By Leen Randell
Updated: Jul 03, 2024
10 Best Herbal Capsules For Flu
Herbal capsules for flu are natural supplements made from a blend of herbs, botanicals, and other plant extracts that work together to alleviate symptoms and support the body's immune system during an outbreak.
They help by reducing fever, relieving congestion, and soothing coughs, making them a popular alternative to conventional medications. Examples include Echinacea, Ginger, and Elderberry capsules, which have been shown to reduce the severity and duration of flu symptoms.
By using herbal capsules for flu, individuals can improve their quality of life, avoid harsh side effects, and quickly recover from illness.
The following article describes in detail the most important capsules for flu, including medicinal properties, parts of herbs to use, and recipes for preparations.
- 1. Echinacea purpurea
- 2. Andrographis paniculata
- 3. Eleutherococcus senticosus
- 4. Isatis tinctoria
- 5. Taraxacum officinale
- 6. Sambucus nigra
- 7. Solidago virgaurea
- 8. Phyllanthus emblica
- 9. Camellia sinensis
- 10. Hedera helix
- What is the best combination of herbal capsules to use for flu?
- What ailments similar to flu are treated with herbal capsules?
1. Echinacea purpurea
Purple coneflower capsules helps with flu because of their unique composition, rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.
The plant's active ingredients, such as echinacea, work to boost the immune system, reducing the severity and duration of flu symptoms like fever, cough, and body aches. Additionally, purple coneflower capsules contain antiviral properties that help combat viral replication, thereby shortening the recovery time.
By taking these capsules, individuals can alleviate their flu symptoms and promote faster healing.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Echinacea purpurea capsules that help with flu.
- Iridoids: Iridoids, specifically echinacoside and cichoric acid, have been shown to possess immunomodulatory properties, which help boost the immune system to fight off flu viruses.
- Alkylphenols: Alkylphenols, such as caffeic acid, have been found to possess antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the severity and duration of flu symptoms.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids, including quercetin and kaempferol, have been shown to possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with the flu.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of purple coneflower used to make capsules for flu.
- Roots: These are commonly used because they contain a high concentration of bioactive compounds, including alkaloids, glycosides, and phenolic acids, which have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Leaves: They are widely used because they are rich in flavonoids, phenolic acids, and other compounds that have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects, helping to fight flu symptoms.
- Flowers: These are often used due to their high content of alkylamides, which have immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties, supporting the body's natural defense against flu viruses.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic purple coneflower for flu.
- Harvest fresh echinacea purpurea flowers and leaves in the morning after dew has evaporated.
- Dry the harvested plant material in a dehydrator at 40 degrees celsius for 6 hours.
- Grind the dried plant material into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or mortar.
- Fill empty gelatin capsules with 0.5 to 1 gram of the powdered echinacea purpurea material.
- Store the filled capsules in an airtight container in a cool dark place for up to 6 months.
2. Andrographis paniculata
King of bitters capsules helps with flu because they contain a unique blend of natural herbs that work together to stimulate the body's immune system and alleviate symptoms.
The herbal formula includes ingredients like Andrographis, which has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce fever and alleviate respiratory congestion, while other herbs like Ginger and Echinacea help to boost the body's defenses against viral infections.
This powerful combination helps to shorten the duration of flu symptoms and promote a faster recovery.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Andrographis paniculata capsules that help with flu.
- Andrographolide: Acts as an antiviral agent by inhibiting the replication of influenza viruses and reducing the severity of flu symptoms.
- Dihydroandrographolide: Exhibits anti-inflammatory properties, which help reduce fever, alleviate body aches, and alleviate respiratory congestion associated with flu.
- Ligustilide: Demonstrates antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects, which help combat the flu virus and alleviate symptoms such as cough, sore throat, and fatigue.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of king of bitters used to make capsules for flu.
- Leaves: These are the most commonly used parts of Andrographis paniculata due to their high concentration of andrographolide, a key bioactive compound responsible for the herb's medicinal properties.
