When are colds and the flu most contagious?
07 Mar 2012 Leave a Comment
in Flu & Cold Tags: cold, Common cold, contagious period for flu, Flu Symptoms, flu virus, Influenza
Myths about contagion are a regular part of life. Remember when AIDS could be transmitted by a handshake? Most fictions regarding how you can catch diseases aren’t quite that bizarre and off the mark — they usually sound pretty reasonable, which is how a lot of them get passed through generations as unquestioned truths. Many of us understand that when it comes to a cold or the flu, we’re most contagious before we start feeling sick; that by the time we’ve got a runny nose, sore throat and achy muscles, the damage to the people around us has already been done. In fact, many of us are completely wrong.
If you think about how a virus works, it makes sense that we’re most contagious when our symptoms are at their worst. Viruses like influenza and those that cause the common cold (there are a couple of hundred of them) have an incubation period once they get into your body. The virus gets into a group of healthy cells and then goes about requisitioning their survival apparatus from the inside. During this incubation period, while the virus is multiplying inside those infected cells, you have no symptoms — no sore throat, no runny nose, no achy muscles — and no virus spreading like wildfire throughout your body so that every drop of saliva or mucous you produce contains it. And that’s how a virus spreads from one person to another: By a healthy person coming into contact with the bodily fluids of an infected person, whether those fluids are airborne (as from a sneeze) or left on a doorknob by a sick person who just wiped his nose. So if you have no symptoms yet, it’s a lot less likely that you’re going to spread the virus to another person.
Once the cells that have been taken over by the virus start to die, that’s when all hell breaks loose. Here’s when you start having symptoms, and you start spreading it to everyone you know if you’re not careful. Some of those symptoms are caused by the virus itself (runny nose and sore throat, for example), and others are caused by your immune system (fever and exhaustion, for instance). When the virus breaks out of those dead cells and starts infecting tons of other cells throughout your body, your immune system recognizes that something is wrong and begins its counterattack. All of this can take days to happen. With the flu in particular, the time between exposure and the onset of symptoms is usually between one and four days.
So, when are you most contagious? Most experts agree that adults with a cold or the flu start being contagious about a day before they start experiencing symptoms. For the flu, the contagious period then lasts five to seven days into the illness. For children, the contagious period for the flu can last up to two weeks after they start feeling sick, even if they start feeling better before that. The contagious period for a cold lasts about three to four days into the illness. As a general rule, people with a cold are most contagious about three days after their initial exposure to the virus.
Source: Discovery Health
Tea for all your troubles!
28 Dec 2010 Leave a Comment
in Anxiety Relief, Baby & Child Health, Beauty and Skin Care, God's Green Herbs, Stress, tea Tags: cold, flu, Herb, HERBS FOR INFECTION, HERBS FOR KIDS, HERBS FOR THE FLU, Lemon Balm, Melissa officinalis, SICK, tea, thyme
We often forget just how powerful a cup of tea can be.
All around the world herbal teas are known to enhance our mood, induce sleep, relax our nerves, reduce inflammation and infection and treat a number of ailments.
If you are not familiar with the world of herbs – I invite you to read through the following information and be blessed.
Who knows you might be pleasantly surprised by what you discover.
In a previous article a few months ago I wrote about Thyme and all of its properties. Now I wanted to focus on some other incredible herbs. As with all things its best to use Organic herbs. I love using fresh herbs but because we do so many cups of tea per day we would need a whole farm of herbs to keep up with us. So I use Organic dried herbs. We cook and bathe with them. We also use a variety of herbs to treat sty’s, diaper rash, dandruff, colds, coughs and many other ailments. I grew up taking teas and tonics for all sorts of things.
I remember with joy and sadness the lovely aromatic teas my sweet daddy used to make for me. I must pause for a moment, to contemplate my dads smile. Oh how I miss him, it will be two years since his tragic death due to medical malpractice. I miss you dad – and I am trying to fill in your shoes!
OK, tears are done and we are back on track.
