It seems to be at the top of many peoples minds these days, and no wonder with all the media coverage and differing opinions on whether or not to vaccinate. I have had many inquiries that requested a post that provides more in-depth information on the options available for prevention and treatment of the H1N1 virus. Below I have posted a compilation of recent articles and blog posts on the subject.
Pregnancy and the H1N1 Flu Virus
Hospitals Put Counter-Pressure on Doulas During Flu Season
The Lancet Commentary: Kids Should Skip the Seasonal Flu Vaccine
Flu Shot in Pregnancy Protects Baby
Depressed Pregnant Women Could Be At Higher Risk For Severe Response to Flu Infection
Should Pregnant Women Get H1N1 Vaccine?
New Poll Shows Pregnant Women Concerned About H1N1 Flu but Uncertain About Getting the Vaccine
My previous blogs – Elderberry Prevents Swine Flu and Swine Flu Prevention and Treatment with Vitamin D and Herbal Medicine
Lack of Paid Sick Days Helps Spread Swine Flu
Whatever your choice may be, to vaccinate or not, you can strengthen your immune system by taking efforts to reduce stress, sleep well, cut down or out any sugar in your diet, wash your hands regularly, try to avoid those who are ill and stay home if you become sick. Taking probiotics, a vitamin D supplement and elderberry syrup to boost your defenses against this virus is appropriate for most individuals, and safe even for those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. I have modified a basic elderberry syrup recipe below to include Star Anise (which is used to make the yummy cure-all Pho soup as well as the Rx TamiFlu).
Elderberry & Star Anise Syrup Recipe
1/4 cup dried star anise
3/4 cup dried elderberries
1/4 cup rose hips
1 vanilla bean (optional)
4 cups water
2 cups raw local honey
2 tablespoons brandy (optional)
1. Simmer water and herbs for 30-45 minuets.
2. Drain off plant material and return liquid (decoction) back to the stove, reduce until you have 2 cups remaining, turn off heat and stir in honey and brandy if desired.
3. Bottle in glass container and store. Keeps in the refrigerator for 2-3 months.
4. A tablespoon a day as preventative and more frequently at first sign of symptoms.
Besides this yummy syrup,other items that it would be smart to have on hand include:
*fixings for pho, chicken noodle or miso soup
* epsom salts and apple cider vinegar for the bath to ease muscle aches
* eucalyptus radiata and ravensara essential oils for inhalation & baths
*electrolyte liquids and tea fixings including a fresh ginger root
* lots of garlic for cooking
* and whatever comfort items, movies, books you may need
1 response so far ↓
tricia // November 8, 2009 at 2:37 pm |
hi lynn -
i have a pregnant friend, who spent two hours on the phone trying to find a mercury free vaccine. she never found one. also, she noted that the mercury ban on pregnant woman vaccines was lifted before the h1n1 vaccine was mass produced. can you solidify this info? might make for an interesting blog!! hope you are well. xoxo