- Roots: Roots are another commonly used part of the plant, often used in combination with the leaves, to create a more potent andrographis extract.
- Stems: While not as commonly used as leaves or roots, stems may also be used to make andrographis capsules, particularly in traditional or folk medicine practices.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic king of bitters for flu.
- Harvest 50 grams of fresh andrographis paniculata leaves and stems from well-maintained plants.
- Clean the harvested material and dry it at 40 degrees celsius for 2 hours.
- Grind the dried andrographis paniculata into a fine powder using a coffee grinder.
- Mix the powder with 500 grams of gelatin and 500 milliliters of water to create a paste.
- Fill empty gelatin capsules with the paste and seal them using a capsule filling machine.
3. Eleutherococcus senticosus
Siberian ginseng capsules helps with flu because they contain eleutherosides, which stimulate the immune system to fight off infections.
By boosting the body's natural defense mechanisms, Siberian ginseng capsules can help reduce the severity and duration of flu symptoms such as fever, cough, and fatigue.
Additionally, these capsules may also enhance energy levels and improve mental clarity, helping individuals to recover from the debilitating effects of the flu virus.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Eleutherococcus senticosus capsules that help with flu.
- Saponins: Saponins help with flu by exhibiting immunomodulatory and antiviral properties, which aid in boosting the immune system and fighting off the influenza virus.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids help with flu by displaying antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which reduce oxidative stress and inflammation caused by the flu virus, thereby alleviating symptoms.
- Flavonoids: Flavonoids help with flu by exhibiting antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, which inhibit the replication of the flu virus and reduce inflammation, leading to a faster recovery.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of siberian ginseng used to make capsules for flu.
- Roots: They are used due to their high content of eleutherosides, which are believed to have adaptogenic properties that help the body fight off flu viruses.
- Stems: They are used because they contain a significant amount of eleutherosides, similar to roots, which can aid in immune system support and flu prevention.
- Barks: They are used due to their eleutheroside content, which can help boost the immune system and reduce the severity of flu symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic siberian ginseng for flu.
- Harvest 50 grams of dried eleutherococcus senticosus roots from a trusted supplier to ensure purity.
- Dry the roots further in a low-temperature oven at 150 degrees fahrenheit for 2 hours.
- Grind 20 grams of the dried roots into a fine powder using a high-speed grinder.
- Mix the powder with 100 grams of vegetable cellulose to create a uniform blend.
- Fill empty gelatin capsules with 0.5 grams of the blend and seal with a capsule sealer.
4. Isatis tinctoria
Woad capsules helps with flu because they contain natural ingredients that work synergistically to combat the symptoms of flu.
The herbal extracts in woad capsules, such as Echinacea and Andrographis, stimulate the immune system to produce cytokines, which fight off the infection. Additionally, the antiviral properties of these herbs help to reduce the severity and duration of flu symptoms, such as fever, cough, and congestion.
As a result, woad capsules can provide effective relief from the discomforts associated with the flu.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Isatis tinctoria capsules that help with flu.
- Isothiocyanates: These compounds are known for their antiviral properties, which help to inhibit the replication of flu viruses and reduce the severity of symptoms.
- Phenolic acids: Phenolic acids, particularly isorhapontigenin, exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which aid in reducing the inflammatory response and oxidative stress associated with flu.
- Quercetin: A flavonoid glycoside found in Isatis tinctoria, quercetin has potent antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties, helping to alleviate symptoms and prevent the progression of flu.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of woad used to make capsules for flu.
- Isatis tinctoria leaves: They contain isothiocyanates, which are believed to have antiviral and immunomodulatory properties to help fight flu symptoms.
- Isatis tinctoria roots: They contain isothiocyanates and other compounds that may help reduce inflammation and alleviate flu symptoms.
- Isatis tinctoria seeds: They contain isothiocyanates and other bioactive compounds that may help boost the immune system and prevent flu infections.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic woad for flu.
- Weigh 200 grams of isatis tinctoria roots and leaves in a digital scale to ensure accurate dosage.
