We are exposed to various strains of influenza virus all year, but fall and winter bring about conditions that make us more susceptible. Temperatures begin to drop and people tend to stay inside with windows closed. Using heaters dries the air and can cause irritation of the mucous-lined passageways of the upper respiratory tract, which is where most influenza viruses attack. Days get shorter and less exposure to sunlight can cause a drop in the production of Vitamin D in our bodies, which is important to our immune system. School starts and holiday shopping begins, bringing people into crowded situations where viruses can easily spread.

Many strains of influenza virus exist, but they are generally grouped into types A, B, and C. A is the most common and is the type that can undergo sudden genetic mutation and cause serious pandemics. B is not as prevalent and usually less severe, and C causes only mild illness. More detailed information about current viral threats can be found at the Center for Disease Control website.

Virus with RNA inside

Infection begins when tiny virus particles covered with rod-like structures that act like keys, attach to the surface of cells in our mucous membranes. If the key fits, the virus passes through the cell wall, releases its genetic material inside our cell and hijacks the machinery of our nucleus to create more viruses. Vaccinations are developed each year to introduce our bodies to likely viral visitors before they arrive, giving our immune systems a chance to create antibodies and "batten down the hatches", so to speak.

Many people, however, have questioned the safety of vaccines that utilize Thimerasol, a mercury-containing organic compound added as a preservative. A connection between the occurance of autism and exposure to Thimerasol has been drawn by some medical practitioners. In addition, vaccines made with live virus can pose a very small risk of actually infecting rather than protecting a recipient. For these reasons, alternative methods of averting viral infection have attracted interest, and scientific study and validation is increasing in this area. Chinese and other forms of traditional medicine have long employed various herbs to fight viral infections. The antiviral properties of herbs may provide a more natural, and in some cases, safer approach to strengthening our body's immune response.    

Many herbs contain bioactive compounds that can intercept and interfere with specific steps of the process by which viruses replicate themselves. Herbs can inhibit the attachment of viruses to the walls of our cells, or interfere with the transcription of the virus' genetic material or the synthesis of important structural proteins. Herbs can also support our natural immune system with antioxidant power and clean house by stimulating phagocytosis. BioPure Healing Products offers a number of tinctures and extracts with powerful antiviral and antibacterial properties that can be very helpful anytime of year, but especially now as we move into flu season.

Our customers come up with innovative and delicious ways to use our products. Here is a recipe for an invigorating smoothie that will make your immune system, your mood, and your tastebuds smile!

One organic apple with the peel left on