So yes we were talking about teas. It’s crazy but most people don’t even realize the healing power of herbs. For this article I will just list 5 herbs and what they are commonly used for. All of these herbs have been used in our home by everyone including our new baby.
Chamomile: antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, antispasmodic, aids in digestion and has a calming sedative effect. Makes a great wash for face and treatment for styes. Has worked greatly for our children at all ages.
Lemon Balm: nervine (means that it calms the nerves), tranquilizer, antispasmodic, fever reducer, antiviral. Good for colds, flu, colic in little ones, sleeplessness, flatulence. This herb is used almost daily in our home.
Rosemary: digestion, menstrual cramps, diarrhea, antispasmodic effect on upper intestine and gallbladder ducts, antiseptic, anti-inflamatory. Used as a wash for hair, diaper area, psoriasis, dandruff and lice prevention. We use in our home to disinfect and do vapor treatments during flu season.
Lemon Grass: used to treat depression, fight fever used locally over rheumatic joints and sprains as well as nervous and digestive disorders. Anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties, reduces flatulence promotes relaxing sleep. Organic essential oil of lemon grass is used to cleanse oily skin, and in aromatherapy as a relaxant. This herb is one of my favorites. I cook with it all the time and always add a pinch to my homemade herbal tea mixes.
Rose Petals: Fantastic gargle and tea for sore throat and mouth sores, relieves uterine issues and heavy periods or irregular periods. Assists with clearing up runny noses and fighting chest infections with congested bronchial tubes. Used to help sufferers of insomnia, depression and extreme fatigue. We use it in a mix with other herbs to bathe baby and our older children. I exfoliate with it several times a week for beautiful skin without using toxic washes and scrubs. We also make cinnamon and rose petal preserves, and oh is it good!
Hope you enjoyed this brief class on herbs. I will be discussing the benefits of other herbs in future articles. If you need help finding quality organic herbs at a great price email us at LaChicaOrganica@gmail.com and we will send you our latest Winter Catalog.
He causeth the grass to grow for the cattle, and herb for the service of man: that he may bring forth food out of the earth… Psalms 104:14
Blessings,
La Chica Organica
Related Articles
- Herbal Tea for Colds, Throat Irritation and Infection (lachicaorganica.wordpress.com)
- Herbal Tinctures to help you during Flu Season (lachicaorganica.wordpress.com)
- How do I make a tea with organic loose herbs and what on earth is a Decoction? (lachicaorganica.wordpress.com)
- Cold and Flu Cocktails/Remedies – What you Should Have on Hand! (lachicaorganica.wordpress.com)
Cold and Flu Cocktails/Remedies – What you Should Have on Hand!
06 Oct 2010 6 Comments
in Allergies and Asthma, Baby & Child Health, Flu & Cold, God's Green Herbs, Green Living, organic food, Preggo Mama, Stress, tea, vitamin d, Vitamins & Supplements Tags: balm, cold, Colostrum, Echinacea., flu, garlic, green, health, Herb, homeopathic, Immune system, immunity, immunity boosting herbs, Influenza, Joe Shmoe, Lemon Balm, Melissa officinalis, natural cures, olive, organic herbs, Oscillo, Oscillococcinum, Smoothie, thyme, tincture, Vodka, winter
Is there a cold or flu virus lurking around the corner? Did you just go to the store and open up the refrigerated section then a few minutes later rub your eyes?
It’s amazing how easily we are exposed to nasty viruses and bacteria. All it takes is for Joe Shmoe to sneeze and cough right on the handles of the store refrigerators and then you come strolling along completely unaware that the door handles are covered in yuck. You open them, get your goods and go on your merry way. A few minutes later you robotically rub your eyes or nose and whala – the connection is made. Those nasty germs are on their way into your body.
First let me lovingly say that if you are a Joe Shmoe, please do us all a favor and COVER YOUR MOUTH when you cough or sneeze. Carry a pack of tissues with you so you can use and discard as needed. Also be sure to cleanse hands after each explosion of germs. It’s very irresponsible and inconsiderate to know that you’re sick and sneeze and cough all over the place without covering up and washing your hands afterward. You are promoting sickness in the community of pregnant moms, babies, young adults, parents, the elderly and even pets.
