Since ancient times, herbs have been used as natural treatments for various illnesses, including viral infections.
Due to their concentration of potent plant compounds, many herbs help fight viruses and are favored by practitioners of natural medicine. Here are some of Tara Mackey's favorites:
Sage
A popular member of the mint family, sage is an aromatic herb that has long been used in traditional medicine to treat viral infections. Sage is also known to help ease congestion and respiratory issues and is often used in homemade remedies to help with cold and flu symptoms.
The antiviral properties of sage are mostly attributed to compounds called safficinolide and sage one, which is found in the leaves and stem of the plant
In one study, sage extract significantly inhibited HIV activity by preventing the virus from entering target cells.
Tara recommends using sage sticks, plants, and teas. She also uses sage as an important ingredient in the Genetix Organic Detox Repair Serum.
Fennel
Fennel is a licorice-flavored plant that may fight certain viruses.
A test-tube study showed that fennel extract exhibited strong antiviral effects against parainfluenza. Fennel may also boost your immune system and decrease inflammation, which may likewise help combat viral infections.
Tara Mackey recommends this organic fennel tea.
Peppermint
Peppermint is known to have powerful antiviral qualities and commonly added to teas, extracts, and tinctures meant to naturally treat viral infections.
Its leaves and essential oils contain active components, including menthol and rosmarinic acid, which have antiviral and anti-inflammatory activity. In a test-tube study, peppermint exhibited potent antiviral activity against respiratory syncytial virus and significantly decreased levels of inflammatory compounds.
Tara recommends using peppermint drops, plants, and teas. She also uses peppermint as an important ingredient in Genetix Organic Activated Lip Lift.
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is a lemony plant that’s commonly used in teas and seasonings. It’s also celebrated for its medicinal qualities.
Lemon balm extract is a concentrated source of potent essential oils and plant compounds that have antiviral activity.
Test-tube research has shown that it has antiviral effects against many strains of influenza.
Tara recommends using lemon balm roll-ons, plants and teas. She also uses lemon (another anti-viral plant) as an important ingredient in the Genetix Organic Detox Repair Serum.
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About The Author
Tara Mackey @taraamackey
Tara Mackey is the founder and CEO of The Organic Life, a successful holistic and sustainable living platform, and is a widely recognized activist with a community of more than 1 million followers on her blog and social media. She founded the organic skincare company Genetix and is the best-selling author of Cured by Nature and WILD Habits. Mackey, who has a background in psychology and genetics, left medical school in 2011 to travel to California to explore natural healing, yoga and meditation. She’s been on a conscious quest to move humanity in a more sustainable, healthy, and holistic direction ever since. Tara’s been recognized with numerous awards and nominations for her activism and entrepreneurship by giants like O, The Oprah Magazine, Teen Vogue, Women’s Health, ABC, CBS, the United States Senate, and more. She resides in San Diego, California.
