Herbs for the Bird Flu

Bird or avian flu is characterized by symptoms like fever, sore throat and sore muscles. And although the bird flu does not usually pose a great threat to humans, it's still important to know how to treat the condition. Natural supplements are an option for fighting avian flu, and there are several herbs that will treat the disease's symptoms.

Lemon Balm

• Lemon balm has a citrus taste, and the balm helps remove the offending virus and thus the infection from the body. The herbal supplement is also ideal for children because of its pleasant taste, and can be mixed with tea as a bird-flu remedy.

Slippery Elm

• Slippery elm, which is the elm tree's interior bark, is ideal for treating conditions like sore throat and upset stomach, which are often associated with bird flu. The herb can also protect the mucus membranes to keep other harmful substances for entering the body, according to Dr. Karl Smith of University Chiropractic. Slippery elm can be found in most health food stores, and can be taken in both capsule and tea form.

Olive Leaf Extract

• The oil from the olive leaf can also be used to fight off the bird flu. The substance has antibacterial properties that will rid of the body of infection that may cause upset stomach, body pain and coughing. Olive leaf extract is usually taken in oil form by droplets, but can be found in gel capsules as well.

Holy Basil

• Holy basil is another herb that can rid the body of infection, and is effective for bird flu as well as swine flu. The herb is also anti-inflammatory, which means it will help to ease the swelling in the throat or joints associated with the flu. The herb can be taken in oil form or mixed with tea.

Sage

• Sage is effective in treating bird flu because it rids the body of infection, and has even been used as a substitute for conventional antibiotics in some instances. Sage can be taken in tea form, and the leaves can be steeped in boiling water to use for gargling. The herb may also help to relieve some of the discomfort of the bird flu, such as muscle aches or sore throat.