The fantastic four natural anti-pathogens

Well what CAN we do, then?

I expect that question crossed the minds of a few HSI members after reading yesterday’s e-Alert “Stockpile Driver” (1/9/06). If Tamiflu won’t save us from the avian flu, is there anything that can?

The short answer: There’s no way to tell for sure. But if a pandemic does occur, there are several natural ways to provide your immune system with a sort of “security force” that might give you an edge.

In the e-Alert “Fantastic Four” (10/3/05), I told you about four pathogen destroyers recommended by HSI Panelist Jon Barron. (A pathogen is a disease-causing microorganism that may arrive in the form of bacterium, virus, fungus or parasite.)

• Garlic Excellent for fighting both bacterial and viral infections Effective against strep and staph bacteria Helps clear mucous from the lungs
• Grapefruit seed extract A natural antibiotic and a broad-spectrum anti-pathogen Helps fight influenza, colds, gastrointestinal disorders, diarrhea, food poisoning, parasites, candida yeast infections, oral infections, sore throat, strep throat, and sinusitis
• Olive leaf extract In one laboratory test an olive leaf extract effectively eliminated a wide range of organisms, including bacteria, viruses, parasites, and yeast/mold/fungus
• Oil of wild mountain oregano rich in minerals (calcium, magnesium, potassium, zinc, manganese) and vitamins C and A Antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, and antiparasitic Strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Note that, except for garlic, these anti-pathogens can produce harmful effects in the intestines by destroying beneficial bacteria, in which case a probiotic supplement would be advantageous.

For more information about these four anti-pathogens (as well as advice from HSI Panelist Allan Spreen, M.D., about mega-dosing with viamin C), you can find the e-Alert “Fantastic Four” on our web site at hsionline.com.