?

You can be sure that not everyone is equally susceptible to any infection.  There are many factors that will prevail. If you are elderly, your immune system may not be as effective as when you were younger. And, if you have children under 2 years old, their immune systems are not totally developed.
Curious, do you have a history or current medical issue with cancer, heart disease, any autoimmune disorder, type 1 or 2 diabetes, obesity, or other disease? If so, you will be more open to any infection. So, your best medicine is prevention. You can take a proactive stance on your health. Read the strategies are below...

What are some natural remedies for viruses?

Most of the following remedies are not for the symptoms of colds or flu's.  You won't get the virus as easily as it will be rendered weaker, and your immune system will be stronger. Please note, if you have an autoimmune disorder, some of these remedies will not be appropriate for you. Obviously, you should connect with your functional medicine doctor for any questions regarding supplements, or with your primary care doctor if you are sick for more than two weeks. You can get the following remedies in my professional dispensary, Fullscript.

Colloidal Silver.

I have used Colloidal silver successfully for viral rhinitis in children vs. plain saline solutions.  Although there aren't any direct studies about colloidal silver and Covid-19, it has been shown to disrupt the enzymes that allow the virus to consume oxygen.  Basically, colloidal silver suffocates the virus. In my experience, colloidal silver has been effective for most of my patients with viral and bacteria infections.  You can take Colloidal silver orally or in a nasal spray form.

Olive Leaf Extract.

The compounds in Olive Leaf extract disrupt the virus's ability to infect you.  Also, your immune response will be improved when you take olive leaf extract. My favorite product is Orthomolecular's NK Stim, 2 capsules 2x/day for at least two weeks and I have used this my entire career for chronic(herpes, CMV and EBV) and acute (colds, flu) viral infections.

Astragalus.

Typically, you can use this for all colds and flu's. Astragalus has been shown to improve your immune systems response to viruses and does have some antiviral properties as well. This is most effective when you take it at the first sign of illness, in high doses. Viracid is my favorite product, taken 1-2 per hour for 8-10 hours the first day you have a symptom.

Elderberry.

Elderberry has been used for centuries for its antiviral properties.  It  renders the virus less capable of penetrating your cell membranes, thereby foiling its attempt to infect you. Also, elderberry stimulates your immune system to further prevent and fight the infection.

Eleutherococcus and Andrographis.

This traditional Chinese combination is known as Kan Jang.  It has been used for its antiviral properties against influenza.

Echinacea.

Echinacea is an effective agent to support your immune system against viruses. It is not appropriate fit you have an autoimmune disorder.

Zinc, vitamins C and A

All are necessary for a you to have a healthy immune system, however, the literature is very mixed as to whether either actually shorten the duration or aid the body directly during viral infections.

Vitamin D

High dose vitamin D has been shown to help your immune system respond to certain viruses.  I recommend 20,000IU per day for 3 days.

What to do when you get sick

1. Stay home. You need to stay home on the first 2-3 days of an illness, your body will have the best chance to recover quickly.
2. Sleep.  Sleep possesses our greatest healing power.  It allows your body to focus on the most important things for getting through any infection. Sleep allows your immune system to take over and do its thing.
3. Drink plenty of water or herbal tea.  You need to stay hydrated to help your body detoxify the toxins released from viral and bacterial infections
4. Allow the fever to exist.  Most bacteria and viruses exist best at body temperature.  Your immune system knows this and raises your body temperature to help fight the infection.  That being said, if you have a fever over 102, it  may be the sign of serious infection and you may want to see your doctor.
5. Lower your sugar intake by eating more vegetables and lean protein.  Healthy fats will also support your immune system.
6. Move a little.  If you feel well enough to take a walk, get moving!  Movement helps transport your immune cells to the infection.

This recent coronavirus outbreak will most likely go the way of SARS and MERS.  If you can stay healthy, this is your best defense against any virus.  Also, you need to decrease your sugar intake, eat more vegetables and berries to get more antioxidants; and lean proteins to make the enzymes you need to fight the virus. You need to get plenty of sleep. Also, a little exercise will mobilize your white blood cells. When you start to move, your immune cells can move around your body to get to all of your mucous membranes like your mouth and nose. For more information on supplements to supercharge your immune system, check out this blog. Reach out to me if you have any questions whatsoever. Get your free 20 minute phone consultation here.