Bangkok Post: The world windows to Thailand

HEALTH

The Public Health Ministry is recommending three herbs used to fight seasonal flu as probably being effective in protecting against A (H1N1) flu.

They are local herb fah talai jon (Andrographis paniculata), ginger and garlic.

Anchalee Chuthaputti, deputy director of the Institute of Thai Traditional Medicine, said fah talai jon's clinical studies show it is effective in easing flu symptoms such as sore throats and diarrhoea.

Moreover, the latest clinical study in Taiwan found the herb has a medicinal effect on cells infected with flu types similar to the pandemic virus strain.

"The result is fascinating. It gives us hope of having an alternative medicine to deal with the deadly disease," said Ms Anchalee. However, for medical purposes, fah talai jon should be taken for one week after developing a fever, with a recommended amount of six grammes per day. Over-consumption could result in the side-effect of weak muscles, she said.

Supaporn Pitiporn, head of the pharmacy division of Chaophaya Abhaibhubejhr Hospital in Prachin Buri which is famous for herbal medicines, said research has shown that children who regularly consume the herb for three months are half as likely to be infected with flu.

Moreover, it can minimise coughing, sneezing and body aches.

She also recommended ginger and garlic, which she said were effective in easing flu symptoms.