Peace of Mind for Coronavirus: Herbal Support for Viral Infections
With the recent news about COVID-19 (a novel type of coronavirus) we’ve had a number of questions about how herbs can help. To help you choose the right herbs to support you and your family during this viral outbreak, we’ve put together a list of our top supportive and preventative herbs.
This list of herbs and recommendations is far from complete. For additional information, check out Herbal Antivirals: Natural Remedies for Emerging & Resistant Viral Infections by Stephen Harrod Buhner or consult with your herbalist. As always, herbal medicines should be combined with a healthy diet and appropriate lifestyle adaptations (such as increasing rest and sleep during illness).
Given that COVID-19 is new and still being researched, I can only offer recommendations based on herbs that are considered useful for other similar respiratory viral infections (such as other types of coronavirus and the common flu). Of course, none of these herbs are intended to specifically treat COVID-19 much less cure or prevent it. These recommendations are offered here as a guide to ways you can support health and wellness for yourself and your family. If you are currently taking medications, are undergoing medical treatment, pregnant, breastfeeding, or administering herbs to children under the age of 12, speak with your healthcare provider or herbalist before taking any herbal medicines.
Important note: There has been some misinformation spread about using Elderberry in relation to coronaviruses. The concerns over taking Elderberry for viruses similar to COVID-19 comes from a single research study on Sambucol. To read more about this, please check out:
- Herbs fo Immunity - Rosalee de la Foret
- Facebook response by Paul Bergner
- COVID-19 Resources - North American Institute of Medical Herbalism
For additional herbal COVID-19 resources, please visit: American Herbalists Guild
Get Well Soon Medicinal Herbs Plantable Seed Card
Preventative Support
Immune System
Astragalus (Atragalus membranaceus)
As an adaptogen (an herb that builds your body’s resiliency to stress and disease while improving overall health) Astragalus can be taken as a daily tonic. The root contains polysaccharides (known as APS or Astragalus polysaccharadies) which are the primary active constituent connected to the herb’s immune modulating and antioxidant activity (among other actions). When taken as a daily tonic, Astragalus helps to protect the body from infection, encourages the development of immune cells, and helps tone the lungs. See “Antiviral Herbs” under Support During a Viral Infection for more on Astragalus’ antiviral activity.
How to use:
- Tincture - Take 30 90 drops 2 to 3 times per day
- Tea - Make a decoction by simmering 1 Tbs of dried root per 16 oz of water. Simmer for 20 minutes. Drink 2 to 3 times per day
Precautions:
- Do not use if you have an autoimmune disorder (unless directed by your health provider) or if you are taking immunosuppresive medications
- Discontinue use during an acute illness. Astragalus works best as a preventative & strengthener to those who are not actively sick but want to increase immune function.
- Astragalus and other adaptogens may be most effective when occasional breaks are taken, staggering or cycling use with another adaptogen, such as Cordyceps or Reishi.
Cordyceps (C. sinensis and C. militaris)
See Anti-virals under “Support during a viral infection”
Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)
Reishi mushrooms are, like Astragalus, an adaptogen rich in polysaccharides (along with other constituents) that help to enhance the immune system. They also have an affinity for the lungs, acting as a respiratory tonic. Reishi also shows some antiviral activity, at least for certain viruses (such as herpes simplex).
How to use:
- Tincture - Take 30 to 90 drops 2 to 3 times per day. Look for double extractions for the most benefit.
- Tea - Make a decoction by simmering 1 Tbs (or about a thumb size piece of mushroom, broken into smaller pieces) of dried mushroom per 16 oz of water. Simmer for at least 20 minutes. Drink 2 to 3 times per day. This tea is quite bitter, so adding a sweetener or spices (such as ginger and cinnamon) can make it more palatable.
Precautions:
- Do not use if you are taking immunosuppresive medications
- Consult your physician before taking if you are currently undergoing chemo therapy or if you are taking blood thinners
- Reishi and other adaptogens may be most effective when occasional breaks are taken, staggering or cycling use with another adaptogen, such as Cordyceps or Astragalus.
Echinacea (Echinacea angustifolia & E. purpurea)
See Immune Support under “Support during a viral infection.”
Stress Support
Stress is a natural reaction to dealing with a constant barrage of news and media information, especially with a health issue like coronavirus. Look to nervine herbs in addition to the adaptogens mentioned above. Some herbs to try are:
- Lemonbalm (Melissa officinalis) - calming, uplifting, digestive support, immune support, antiviral activity
- Rhodiola (Rhodiola rosea) - an adaptogen that supports increased energy and stamina as well as enhancing the immune system. Rhodiola also improves oxygen uptake by the lungs and supports healthy respiratory function.
- Tulsi (Ociumum sanctum) - Tulsi (or Holy Basil) is a mild adaptogen that improves stress resiliency and benefits overall mood. It also has some immunosupportive qualities.