So what are some things you can do to reduce your chance of getting sick and or help you if you do get sick? What I am going to say might shock you but it’s often overlooked.
SLEEP.
Yes, if and when your body is under attack you must sleep. Make sure you are getting at least 7 hours of un-interrupted sleep at night although 9 hours is ideal especially when the body is under stress. Your body can survive for days and days without food but your organs can start to shut down after just 5 days without sleep. So please get your rest if you can, it’s very important. Another important factor is water intake. Your body needs water at least 8 to 10 glasses a day in order to function properly. Your brain alone is composed of over 75% water. Not to mention the rest of your body consists of about 60% water.
Just think of a raisin all shriveled up. That could be your brain or your lungs you know. It’s actually been studied that people with asthma that drink more water and stay hydrated were found to have less attacks. So hydration with good old water is very important at all times.
Now to the other stuff.
Before I start giving you what I use let me make it clear that if you want to be healthy you have to act like your trying to get healthy. Yes, organic herbs and supplements can help a body under attack but you must deal with the problem from the inside out and not simply treat a symptom. If you eat a diet mainly of cooked foods and do not take additional enzymes, probiotics and minerals you are going to run your body down and in turn have a weakened immune system that will fall prey to any and every viral or bacterial infection floating in the air. A healthy diet is the key to maintaining a strong immune system.
OK, now that I got that out of the way, lets talk about my health cocktails. I have all kinds of cocktails: bath cocktails, breakfast cocktails, immunity cocktails, you name it I’ve got it.
- Some of the foods, ingredients & herbs I use in my emergency cold and flu cocktails are: Organic Olive Leaf , Organic Lemon Balm, Organic Ginger, Organic Garlic, Organic Thyme, Greens and Grasses in smoothies, Colostrum, Organic Herbal Baths, Organic Powdered Rose hips (Vitamin C), vitamin D3, herbal salts, Organic Cayenne Powder, Organic herbal antiviral antibacterial tinctures & glycerites.
- Want to boost immunity then do a smoothie with Organic Greens. We drink one every morning for breakfast and add in powdered Colostrum and powdered Rose hips. La Chica Organica has a fantastic blend of Greens/Grasses available, please email me for product information and pricing.
- Making pasta be sure to crush lots of fresh garlic. If you have a mortar and pestle make a paste with a pinch of Cayenne and toss it over your cooked pasta with some olive oil. Garlic is a fantastic antiviral and anti-inflammatory herb. Cayenne has been used for years as a nasal decongestant and has been used for centuries to treat asthma, fevers, sore throats, respiratory infections, and digestive problems.
- Take a bath in Thyme or Mama’s Cold & Flu Rescue bath that helps when the body is fighting a cold or flu. Be sure to check out a 2 part audio teaching I did on bathing with Thyme, here.
- Got the stuffy’s and congested? I enjoy using an awesome Organic balm that I make called Mariana’s Winter Balm. It’s gentle but effective for rubbing on a congested chest and feet. I have 3 samples to give away for anyone interested. Please post a comment below by 8pm Friday October 8th 2010. The first 3 comments will be contacted via email and will be mailed a sample within the next 2 weeks. I just ask that you cover $3.99 for packaging and shipping costs. This balm will be available for purchase soon.
- Another fantastic food to keep on hand is Organic Unrefined Coconut Oil. Coconut Oil does not contain Trans-Fats, is Gluten-Free, Non-Toxic, Hypoallergenic, and contains Antibacterial, Antiviral, Antifungal, and Anti-parasitic healing properties. Coconut oil is a fantastic way to aid and support your overall Immune System functions.
If you would like a 10 ounce container of La Chica Organica’s Coconut Oil you can order by emailing me at LaChicaOrganica@gmail.com. Each container is at an affordable price of just $4. I add a teaspoon to my smoothies 2 times a day. It’s so yummy.
