Some natural products have proven effective against viral infections, such as the flu. Doctor Jimmy Mohammed advises a few.
Difficult to get through the flu this winter. For several weeks – and more particularly since the Christmas holidays – the epidemic has affected the whole of France. Fortunately, there are natural methods to limit symptoms. Doctor Jimmy Mohammed, presenter of Health Magazine on France 5, recalled their benefits in a video published on his Instagram account.
First anti-flu product, propolis. This hive product is particularly renowned for its anti-viral and anti-inflammatory properties. “It’s effective, it’s validated by science,” even says Doctor Jimmy Mohammed. “Numerous in vitro, in vivo and clinical studies have highlighted the wide range of antiviral activities that several types of propolis share,” wrote the authors of a study published in 2021.
In addition to its renowned virtues, propolis has the advantage of existing in several forms: in chewable bars, which will “calm inflammation of the throat and help you fight viral infection”, according to the Dr Mohammed, in drops of pure extract or in capsules, “to take every day during the entire period when you are ill and even to prevent viral infections”, recommends the doctor.
Another product of the hive, honey is also very famous for its benefits against winter ailments, particularly sore throats. A study published in 2020 even concluded that “honey was superior to usual care for improving the symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections.” For Dr Jimmy Mohammed, honey is therefore also one of the effective natural methods in case of flu: it is “also validated (by science) for anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial properties”, he specifies.
Another natural method “also validated by science” according to Dr Mohammed and above all much less known to the general public: echinacea. This plant is considered to stimulate the immune system, and is especially known for its benefits against colds. According to Dr Jimmy Mohammed, echinacea can reduce “the number of days you are sick”, and would also help prevent a viral infection like the flu. It can be consumed in the form of capsules, leaves or mother tincture.
Finally, Dr Jimmy Mohammed recommends ravintsara, to be consumed in herbal teas “or by taking the essential oil that we will mix with a little honey”, he recommends. Small warning all the same, do not hesitate to seek advice from your pharmacist or doctor to ensure that you have no contraindications to consuming these products and check the dosage. Because even if they are natural, there are risks.