To validate aforementioned suggestions ....
Echinacea: Studies show it has the ability to stimulate the immune system and is effective in treating viral infections such as flu.
The normal recommended dose is 3-4ml of alcoholic extract or 300mg of powdered herb (in tablet form), taken three times a day at the first sign of infection.
Echinacea can occasionally give rise to an allergic reaction. It is safe to use around the time of surgery, and can be used during pregnancy and breast-feeding.
Garlic: Popular for helping to stave off infection, garlic has proven anti-bacterial and antiviral properties. Regular garlic consumption has also been linked with a reduced risk of heart dis-ease and certain cancers.
A raw clove of garlic or 600-900mg of garlic preparation each day seems to be a safe dose.
The main concern is because of garlic's blood-thinning properties. It should be used with caution by those on blood-thinning medication such as warfarin.
To reduce the risk of unwanted bleeding, garlic should be discontinued a week before surgery. Garlic is safe to use during preg-nancy and breast-feeding.