Fielding a Barrage of Information on Coronavirus by Allison Feehan, N.D., D.Psc., CRMT

If you aren’t sick of hearing about this coronavirus epidemic, then let me lend your ear. The news of this outbreak making it into the United States has everyone on edge. With this virus being so close to home leaves us feeling a bit helpless in how to prep for it should it make it even closer to our hometown. There are some holistic approaches that we can exercise to prep ourselves and our family. First, we should look at the science of this officially named nCoV-2019 or otherwise known as the coronavirus.

The coronavirus that has originated from Wuhan, China is a SARS like virus and is determined it to be 75 to 80 percent match to SARS-CoV and 85 percent plus similar to multiple coronaviruses found in bats. It has yet been determined whether the infection is as lethal as SARS. The symptoms of the coronavirus are runny nose, cough, sore throat, mild to moderate upper respiratory tract illness. Contracting the virus is as similar as contracting the common cold. Sneezing, coughing, shaking hands, handling waste of an infected person, and touching your mouth, eyes, or nose from an infected object.

But what, if anything, can we do to protect ourselves and our family? In my research to empower myself against this fearful bug, has led me to a few natural supplements and practices to help defend it and fight it. In my research, I have read that HIV-1 (human immunodeficiency virus), HSV-2 (Herpes simplex virus), HCV (Hepatitis C) and the Ebola virus have a glycoprotein shell that surrounds the virus just like the coronavirus. This protective shell is why it is so difficult to treat the virus. Research has shown that mannose-binding lectins have shown to penetrate and crack this protective shell that surrounds the virus. One such lectin has been found in red algae. “The Griffithsia species of red algae seem to have broad spectrum of antiviral activity of binding by binding oligomannose glycans on viral envelope glycoproteins.” Unfortunately, you will not find this species on the shelf. The government saw its amazing healing properties and patented it. It is used to treat HIV and other viral diseases. The good news is red algae does have amazing antiviral properties as well as immune support.

In addition to beginning the protocol of red algae, HIGH doses of vitamin C is also in order. Vitamin C has shown powerful antiviral action against viruses in general but in this case the coronavirus. It is extremely important to maximize the body’s anti-oxidative capacity and natural immunity to prevent and minimize symptoms when a virus attacks the human body. The host environment is crucial. Also, incorporate natural vitamin C through foods rich in vitamin C. Think broccoli, brussels sprouts, lemons, strawberries, oranges, etc.

“The following inexpensive supplemental levels are recommended for adults; for children reduce these in proportion to body weight:

Vitamin C: 3,000 milligrams (or more) daily, in divided doses. Vitamin D3: 2,000 International Units daily. (Start with 5,000 IU/day for two weeks, then reduce to 2,000) Magnesium: 400 mg daily (in citrate, malate, chelate, or chloride form) Zinc: 20 mg daily Selenium: 100 mcg (micrograms) daily Vitamin C[1], Vitamin D[2], magnesium [3], zinc[4], and selenium [5]have been shown to strengthen the immune system against viruses.”

Licorice root has been used for thousands of years for lung infections with similar symptoms as viral infections. Studies have found that licorice root extracts were able to reduce SARS and MERS-CoV replication. You can find licorice root at your local health food store.

These strategies should of course be used with a general immunity-boosting lifestyle. All we can do is try, right? I’m trying to find my empowerment and to remove the fear surrounding this nasty bug. As a community, we need to help each other. I would love to hear what you’re doing to get yourself and your family health and wellness ready. What holistic protocols are you trying? Drop us a line info@integrativehealingandwellness.com We’ll share your feedback along with this article on our media outlets so be sure to follow us on Facebook and Instagram. You can even sign up for our monthly newsletters on our website.

Consult with your health professional if you are sick. Treat serious illnesses seriously. Health and wellness practices are not a one size fits all. Not all supplements are safe for pregnant or nursing women. Please consult your physician before consuming.

Allison Feehan N.D., D.Psc, CRMT Owner of the Coastal Cottage 64 Bridge Avenue Bay Head, NJ 08742