Beating the Stress Factor Could Aid Swine Flu Recovery

Written by Deborah Grant Saturday, 19 September 2009 16:47

People suffering from long-term stress are being reminded of its negative effect on the immune system and are being urged to find ways of combating stress to help the body fight viruses like Swine Flu. Leading London Medical Herbalist Deborah Grant has seen a rise in the number of patients coming to her at The Hale Clinic with poor immune function, which has resulted in recurrent infections.

She found that underneath the surface symptoms, many were actually suffering from long-term stress and it was the effect of stress on the body that was resulting in illness. “Stress has a hugely negative impact on a person’s immune system. Think about how many times you have gone down with an infection after a period of stress. When the body is helped to deal with the effect that stress has on it, and this includes restoring adrenal function, immune function is invariably improved,” explains Grant.

According to Grant, stress can manifest itself in a number of ways including insomnia, anxiety, IBS, depression, fatigue, erectile dysfunction, acid reflux, loss of libido, skin problems; hormone imbalance, which can lead to infertility and menstrual problems.

There are a number of herbal medicines known to safely help restore adrenal function, rebalance hormones, lift depression, resolve acid reflux, increase energy, help with sleep, effectively treat IBS and help stress-related erectile dysfunction and loss of libido.

“Many herbal remedies can be bought in high-street stores but it is always better to get a herbal prescription, which is tailored to meet each patient’s unique needs. This approach gets the best results, especially when several body systems are involved after long-term stress,” advises Grant.

But Grant is quick to point out that Herbal Medicine is not a cure for Swine Flu.

“Herbal Medicine cannot treat Swine Flu and if you are concerned that you may have the virus, you should always contact the National Pandemic Flu Helpline for advice and treatment. However, Herbal Medicines, which work to improve the body’s immune system, can help keep your natural defenses in top shape so that when you are exposed to a virus like Swine Flu, you give your body the best possible chance of fighting back,” says Grant.

Read article on boosting immunity.

Read article on reducing stress levels.