There is a great deal of concern over the H1N1 virus. There is also much controversy over the vaccinations for H1N1. How do you weed through the information and make an informed decision? The following information and links provide some highlights and preparedness options.
The H1N1 virus is an extremely virulent strain. Cytokine release from tissue macrophages are thought to be the trigger for the excessive cytokine cascade or storm common in H1N1. This over reaction of the body's immune system is believed to be more excessive in those with strong immune systems and those with previous respiratory conditions. The cause of death from H1N1 can be due to a cytokine storm or cascade which is an over reaction of the body's immune system that fills the lungs with fluid. People with pre-existing lung conditions (eg. asthma) may be at greater risk of complications from H1N1.
Besides the flu prevention recommendations and remedies (including homeopathic remedies, oil of oregano) listed in the links below there are some options to help the body stop the excessive cytokine cascade or storm:
Curcumin (95% from tumeric) taken with pepper (eg. Bioperine) is one of these. The recommendation to stop the excessive cytokine cascade is 4- 900mg capsules of curcumin per day. There are contraindications to taking curcumin so check with a health provider or pharmacist before starting.
Chinese research has shown the herb dan shen (salvia miltiorrhiza) also reduces the cytokine response.
Echinacea and honey apparently increase the cytokine response so would not be recommended to stop an excessive cytokine storm or response. There may be other herbs and products traditionally used to boost the immune system which actually will interfere with stopping of the excessive cytokine storm or cascade common to H1N1, so check with a qualified health professional before starting or to determine safety of continuing with supplements.
http://www.healthatyourdoorstep.com/catalog/item/2832653/6395759.htm
http://www.wholehealthnow.com/homeopathy_info/weblinks3.html
http://hubpages.com/hub/Homeopathic-Influenza-Remedy---Oscillococcinum
http://www.wholehealthnow.com/homeopathy_pro/wt10.html
http://www.naturalnews.com/026839_homeopathy_homeopathic_doctors.html
Oil of Oregano http://www.hsvvoice.com/news/2009/0506/front_page/003.html
The threat of a global pandemic and evolving homeopathy treatment strategy
- Dr. Manish Bhatia
Dr Manish Bhatia is an eminent Homeopath who owns the Hpathy.com Homeopathic Forum.
http://www.hpathy.com/diseases/Swine-flu-symptoms-treatment.asp
http://www.homeopathyandmore.com/forum/viewtopic.php?t=3011&highlight=h1n1
Check with your regular health care professional before booking an appointment or using any of the information provided on this website, at retreats, in handouts or during a consultation/session. There may be contraindications due to age, health conditions, medications, etc.