Strengthening & Nourishing Herbs
Look to nutrient rich herbs that also support the immune system in addition to overall health. Some good herbs to start with are:
- Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica) - mineral and vitamin rich, immune support,
- Milky Oats (Avena sativa) - mineral and vitamin rich, stress support
- Red Clover (Trifolium pratense) - mineral and vitamin rich, immune support
Support During a Viral Infection
Anti-viral Herbs
Sweet Annie (Artemisia annua) Sweet Annie shows antiviral activity and shows potential activity against SARS type coronaviruses (not COVID-19 specifically). As with many other antivirals, Sweet Annie appears to prevent viral replication. Sweet Annie also offers support for viral infections with fever in addition to acting as an anti inflammatory. The herb also supports healthy digestion.
How to use:
- Tincture - Take 10 to 30 drops 2 to 3 times per day during illness
- Tea - Steep 1-2 tsp of herb per 8 oz of hot water for 10 minutes. Sweeten with honey if desired. Drink 2 to 3 times a day during illness.
Precautions:
- Avoid during pregnancy
- Do not use with diarrhea
- As a very strong bitter herb, large doses of tea can cause stomach upset or vomiting. If you feel nauseous, discontinue use or decrease your dose.
Astragalus (Atragalus membranaceus)
Astragalus may have multiple actions that help inhibit viral infections, particularly the avian coronavirus among other viruses. APS containted in the root inhibit viral replication and reduce inflammation associated with viral infection.
For more information on Astragalus and dosing, see “Immune System” under Preventative Support (above).
Reishi (Ganoderma lucidum)
Reishi contains at least two constituents that have shown antiviral activity. One substance is water soluble and the other is alcohol soluble.
For more information on Reishi and dosing, see “Immune System” under Preventative Support (above).
Echinacea (Echinacea angustifolia & E. purpurea)
See “Immune Support” below
Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis)
Shown to help inhibit certain proteins associated with viral infections.
How to use:
- Tincture - Take 20 to 30 drops 2 to 3 times per day during illness
- Make a decoction by simmering 1 Tbs of dried root per 16 oz of water. Simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. Drink 2 to 3 times per day.
Precautions:
- Avoid during pregnancy
- Avoid if you experience heavy menstrual bleeding
- Avoid if taking blood thinners or if you have a blood clotting disorder
Goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis)
Shown to inhibit viral replication and viral infection related inflammation. Goldenseal is a potent antimicrobial and has a long history of use as such. The root contains high levels of berberine (an isoquinoline alkaloid) which is also present in Barberry (Berberis vulgaris and Berberis spp.) Goldenseal also assists with digestion and has an affinity for the respiratory system.
NOTE: Goldenseal is at risk of being over harvested in the wild. Always look for organically grown sources. Tincture is the most sustainable way to use this herb. Barberry root is also a suitable alternative as both herbs contain high levels of berberine.
How to use:
- Tincture - Take 20 to 30 drops 2 to 5 times per day during illness.
Precautions:
- Discontinue use after 3 weeks. Goldenseal is a potent herb and should not be taken long term or as a preventative.
- Avoid during pregnancy or breast feeding
Cordyceps (C. sinensis and C. militaris)
Cordyceps mushrooms help to prevent cell invasion and viral replication. They also act as an immunomodulator that is suitable for those with autoimmune disorders, as they also suppress and regulate certain parts of the immune system. Cordyceps can be taken as a long term tonic as well as a supportive herb during acute illness.
How to use:
- Tincture - Take 30 to 90 drops 2 to 3 times per day
- Tea - Make a decoction by simmering 1 Tbs of dried cordyceps per 16 oz of water. Simmer for 20 minutes. Drink 2 to 3 times per day
Precautions:
- None known
Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra)
Licorice can help enhance antiviral formulas as well as offer relief for sore throat. In relation to its potential to treat SARS and coronavirus infections, Licorice has been shown to inhibit virus replication. Licorice also has an affinity for the respiratory system and helps to soothe, moisten, and reduce inflammation in the lungs and throat especially. As such, Licorice is a great addition to formulas for viral support where coughing or sore throat is an issue.
How to use:
- Licorice is best in formula or combined with other herbs, such as Echinacea, Elderberry, and herbs for coughs or colds (such as Horehound and Elderflower)
- Tea - Make a decoction by simmering 2 to 3 tsp of dried root per 16 oz of water. Simmer for 15 minutes. Drink 1 to 3 times per day. Again, in formula is best, though Licorice alone can be a soothing tea for a sore throat.
Precautions:
- Do not take if you have or are at risk for high blood pressure. Licorice can increase blood pressure, especially with prolonged use or those at risk for HBP.
- Discontinue use after 4 weeks. Licorice is not intended for long term use in medicinal quantities.
- Licorice can lower potassium levels, so avoid it if you have low blood potassium.