- I also have found that drinking a tea several times a day with 1 or more of my immunity boosting herbs is a wonderful way to stay healthy and aid the body during sickness. But if teas are not your thing or you simply don’t have time you might consider making a tincture like the one in the picture below. A tincture is a liquid extract of an herb. It is made by soaking herbs in a drinkable alcohol. Tinctures are super concentrated herbal concoctions. You only need a few drops several times a day. Tinctures work because they are made in a base of alcohol like Vodka or Brandy which breaks down the herbs and pulls out the medicinal qualities.
You can make these with little to no difficulty and have enough bottles on hand to last you all year for just a fraction of the cost for what you pay for just one 2 ounce bottle at the health food store.
I have created a step by step instructional guide with this kit that comes with 2 bags of organic herbs, 2 glass tincture bottles, labels and two organic cotton muslin bags for straining. The only thing you will have to purchase is your vodka or Brandy. You will also need a jar with a lid for steeping the herbs and a jar with lid to store any extra tincture. I find that re-cycling pasta sauce jars works wonderfully.
Grab this kit while it lasts as it is specially priced for winter and will go quickly. Click here to order
Choose from:
Immunity Rescue – Intense immunity booster with over 8 organic herbs possessing anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties.$25
Help my Tummy – fantastic blend or organic herbs that help with stomach upset, gas and indigestion. $25
Nighty Night – A mixture of organic herbs to help you unwind and relax. $25
AstraE (Astragalus & Echinacea) – Immunity booster and viral infection fighter. $25
Fever Assist – made with herbs that promote perspiration which in turn cools the body down resulting in a lowering of fever. $25
**You can also purchase additional tincture bottles for $3 each or four tincture bottles for $11** Click here to order
- If you are really miserable with a flu you can take homeopathic meds which are a fabulous alternative to pharmacy drugs. We love Oscillococcinum. Oscillococcinum (Oscillo®), one of the world’s most popular natural flu medicines, it can reduce the duration and severity of flu-like symptoms when taken at the onset of symptoms. Oscillo works without causing side effects, does not interfere with other medications, and is safe for both children (older than 2 years of age) and adults. For $2 coupons you can use at your pharmacy or grocery store click here
- Clinical studies show that Oscillo reduces the severity and duration of flu symptoms
- Great taste and convenient to take
- No side effects or interactions with other medications
- Good for everyone 2 years of age and older
- Weekly consumption of Vitamin D3 is very important during cold a flu season. You can read about which vitamin D3 to take by clicking here.
- One last thing to remember is that green is good. The more green you consume the better your overall health will be.
That’s all for now.
Signing Off! La Chica Organica
May the Green be with You™
Health Products: Hot Hot Hot List of 3 things you should know about
29 Jun 2010 Leave a Comment
in Acid Reflux, Baby & Child Health, Vitamins & Supplements Tags: allergies, aloe, aloe vera extract, Anti-Inflamatory, bacteria, bowel, Bowell distress, cold, colon, ear infections, GERD, immune, Liver Support, nasal, probiotic, skin problems, wash, Xylitol
When you’re a parent that’s interested in natural alternatives and supplements its always good to have some unbiased reviews of products before you purchase them. So being that I have created my own supplements and health products database with my own reviews I wanted to share 3 things with you that our family has found to be very helpful.
These are my own reviews and just for the record; La Chica Organica does not receive any monetary compensation for reviewing these products. I review and recommend only those products I know to work and that our family has used over the years. I also make it a point to research the manufacturers and ensure they have good manufacturing principles amongst other things.
So without further adieu here is my hot 3 list:
New Chapter’s Probiotic Colon Live Probiotics for Healthy Bowel Function. Probiotic Colon’s capsules contain Fermented Soy and are Naturally Gluten Free. Probiotics with a Purpose™ Probiotic Colon ™ contains ten strains of live probiotics cultured together on a non-dairy food medium containing growth-stimulating prebiotic whole foods: organic okra, organic spinach, organic chlorella, organic blueberry, organic cumin, and organic ginger.
