Nature Holds the Cure for Flu

As winter approaches, Phytotherapy Specialist Dr. Ümit Aktaş emphasizes that the flu vaccine is not protective against the influenza virus spreading rapidly, particularly among children, and even has serious side effects. "Research shows that the flu vaccine provides 9 percent protection in patients over 65 years of age. For a vaccine to be effective, it must provide at least 90 percent protection. A vaccine that protects 9 percent is not a vaccine! Research conducted on children under 2 years of age, who are an important risk group for influenza virus, has also failed to establish that the vaccine is safe," he says.

Only 14 Percent of Physicians Get the Flu Vaccine

Noting that the flu vaccine is not included in any country's mandatory vaccination program worldwide, Dr. Ümit Aktaş states, "A study conducted at Akdeniz University shows that only 14 percent of physicians receive the flu vaccine, while 86 percent do not receive it. When the results revealed by research on a scientific scale are clear, why would you have yourself, your family, and your child vaccinated with a vaccine that even physicians avoid?" he asks.

A Strong Immune System Matters

Stating that instead of getting the flu vaccine to protect against influenza, consumption of foods that strengthen the immune system and adherence to hygiene rules are necessary, Dr. Ümit Aktaş says, "Our immune system also develops through previous bouts of influenza. In other words, those who have been in frequent contact with influenza virus in the past have higher resistance to the flu compared to those who have not been exposed. Simply developing a habit of regular hand washing and ensuring regular ventilation of enclosed spaces is quite important in protecting against flu outbreaks. Washing your hands regularly and frequently with olive oil soap alone can protect you from the flu by 70 percent," he says.

Consume Fermented Foods

Emphasizing the importance of fermented foods in protecting against influenza by strengthening the immune system, Dr. Ümit Aktaş says, "Keep homemade pickles, yogurt, vinegar, and turnip juice abundantly on your table. Do not neglect regularly consuming head and trotters soup." Dr. Ümit Aktaş also lists what should be done for rapid recovery shortly after catching the flu:

• Get plenty of rest.
• Consume abundant fluids.
• Ventilate your space frequently.
• Plenty of head and trotters soup, tripe soup, and tarhana soup. These are soups containing fermented foods that support your immunity.
• Consume caper pickles abundantly. Caper is antiviral; it kills viruses.

Ginger, Sage and Clove with Zero Chemicals

Reminding that like every illness, the cure for influenza lies in nature, Dr. Ümit Aktaş says, "If you catch the flu frequently, benefit from herbs. With ginger, sage, and clove, you can support your body with natural cures without consuming chemicals."

Dr. Ümit Aktaş's Flu Tea Cure Recipe:

Ingredients: Dried ginger root, 3 cloves, 1 teaspoon medicinal sage Preparation: Add ginger root about the size of your thumb joint and 3 cloves to 1 glass of boiling water. Boil for 6 minutes with the lid closed. After turning off the heat, add 1 teaspoon medicinal sage. Close the lid again and let it steep for 10 minutes without boiling. Drink when cooled. Adults can consume 1 glass of this flu tea every 2 hours. For children, it should be given in 1 teacup measure.