Cold and flu season can really get the best of us if we don't take care of ourselves. Sometimes, though, even those with a strong immune system are going to get sick too. Here are some herbs and vitamins that are commonly used during this time of year and what they might do for you.

No matter what you are taking, it is always best to spread the amount out over the course of the day. Take a little every couple of hours rather than a bunch 2 or 3 times a day.

Vitamin C - Vitamin C helps lessen the symptoms and shorten the duration of a cold by enhancing the immune system. It will increase white blood count and antibody response. Vitamin C also works as a natural decongestant. The best recommended dose of Vitamin C is bowel tolerance. This means take enough Vitamin C to cause minor diarrhea and then take 80% of that amount daily. This amount will increase during times of immune or physical stress.

Zinc - Zinc is another common supplement used during a cold. Zinc is best taken at the initial onset of a cold and as a lozenge that will dissolve in your mouth. It appears as though zinc binds to the virus preventing it from affecting the body. Do not exceed 100mg of zinc per day as this may depress rather than strengthen the immune system.

Antioxidants - Similar to how Vitamin C works, other antioxidants can be beneficial to helping your body fight a cold or flu.

Probiotics - Probiotics have been used to treat stomach flu but now research is showing that they may also be beneficial for respiratory colds. Probiotics support bowel health, critical during any sort of illness as well as the immune system as a whole. Probiotics are necessary for three reasons. Plenty of probiotics leaves no room for bad bacteria to invade. Probiotics help the body flush toxins. Also, probiotics are necessary for the production of certain vitamins. Probiotics are most effective when taken on an empty stomach.

Echinacea - This common herb helps to fight infection by stimulating white blood cells (the fighter cells) and fighting inflammation. It may be effective against allergies, colds, flu and other infections illnesses. Echinacea is best used in dose of 200 mg 5 to 6 times a day. It is not recommended for overall immune boosting as the body may become somewhat immune to it's effects.

Fenugreek - This herb is beneficial for helping to reduce fevers and for sinus congestion by reducing mucous levels.

Garlic - Garlic is a fantastic immune booster making it an effective herb for preventing and infection. Garlic oil or garlic cloves are also effective against ear infections when placed directly into the ear 4 to 5 times daily and covered with a warm compress for 5 to 10 minutes. For colds and flu take 400mg 5 to 6 times daily. Safe for long term use.

Ginger - For stomach flu, ginger helps fight nausea by reducing stomach spasms.

Goldenseal - Goldenseal works by strengthening the immune system. It is best used for respiratory illnesses and in combination or alternated with Echinacea. For colds and flu take 125 mg 5 to 6 times a day. For nausea and vomiting take 125 mg every four hours as needed. Goldenseal should not be used long term or by pregnant/nursing mothers or those with high blood pressure.

Lobelia - Liquid lobelia can be taken in very small doses placed on the tongue to help stop a coughing fit. It can also be rubbed on the chest to open up the lungs.

Nettle - Also called stinging nettle, this herb is a good expectorant. It is beneficial for colds and flu where there is a lot of excess mucous.

Olive Leaf - Olive leaf fights bacteria and viruses making it a good choice to prevent colds and flu from starting. It is also effective once you have gotten sick. Use 800 mg 4 to 5 times a day.

There are many more herbs that may be beneficial for colds and flu. If one doesn't seem to work for you over the course of a few different illnesses, try another.

It is always best to begin taking something at the very first sign of an infection, perhaps before you are even certain you are getting something. Doing so dramatically increases the effectiveness of any remedies you may be considering. If you are still uncertain of what might work for you, seek out assistance from someone that has a background in natural health. Of course, whatever you decide, be sure to discuss it with a health care practitioner in case of interactions that may occur.

Nicole Bandes is a Natural Health Coach whose passion is educating individuals about natural alternatives available to them. Nicole publishes a weekly column of health tips at http://www.naturemadeez.com

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