Vitamins for the Common Cold and Flu

Vitamins for the Common Cold and flu viruses are those that strengthen the immune system -- the antioxidants that fight off free radicals.

Cold and flu are both caused by different types of viral infections. The reason for taking daily vitamins, especially vitamin C, is to keep your immune system at optimum health for fighting off the viruses.

There is no 'cure' for the common cold or the various strains of flu.

In the case of common colds and flus, prevention really is the best medicine.

In addition to keeping your immune sytem healthy with daily vitamins, boosting your body's defence mechanisms at the first sign of cold or flu symptoms can help reduce the severity and duration of the bugs.

use a tissue when sneezing

Glutathione is a natural and powerful anti-oxidant that can help prevent and treat the common cold. Glutathione levels are apparently raised when a NAC (N-acetylcysteine) is taken in supplements.

Echinacea, an herb, especially when combined with Vitamin C, is a very popular and trustworthy defence booster. Vitamin C also acts as natural antihistamine, reducing nasal and chest congestion and drying up runny eyes.

Certain strains of acidohilis and probiotics help the digestive and immune system by producing friendly bacteria that stimulates illness-fighting immune substances. A good dose of low-fat unsweetened yogurt on a daily basis may do the trick.

Zinc Lozenges have been known to help reduce the days that one suffers from the symptoms of a common cold.

Andrographis is a good companion to have during cold and flu season. If you have symptoms that include fever, sore throat, muscle pain, headaches, cough and stuffy nose, then this herb could help reduce all these cold and flu symptoms.

Oregano Oil is getting increased notice on the stage of cold and flu defenders in natural health magazines. Oregano Oil apparently has antioxidiant and anti-viral properties, among many others, that can help boost your immune system and fight off bugs during cold and flu season.

In addition to keeping your immune system strong and healthy with a healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals, especially the antioxidants, let's not forget the other things Mom always told us:

  • Wash Your Hands — frequently!

  • Cover Your Mouth! When you cough or sneeze, use a tissue, and if one isn't available, turn away from people around you and cough or sneeze into your sleeve.

  • Get Lots of Liquids — especially water! At least 8 eight-ounce glasses of water on a usual day, and more when you're under the weather to flush out the germs and keep yourself well-hydrated (especially your mouth and nasal linings).

  • Get Lots of Rest, don't burn the candle at both ends, and stop when you need to — especially through the busy bustle of the holiday seasons.

  • Take Your Daily Vitamins!

Just think: if you do your bit to reduce your chances of getting cold or flu, and take good care of yourself even if you get the slightest hint of a common cold coming on, you'll be helping reduce the chance that others will get it from you.


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