An estimated 30,000 Americans die each year from the flu. Most of these people are elderly, the very young, and the immunocompromised. One of the issues for the elderly is that their body’s ability to absorb the vaccine has gotten blunted over the years. Acupuncture and Chinese Herbs are a natural way to boost immunity before flu season gains traction. Life Extension recommends supplementing with the amino acids L-theanine and L-cystine to enhance the efficacy of the flu vaccine.
In my clinic, I keep Chinese formulas for colds and flu on hand all year long. Early intervention and treatment is key to stopping the flu in its early stages, so I like to make sure I have a variety of herbal remedies.
Read more about studies on Chinese herbs for cold and flu here: http://www.reuters.com/article/2011/08/15/us-chinese-herb-flu-idUSTRE77E5OI20110815
Read more about L-theanine and L-cystine from Life Extension: http://www.lef.org/magazine/mag2013/dec2013_Enhanced-Winter-Wellness-Against-Colds-and-Flu_01.htm?utm_campaign=normal&utm_source=twitter&utm_medium=social