Cold and Flu Rescue Pack

There are different theories on what to take when you have a cold or the flu, here are some of Dr. Oz’s recommendations. You can supercharge your immune system with immunity boosters that include buckwheat honey, vitamin D, and astragalus.

Saline Nasal Spray

Airborne pathogens enter through your nose and mouth and begin to encroach on your body’s protective barriers. As they’re absorbed, they can spark an immune reaction and cause a cold or flu. The chances of getting sick are increased if your nasal passages are dry, a common occurrence in cold weather.

This simple remedy helps to flush out mucus and bacteria. Adding moisture to the nasal passages also helps to combat stuffiness, congestion and further infection. Look for a spray that has purified water and sodium chloride to get the purest, most effective spray.

To Reduce Fever Fighters use Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen 

 A fever is your body’s normal response to infection in the form of an increased body temperature. Fevers can cause additional symptoms like shivering, sweating or quickened breathing. If fever is over 100°F alternate between taking acetaminophen and ibuprofen. This combination of drugs targets different receptors and delivers a one-two punch to fevers. Switch back and forth between them every 4-6 hours until your fever is gone or you feel better; be sure not to exceed the maximum dosage for a 24-hour period, as indicated on the package. 

The Sore-Throat Remedy: Black Currant Lozenges

A sore throat is caused by inflammation; a sore throat from a cold will appear red and most likely be accompanied by a runny nose. Treat the nagging pain with black currant lozenges. 
Black currant contains gamma-linoleic acid, a fatty acid that soothes the throat and decreases inflammation. These lozenges are a smart alternative to taking menthol, which provides a cooling sensation but can actually break down your body’s good mucus and damage the throat over time.



  Cough Suppressants with Dextromethorphan or Expectorants with Guaifenesin

Identify if your cough is wet or dry. A dry cough is when your vocal cords slam together explosively, causing irritation and more coughing. This reflex can actually damage the throat, so you want to use a cough suppressant to stop the symptom entirely. Look for a bottle that says “DM” which stands for dextromethorphan and lasts for 12 hours. 

If your cough is accompanied by mucus, it’s classified as a wet cough. Look for a syrup or pill with an expectorant, which thins the mucus, clears your airways, and quiets the cough. Choose a product containing the ingredient guaifenesin. Take the recommended dosage with a glass of water to help get rid of congestion and lubricate the throat.

Boost your Immunity

Fighting colds and the flu starts with preventing them in the first place. Try these immunity-boosting tips to get your body’s defenses in tip-top shape for cold and flu season.

Buckwheat Honey

This winter, add buckwheat honey to your medicine cabinet. High in antioxidants and iron, this dark, rich honey is full of immunity-boosting properties. Try taking 1-2 teaspoons a day to get you through cold and flu season. You can enjoy buckwheat honey right off the spoon, or add it to a hot drink for a delicious winter treat.

Sickness Prevention Pack

These three supplements are a triple-power combo to help ward off illness:

• NAC - N-acetylcysteine is a potent antioxidant that can help you get over flu symptoms. Try a 250 mg NAC supplement each day with or without food.
• Astragalus This Chinese herb has been used for thousands of years to help stimulate the immune system and potentially ward off illness. Try adding 1 dropper of the extract in a cup of warm water each day. If you’re fighting an illness, you can take astragalus three times a day.
• Vitamin D3 - Studies have shown that taking vitamin D supplements may help prevent the flu. Try 1000 IU per day and 2000 IU per day during the darker winter months of winter, December through March.
•  Light exercise is good for your body. It can be immune-boosting.