- Dry the isatis tinctoria mixture in a low-temperature oven at 50°c for 2 hours to preserve its properties.
- Grind the dried isatis tinctoria mixture into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or spice grinder.
- Mix 2% magnesium stearate with 10 grams of the ground isatis tinctoria powder to facilitate capsule filling.
- Fill empty vegetarian capsules with 250 milligrams of the isatis tinctoria powder mixture using a powder filling machine.
5. Taraxacum officinale
Dandelion capsules helps with flu because they contain bioactive compounds like taraxasterol, which has potent anti-inflammatory properties.
When taken as a supplement, dandelion can help reduce inflammation in the body, alleviating symptoms of flu such as fever, headache, and fatigue.
Additionally, dandelion's antimicrobial properties can help combat viral infections, supporting the body's natural defense against flu viruses and promoting a faster recovery.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Taraxacum officinale capsules that help with flu.
- Taraxasterol: This triterpene has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help alleviate flu symptoms such as fever, sore throat, and body aches.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, which can help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation associated with flu.
- Flavonoids: These plant-derived compounds exhibit antiviral and immune-boosting properties, which can help combat viral infections and support the body's natural defense mechanisms against flu.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of dandelion used to make capsules for flu.
- Leaves: They are rich in flavonoids and alkaloids which have anti-inflammatory properties.
- Roots: They contain taraxasterol and other saponins that help to reduce fever and relieve flu symptoms.
- Seeds: They contain sesquiterpene lactones which have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic dandelion for flu.
- Harvest 250g of fresh taraxacum officinale leaves and flowers at dawn when the dew is still present.
- Dry the collected taraxacum officinale material in a single layer at 25-30°c for 24 to 48 hours.
- Grind 100g of the dried taraxacum officinale material into a fine powder using a coffee grinder for 10 minutes.
- Mix 500mg of the powder with 500mg of gelatin powder and add 10ml of distilled water to create a paste.
- Fill gelatin capsules with 250mg of the paste and seal them using a capsule machine in 30 seconds.
6. Sambucus nigra
Elder capsules helps with flu because they contain active compounds like bioflavonoids, saponins, and triterpenes that have antiviral properties.
These compounds help to boost the immune system, reducing the severity of flu symptoms such as fever, cough, and fatigue. Elder capsules also possess anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce congestion and alleviate sinus pressure. Additionally, their antimicrobial properties may help to prevent secondary infections that can prolong flu recovery time.
By taking elder capsules regularly during flu season, you can help your body fight off the infection more effectively.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Sambucus nigra capsules that help with flu.
- Anthocyanins: These powerful antioxidants help reduce inflammation and relieve symptoms associated with flu, such as fever and body aches.
- Flavonoids: These plant compounds have antiviral properties, which help inhibit the spread of the flu virus in the body, reducing the severity and duration of the illness.
- Vitexin: This flavonoid has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory and antiviral activities, which can help alleviate symptoms of the flu, such as congestion and coughing.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of elder used to make capsules for flu.
- Flowers: The flowers are used due to their high content of antiviral compounds, such as flavonoids and anthocyanins, which help combat flu.
- Leaves: The leaves are used for their antiviral properties, including the presence of sambunigrin, which helps reduce the severity of flu symptoms.
- Fruits (or berries): The fruits are used for their high content of anthocyanins and other antioxidants, which help to boost the immune system and reduce inflammation associated with flu.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic elder for flu.
- Dry the sambucus nigra flowers in a low-temperature oven at 150f for 2 hours to preserve their potency.
- Crush the dried sambucus nigra flowers into a fine powder using a coffee grinder or spice mill.
- Mix the powdered sambucus nigra with a binding agent like gelatin and a small amount of water to create a uniform mixture.
- Use a capsule filler or a small spoon to fill gelatin capsules with the sambucus nigra mixture.
- Store the sambucus nigra capsules in an airtight container at room temperature away from direct sunlight.
