12 Plants With Antiviral Properties

Before there were synthetic drugs and pharmacies on every corner across the country, there were natural remedies derived from plants. The plants have not changed, nor have their antiviral properties and medicinal uses, we opted for the synthetic medications instead of the natural remedies.

All plants provide some type of health benefit and can be used instead of or in conjunction with other forms of medicine. Here is a list of plants with antiviral properties that can help fight viruses and are often used by practitioners of natural medicine.

Astragalus

This herb is popular in Chinese medicine and is claimed to have immune-boosting, anti-aging and anti-inflammatory, and antiviral properties. Astragalus is a potent herb plant that fights against herpes, hepatitis C, and influenza.

Basil

This plant boosts the immune system so it can fight off viral infections naturally. Basil also contains compounds that fight against herpes and hepatitis B. Basil oil is also used to treat minor skin abrasions and irritations to prevent infection.

Dandelion

A weed plant that grows everywhere, the dandelion is an edible food plant that is rich in antiviral properties. Dandelion extract is potent against hepatitis B, HIV, and influenza. It has also been shown to inhibit the mosquito-borne dengue virus.

Echinacea

This plant is well known for its’ antiviral properties and ability to prevent colds and flu, or at least shorten the duration of the common viral afflictions.

All parts of the echinacea plant are used for medicinal purposes. The plant boosts the immune system so it can fight against viral infections, including herpes, naturally.

Fennel

This unusual-looking herb has the flavor of licorice and is used as a flavor enhancer in many recipes. Fennel extract is used to fight against viral infections, like herpes and influenza in cattle. Fennel also strengthens the immune system and decrease inflammation throughout the body.

Garlic

Garlic has long been used in natural remedies and is a potent antiviral plant. Studies have shown garlic to be powerful in the fight against several strains of influenza, viral pneumonia, rhinovirus, and warts caused by human papillomavirus (HPV).

Eating garlic provides the immune system with a natural boost to help the body fend off viral infections.

Ginger

Popular plant root that is used to flavor teas, soft drinks, and other health-benefiting beverages. Ginger root has long been used to settle an upset stomach and it’s now becoming widely known and used for its’ antiviral properties.

Studies have shown that ginger is a powerful front-line defender that prevents viruses from entering host cells in both humans and felines. This plant also contains potent antiviral properties that fend off strains of influenza and Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV).

Ginseng

This highly sought after antiviral plant grows wild in the mountainous regions of the Appalachians and is harvested at certain times of the year. Ginseng is an integral part of Chinese medicine and prized for its’ antiviral properties and ability to fight infections.

Ginseng has potent effects against RSV, herpes viruses, hepatitis A and B. This powerful antiviral plant also contains compounds that are used to treat an infection of the brain called meningoencephalitis and other debilitating viruses.

Lemon Balm

Lemon balm is a perennial herb plant that is in the mint family and has many uses in food and drink, plus it’s a favorite food of pollinators. Lemon balm has many medicinal uses and is often used as a home remedy to soothe digestive issues and headaches.

Lemon balm extract is rich in antiviral properties and useful in combating herpes, HIV, and several strains of viruses that are common in infants and children.

Licorice

The root of the licorice plant has long been used in Chinese medicine and is commonly used around the world to soothe and repair gastrointestinal problems. Licorice contains anti-inflammatory properties, antiviral properties, and it gives the immune system a boost.

This antiviral plant is a potent fighter against herpes, RSV, and acute respiratory issues.

Oregano

This common herb is found in its’ dried form in almost every kitchen across the globe. Oregano is a staple seasoning in Italian cuisine and it contains an impressive amount of antiviral compounds.

Oregano is often used to combat stomach flu and is a powerful antiviral agent against all digestive issues, herpes, and respiratory infections.

Peppermint

Everyone is familiar with the scent and taste of peppermint candy, and that familiar aroma and flavor come from the oil of peppermint plants.

One of the most well-known plants with antiviral properties, peppermint oil is used in teas, extract, and tinctures used to treat viral infections. It’s a potent force against respiratory viral infections and also contains anti-inflammatory properties.

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