Natural Sources of Anti-Virals & Anti-Bacterials (immune support)
Updated: Mar 15, 2020
I believe it's safe to say most of us know it is not wise planning to lean on pharmaceuticals, such as antibiotics and antiviral medications for every ill. Though sometimes necessary, there are other means to warding off unwelcome bacteria and viruses. With the current scare of the flu and coronavirus (COVID-19), it would benefit not only our body's constitution but our peace of mind to take extra care of our well being in this concerning season.
Below are lists of natural sources (supplements and essential oils) that I personally consume when in need of immunity protection and restoration. Research these suggestions, and you will find that these sources are powerful to help bolster you on the course to a balanced, fortified system and overall wellness.

Top Immunity Supplements
Zinc
Garlic
Vitamin D3
Vitamin C
Elderberry
Probiotics
Echinacea
Grapefruit Seed Extract
Ginger (I like to juice raw ginger or eat the dried/crystallized ginger)
Melatonin (to get your rest!)
Product Suggestions (these are a few in my apothecary)
Dr. Mercola Organic Oregano Essential Oil 1 oz https://bit.ly/3a4vePa
Ginger People Organic Grated Ginger 6.7 oz https://bit.ly/2wa6M07
NutriBiotic Throat Spray 4 fl oz https://bit.ly/33vfVNn
Dr. Mercola Liposomal Vitamin C 1000 mg - 60 Caps https://bit.ly/2wUP54S
Garden of Life Vitamin Code RAW Zinc 60 Vegan Caps https://bit.ly/39TnoIm
Top Anti-Viral/Anti-Bacterial Essential Oils
*Tea Tree- Can irritate the skin, use with caution.
Eucalyptus (all varieties: Blue Gum, Narrow Leaf, Citridora)
*Cinnamon (Burmanii)- Can irritate the skin, use with caution.
*Thyme- Can irritate the skin, use with caution.
*Ginger- Can irritate the skin, use with caution.
*Clove- Can irritate the skin, use with caution.
* More prone than other oils to cause skin irritations. Always use a carrier oil.
(Adapted list from Ananda Apothecary)
Application of Essential Oils
Internal (only do so under the direction of an aromatherapist/health care provider)- I recommend Young Living's Vitality line, specifically formulated for internal consumption. Thieves blend remains one of their top products!
Topical- Be certain to use a carrier oil (aka a base oil) with your essential oil application. A safe rule of thumb: 2 - 3 drops of pure essential oil per teaspoon of carrier oil. Example of carrier oils: almond, avocado, grapeseed, coconut, olive oil, apricot, sesame seed, jojoba oil. I concentrate on applying oils along the spine, neck lymph nodes, and on the feet to support the immune system.
Diffuse- With various diffusers on the market, you can easily find one on Amazon or through your favorite essential oil carrier such as Young Living, doTerra, or another fine company. Diffusing oils into the air is not only for aromatherapy purposes, but also as a means to purify the space you dwell in. Common areas: bedroom, living room/family room, and office.
Other- Foot bath/full body bath, steam shower, use in natural cleaning products, or create a room mist or hand sanitizer (simply add oils with the base of 50/50 witch hazel and alcohol such as vodka): 10 oil drops per 1 oz alcohol/witch hazel.
Sources
Ananda Apothecary www.anandaessentialoils.com
Mountain Rose Herbs www.mountainroseherbs.com
Young Living www.youngliving.com
doTerra www.doterra.com
NOW's Organic line https://www.nowfoods.com/essential-oils/by-type/organic-essential-oils
Dr. Axe, Ancient Apothecary https://store.draxe.com/collections/essential-oils
If you would like to know more specific details of the information above, such as brands of supplements, please leave a post right here, and I will try my best to answer you!
Be Well,
Cara