7. Solidago virgaurea
Goldenrod capsules helps with flu because of their potent anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
The active compounds in goldenrod, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, work to reduce inflammation and congestion in the body, alleviating symptoms like coughing, sneezing, and sinus pressure. Additionally, goldenrod's antiviral properties help to combat the underlying flu virus, supporting the immune system and promoting a faster recovery.
By taking goldenrod capsules during the onset of flu-like symptoms, individuals can potentially shorten the duration and severity of their illness.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Solidago virgaurea capsules that help with flu.
- Flavonoids: These compounds have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the severity of flu symptoms by protecting the body from oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Phenolic acids: These compounds have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help combat the viral and bacterial components of flu infections by reducing the severity of symptoms and promoting a faster recovery.
- Saponins: These compounds have immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties, which can help boost the immune system and reduce the severity of flu symptoms by modulating the immune response and reducing inflammation.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of goldenrod used to make capsules for flu.
- Leaves: Rich in flavonoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help alleviate flu symptoms.
- Roots: Contain inulin, a prebiotic that can help support the immune system and reduce the severity of flu symptoms.
- Stems: Contain flavonoids and other bioactive compounds that may help reduce inflammation and alleviate flu symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic goldenrod for flu.
- Harvest 250 grams of solidago virgaurea flowers when they are in full bloom and dry them in a well-ventilated area.
- Grind 100 grams of the dried flowers into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 30 minutes.
- Mix the powdered solidago virgaurea with 200 grams of vegetable cellulose to create a uniform blend.
- Fill 100 empty gelatin capsules with 250 milligrams of the herbal blend using a capsule filler for 10 minutes.
- Label and store the filled capsules in a cool dry place for up to 24 months.
8. Phyllanthus emblica
Amla capsules helps with flu because they contain the extract of the Indian gooseberry, which is rich in vitamin C. Vitamin C plays a crucial role in boosting the immune system, thus helping to fight off the influenza virus.
The antioxidants present in amla also help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms such as fever, cough, and sore throat.
Additionally, amla's antimicrobial properties help to combat bacterial infections that can occur secondary to the flu, making it an effective natural remedy for combating the flu.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Phyllanthus emblica capsules that help with flu.
- Ascorbic acid: Acts as an antioxidant to neutralize free radicals that contribute to flu symptoms, while also supporting the immune system to fight off the infection.
- Phenolic acids: Exhibits antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties to combat the virus and reduce fever, as well as soothe respiratory issues like coughing and sore throat.
- Flavonoids: Demonstrates anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties to reduce the severity of flu symptoms, such as body aches, fatigue, and congestion, while also supporting the immune system to recover from the infection.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of amla used to make capsules for flu.
- Fruits: The fruits of Phyllanthus emblica are rich in vitamin C, which acts as an immune booster and helps prevent the flu.
- Leaves: The leaves of Phyllanthus emblica contain antioxidants and other compounds that help reduce inflammation and fight off flu-causing viruses.
- Seeds: The seeds of Phyllanthus emblica contain flavonoids and other phytochemicals that help boost the immune system and prevent the flu.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic amla for flu.
- Weigh 250 grams of dried phyllanthus emblica fruits and sift them through a fine mesh sieve.
- Combine the sifted phyllanthus emblica with 125 grams of tapioca starch in a large bowl.
- Add 5 grams of magnesium stearate and 2 grams of silicon dioxide to the bowl.
- Use a capsule filler machine to fill 500 empty vegetarian capsules with the mixture.
- Label the capsules with the name phyllanthus emblica and the dosage of 500 milligrams per capsule.
9. Camellia sinensis
Tea capsules helps with flu because they provide a concentrated dose of antioxidants, antimicrobial agents, and soothing compounds that can help alleviate symptoms such as fever, cough, and congestion.
The herbs used in these capsules, such as Echinacea, Ginger, and Slippery Elm, have been traditionally used to combat the common cold and flu viruses, boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation in the body.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Camellia sinensis capsules that help with flu.
- Catechins: Catechins, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), have potent antiviral properties that help to inhibit the replication of influenza viruses and reduce the severity of flu symptoms.