We all love this product and have been using it for years. Probiotics according to Dr. Weil are products containing the helpful bacteria that normally inhabit the human digestive tract. In the intestinal tract, these beneficial microbes help complete the digestive process, and some actually produce vitamins. There’s even evidence that without them, the immune system can’t work properly, lessening resistance to infection. At home we take this probiotic on a daily basis as it helps with digestion, indigestion, gas, and proper bowel function. It has to be kept in the fridge and can be used by children just give them half the adult dose.
Aloe Gold Whole Leaf Aloe Vera Juice Concentrate - I can’t say enough about this product. It was a key part of healing my husbands GERD and other digestive issues. Benefits include help with digestion and absorption when taken before meals, energy, Immune System Support, Anti-Inflamatory support for the tissues and joints, Allergies, Liver Support, Bowell distress, skin. This is another product that our entire family uses with success. I have used it on more than one occasion when dealing with severe indigestion and bloating.
Xlear Nasal Wash – This is another product I can’t say enough about. Everyone from baby to daddy uses this wash. Why it’s so effective in my opinion is because its key ingredient is Xylitol, a natural carbohydrate which occurs freely in certain plant parts. Studies indicate that xylitol inhibits the growth of bacteria that often cause ear infections in children hence its anti-bacterial properties. We use this all throughout the year alongside our regular salt water nasal wash. I have found these drops for your nose to kill the bacteria that causes most infections and colds and I use this several times a day when we are dealing with a bacterial infection and during cold season.
In the future I will be adding more hot review items to help you in your journey of finding good wholesome products.
Herbal Remedies: Bathing with herbs for relief of cold and flu symptoms
18 Jun 2010 Leave a Comment
in Baby & Child Health, God's Green Herbs Tags: baby cold bath, baby flu bath, bath, bath for flu, cold, congestion, cough, flu, herbal baby bath, herbs, oils, rosemary oil, skin
If you have recently had a bad cold or flu you know how awful your body aches and your nose gets stuffed up. How about headaches, back pain, cough and chest congestion due to the flu?
For a fantastic article on some easy herbal fixes check out our recent article entitled Cold and Flu Cocktails/Remedies – What you Should Have on Hand!
My husband came down with a bad flu and he was hurting. For two days I kept pestering him to take an herbal bath and he refused. Finally he gave in and I made him one because I know that when I am suffering with a cold or a flu virus the best thing I can do for my body is soak in a huge cup of tea.
Let me just say that hubby was miserable. His body ached and he had a badly stuffed up nose in addition to a hacking cough and terrible back pain and joint discomfort.
So I filled up a 4 quart pot with water then added 1 cup of eucalyptus, 1 Cup of Thyme, 1/4 cup of lavender, 3/4 cup of yarrow flowers and a few teaspoons of lemon peels. I let it boil for 3 minutes then steep for 15. Poured the strained mixture into a bathtub half full of water along with 4 ounces of Himalayan Pink Salt. I also added 5 drops of Organic Lemon and Rosemary Essential Oils.
After 45 minutes in the bath he said he could not believe how his nasal cavities had cleared up and his body aches were gone in addition to the throbbing headache. By the next day he did the bath again and most of his symptoms were gone. We continued the bath for several days.
I have been researching and have documented the effects of herbal baths for years and have concluded that the reason why herbals baths work is because our skin is the largest organ on our body. Everything we put on it be it toxic or non toxic is absorbed by our skin and it will affect our overall well-being positively or negatively.
Next time you’re feeling under the weather try an Herbal bath. Oh and you can also use the herbs you strained out again for a second bath.
I take herbal baths with our baby almost every day now that he is teething and gets congested on and off; it really helps him get rid of some of the nasal congestion and works to help his overall discomfort.
Be sure to check out our herbal/Green Store where we have a variety of herbal baths available including our newest one for babies called “I’m an Organic Baby Bath™”
For ordering information please email us at LaChicaOrganica@gmail.com
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