Herb
Treatment Support
antiviral
Application
capsule, whole cloves in food
Viral infection
Christopher Hobbs:
“Non-specific viral infections can mimic a number of other diseases. Common viruses that are often mentioned are Epstein-Barr virus, cytomegalovirus, and herpes viruses, among others. Symptoms include a feeling of light-headedness, body aches, fatigue, disorientation, and nausea.”
Etiologic Factors:
- Virus Type: Different viruses (e.g., influenza, common cold, COVID-19) can cause various symptoms.
- Mode of Transmission: Viruses spread through droplets (coughing, sneezing), contaminated surfaces, or direct contact.
- Immune System Status: A weakened immune system (due to age, underlying conditions, or medications) increases susceptibility.
- Environmental Factors: Poor hygiene, overcrowded places, and seasonal changes can facilitate transmission.
Factors to Seek Professional Help:
- Severe Symptoms: Difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, high fever (above 102°F / 39°C), or persistent vomiting.
- Risk Groups: Infants, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with chronic diseases (e.g., diabetes, heart conditions) should seek help earlier.
- Prolonged Illness: If symptoms worsen after a few days or last longer than expected (e.g., more than 7-10 days for mild illnesses).
Treatment Plan for Viral infection
When to Treat at Home with Herbs:
- Mild Symptoms: Such as a mild cold or low-grade fever that doesn’t worsen.
- Supportive Treatment: Herbs like echinacea (Echinacea spp.), ginger (Zingiber officinale), garlic (Allium sativum), and honey may help boost immunity, soothe the throat, and relieve mild congestion.
- Hydration & Rest: Often the best remedy alongside herbal teas for soothing symptoms like sore throat or mild cough.
It’s important to use herbal treatments as supportive care and to monitor symptoms closely for any worsening or complications. Always consult a healthcare provider if unsure.
Christopher Hobbs:
“Herbal support includes immune stimulants including echinacea (Echinacea spp.) and wild indigo (Baptisia tinctoria); antiviral herbs such as St. John’s wort (Hypericum perforatum), garlic (Allium sativum), and lemon balm (Melissa officinalis); and a course of tonics for the blood system—alfalfa (Medicago sativa), rehmannia (Rehmannia glutinosa), and jujube (Zizyphus jujuba); adrenal system—eleuthero (Eleutherococcus senticosus), licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra), and wild oats (Avena sativa, A. fatua); and immune system—ligustrum (Ligustrum lucidum), astragalus (Astragalus membranaceus), and reishi (Ganoderma lucidum) for up to 9 months or longer.”
Herbal Remedies for Viral infection
Herb
Treatment Support
Application
Herb
Treatment Support
antiviral
Application
tincture, tablet, capsule
Herb
Treatment Support
antiviral
Application
capsule, decoction, tincture
Herb
Treatment Support
antiviral
Application
extract in capsules, tablets
Herb
Treatment Support
antiviral
Application
tincture, tablet, capsule
Herb
Treatment Support
immune stimulant
Application
tincture, capsule
Related Viral infection conditions
Additional Ailment
Herb
Application
No additional ailments found.
The information given here is designed to help you make informed choices about your health. The information is drawn from numerous sources—both traditional medicine practice, from the clinical experience of many herbalists currently practicing, and supported by decades of scientific research from the author. The research most consulted includes human clinical trials that help to determine the most effective and safe herbs for various needs, the best doses, and types of preparations.
The information offered in this database is not intended as a substitute for any that may have been prescribed by your health practitioner or physician.