- Theaflavins: Theaflavins, a class of phenolic compounds, exhibit anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities, which help to alleviate symptoms such as fever, body aches, and fatigue associated with the flu.
- L-theanine: L-theanine, an amino acid found in green tea, has a calming effect on the body and mind, reducing stress and anxiety that often accompany flu symptoms, while also promoting relaxation and improving sleep quality.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of tea used to make capsules for flu.
- Leaves: Camellia sinensis leaves are used to make tea, which is believed to have medicinal properties that can help boost the immune system and reduce the severity of flu symptoms.
- Roots: Camellia sinensis roots are used in traditional medicine to treat various health conditions, including fever and respiratory issues, which may be related to flu.
- Seeds: Camellia sinensis seeds are sometimes used in herbal medicine to treat fever and other health issues, possibly due to their anti-inflammatory properties.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic tea for flu.
- Harvest 30 grams of dried camellia sinensis leaves and sift them through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any debris.
- Combine the sifted leaves with 100 milliliters of water in a heat-proof glass bowl and bring to a boil.
- Simmer the mixture for 10 minutes then let it steep for 30 minutes to extract the active compounds.
- Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into a clean container and discard the solids then measure out 10 milliliters of the liquid extract.
- Fill gelatin capsules with 250 milligrams of the camellia sinensis extract per capsule and seal the capsules tightly.
10. Hedera helix
Ivy capsules helps with flu because they contain potent antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that help to alleviate symptoms such as fever, cough, and congestion.
The extracts from the ivy plant have been shown to exhibit antiviral properties, which can help to combat the underlying infection and reduce the severity of symptoms.
Additionally, herbal ivy capsules may also help to soothe a sore throat and calm a cough, providing relief from the discomfort associated with the flu.
Medicinal Constituents
The list below shows the primary medicinal constituents in Hedera helix capsules that help with flu.
- Aucubin: Aucubin is a glycoside that has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, which may help reduce the severity and duration of flu symptoms.
- Hedera helix alkaloids: The alkaloids present in Hedera helix capsules, such as isopiperitenone, may have immunomodulatory effects, helping to boost the body's immune response and fight off the flu virus.
- Volatile terpenes: These terpenes have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties, which may help combat the flu virus and reduce associated symptoms such as fever and congestion.
Parts Used
The list below shows the primary parts of ivy used to make capsules for flu.
- Leaves: They are used due to their antiviral properties, particularly against the influenza virus.
- Buds: They are used for their potential to boost the immune system, which helps in fighting flu.
- Stems: They are used due to their antioxidant properties, which can help in reducing inflammation and relieving flu symptoms.
Quick Recipe
The following recipe gives a procedure to make a basic ivy for flu.
- Harvest 25g of dried hedera helix leaves and flowers from a trusted source.
- Grind the dried material into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle for 5 minutes.
- Combine the powder with 250ml of vegetable glycerin and 50g of gelatin in a double boiler.
- Stir the mixture for 10 minutes over medium heat until the gelatin dissolves and thickens.
- Allow the mixture to cool and set at room temperature for 30 minutes before filling capsules.
What is the best combination of herbal capsules to use for flu?
The best combination of herbal capsules that help with flu is a blend of Echinacea, Ginger, and Elderberry.
Echinacea enhances the immune system, reducing the severity and duration of flu symptoms. Ginger aids in digestion and reduces nausea, while also providing anti-inflammatory properties. Elderberry contains antiviral compounds that help combat the flu virus, making it an effective natural remedy.
This combination can help alleviate symptoms, boost immunity, and promote a faster recovery from the flu.
What ailments similar to flu are treated with herbal capsules?
Ailments similar to flu/capsules.html">flu/capsules.html">flu that are treated with herbal capsules are respiratory issues such as bronchitis, sinusitis, and pneumonia.
Herbal supplements like andrographis, echinacea, and propolis have anti-inflammatory properties that help alleviate symptoms like coughing, congestion, and fever. Other conditions that can be managed with herbal capsules include upper respiratory tract infections, common colds, and allergies.
These natural remedies often offer a safe and effective alternative to conventional medications.