Immune Support
Echinacea (Echinacea angustifolia & E. purpurea)
Echinacea is well known for its immunosupportive properties. Generally Echinacea is taken during an illness to shorten its duration by stimulating and modulating the immune system. However, some herbalists recommend taking Echinacea, particularly the herbaceous parts of E. angustifolia, as a preventative. As a preventative, Echinacea can be taken during a viral outbreak (such a flu season) or during the early stages of illness. During acute illness, taking Echinacea regularly can help your body overcome illness more quickly, similar to zinc supplements. Echinacea also posesses antiviral qualities.
NOTE: Echinacea is at risk of being over harvested in the wild. Always look for organically grown sources.
Echinacea Plantable Wildflower Seed Card
How to use:
- Regardless of when Echinacea is taken, it should be used short term only. Preferably for 2 to 3 weeks and no more than 12 weeks. Extended use may reduce the her'b’s effectiveness.
- Herbaceous aerial parts are more effective than root, fresh is even better. E. angustifolia may be most effective as a preventative compared to E. purpurea. However, both species support the immune system.
- Tincture - Take 30 drops 2 to 3 times per day or up to 4 times per day during acute illness
- Tea - Steep 1 Tbs of herb per 16 oz of water for 10 to 15 minutes. Drink 3 to 4 times per day during acute illness or 1 to 3 times per day as a preventative.
* Echinacea herb and Licorice root combined are even more effective at reducing illness severity and duration.
Precautions:
- Do not use if you have an autoimmune disorder (unless directed by your health provider) or if you are taking immunosuppresive medications
- Do not use for more than 12 weeks at a time. May be most effective if used for 3 weeks or less to address acute infections.
**Elderberry (Sambucus nigra)
Elderberry is one of the chief immune supporting herbs that also has antiviral activity. It has been studied as effective against the common flu virus. Part of Elderberry’s action is to prevent viral replication.
How to use:
- Elderberry syrup is one of the more palatable forms of the herb. Safe for children. Can be easily made at home or purchased. Take 1 to 3 Tbs per day at the onset of an illness and throughout.
- While Elderberry can be used as a preventitive, it is best as a short term tonic during viral outbreaks (like flu season) and during acute illness. It is most effective when taken at the early onset of illness and for its duration, generally no more than 3 weeks. Avoid long term use of more than 8 to 12 weeks at a time
- Tincture - Take 30 drops 2 to 3 times per day or up to 4 times per day during acute illness
- Tea - Make a decoction by simmering 1 Tbs of dried berries per 16 oz of water. Simmer for 15 minutes. Drink 2 to 3 times per day.
* Combine with Elderflower during acute illness with fever and/or upper respiratory discharge (post-nasal drip in particular).
Precautions:
- Take to your health provider if you are taking immunosuppresive medications
- Never use products that contain the bark, roots, leaves, or stems (tiny amounts attached to berries are fine) of the Elderberry plant. These contain high levels of cyanide-like compounds and should never be taken internally. Only the berries and flowers are to be used as internal medicine.
Strengthening & Nourishing Herbs
Look to the same herbs listed for preventative herbs. Other herbs to include during acute illness are:
- Slippery Elm (Ulmus rubra) - soothing and moistening, this herb is good during convalescence and helps reduce inflammation in the throat and digestive system. The powdered bark can also be made into a nutritious gruel for those recovering from severe illness where appetite is affected.
- Mullein (Verbascum thapsus) - soothing and moistening to the lungs, this herb is especially helpful for dry and unproductive coughs
- Yarrow (Acheillia millefolium) - Yarrow is a bitter herb, which can help stimulate digestion in illness where appetite is affected. It is also very useful in breaking and relieving fevers, reducing inflammation, as well as having some antimicrobial activity.
- Peppermint (Mentha piperita) - a cooling and opening herb that helps with fever as well as immune stimulation and digestive support.
Sources
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Herbal Antivirals: Natural Remedies for Emerging & Resistant Viral Infections
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The antiviral and antimicrobial activities of licorice, a widely-used Chinese herb
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Identification of natural compounds with antiviral activities against SARS-associated coronavirus
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Inhibition of H1N1 influenza A virus growth and induction of inflammatory mediators by the isoquinoline alkaloid berberine and extracts of goldenseal (Hydrastis canadensis)
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Astragalus polysaccharides inhibit avian infectious bronchitis virus infection by regulating viral replication
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Immunmodulatory and Antiproliferative Properties of Rhodiola Species
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Sambucus nigra extracts inhibit infectious bronchitis virus at an early point during replication
About the author:
Vincent Frano is an avid student of nature. He is trained as an herbalist with over 10 years of experience in European traditions with knowledge of Ayurvedic and North American herbs. He holds a BS in Sustainable Horticulture from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst where he focused on herbal medicines, native plants, invasive species, and ecosystem restoration. Vincent is the co-founder of Small Victories and is the lead illustrator for Small Victories' products.
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Information on this website has not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. All information is for educational purposes only. The U.S. FDA does not evaluate or test herbs or herbal products. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any illness or disease. Please consult with your physician for diagnosis or treatment.