The Flu Shot and Yogi Tea

Today I had my very first flu shot.  I've always been wary of unnecessary vaccinations and have avoided getting my yearly free shot.  However, last January I go the flu.  I've had it twice in my lifetime and pray that it will never happen again each time.  So today, as my coworkers began lining up I thought, "Why not"?  First, I was surprised at the amount of pain one little shot could cause when injected into your shoulder.  (Why don't they put it in a meatier spot I wondered to myself).  Then within hours I began to develop a headache, sore throat, fever, and aches.  My body appears to be reacting to something, hopefully my immune system will win.  To combat the virus I made a very healthy dinner including citrus glazed carrots and wild rice.  That'll show 'em who's boss.  I did a little research on the flu shot and it turns out that I was right to avoid it after all. Only three strains are used, which were guessed at my researches many, many moons ago.  It's level of effecitiveness isn't great even if you do get the exact strain covered by the immunization. So in short, its a lot of discomfort for no reward.  Not to mention that they put all kinds of bad things in those shots and I'm not talking about the virus either.  So to ease my achiness and fight off whatever is bearing down on my immune system I stopped at the store and picked up some yogi tea.  Their immunity tea has everything except the kitchen sink (including echniacea) and is quite tasty.  It was not very expensive, readily available, and full of good things.  I'll keep you posted on my battle with the bug. 

This is a link to the yogi tea website for additional information. 

Here is some information on the tea I am drinking (on the website you can click the links to learn more about the herbs and their uses:

Echinacea Immune Support  Tea for your body – Defense

95% ORGANIC CAFFEINE FREE

FIND STRENGTH IN ECHINACEA IMMUNE SUPPORT Our blend of astragalus, elderberry and several species of echinacea can strengthen your defenses by stimulating production of immune system proteins. We complement this wellness formula with lively lemongrass and peppermint to help promote clear breathing while adding a fragrant essence and exquisite taste. It is sure to become an all-season favorite!* GET THE MOST OUT OF EVERY CUP When your immune system needs support, drink 2 to 3 cups per day. For a stronger effect, use 2 tea bags. For increased immune stimulation, drink up to 5 cups per day.* INGREDIENTS Organic Peppermint Leaf, Organic Lemongrass, Organic Echinacea Root (Angustifolia, Purpurea, Pallida), Organic Cinnamon Bark, Organic Licorice Root, Organic Spearmint Leaf,Organic Fennel Seed, Organic Lemon Flavor, Organic Cardamom Seed, Echinacea Purpurea Root Extract (Phenols 12%), Organic Rose Hip, Organic Ginger Root, Organic  Burdock Root, Organic Clove Bud, Organic Mullein Leaf, Stevia Leaf, Organic Black Pepper, Astragalus Root Extract, European Elderberry Extract (Anthocyanins 30%), Natural Cinnamon Oil,Natural Cardamom Oil, Natural Ginger Oil

This is a link to the CDC's 2008-2009 Influenza Vaccine Update.