Over the past year, millions of cold and flu medicines have been recalled owing to safety problems. These concerns included bottles that were contaminated with bacteria and processing debris, such as small amounts of metal.

Some of the medications involved include varieties of Tylenol, Motrin, Benadryl and Zyrtec. They are not expected to back in the stores again until 2012. The initial recalls were announced by McNeil Consumer Health Care, which is a subsidiary of Johnson and Johnson Company.

This recall may be a perfect time for concerned parents to turn to non-drug alternatives for their children’s as well as their own cold and flu care this season. Popular examples of natural treatments for cold and flu include the use of  Vick’s Vapo-rub on congested lungs and stuffy noses, as well as saline drops in the nose, garlic and mulleinoil for ear infections and hot steamy showers to break up congestion and improve breathing.

According to traditional peditaricians, a child needs to have a 101 degree temperature before the medicine is going to work. A while many doctors agree that these medications do not necessarily help you get better, they also agree that it helps parents to feel as if they are “doing” something to help their child or themselves. Unfortunately, sometimes these drugs can slow down healing rather than help.

The body creates a temperature to destroy the bacteria that is in the body. By allowing a temperature to run its course, you allow your body to naturally heal and also create greater immunity to bacteria and viruses.

The best way to deal with avoiding colds and flu is staying well. The best way to stay well is to practice good health habits.Eating well, getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, drinking lots of fluids, reducing stress and, of course, washing your hands regularly before eating are all recommended ways to stay well and avoid the need for over the counter drugs.

With all good wishes,
Georgianna

Copyright 2010 G. Donadio