In today’s post, I will be sharing some home remedies for colds and flu to help combat those nasty symptoms that could include fever, sore throat, cough, body aches, nasal congestion, and more.
Prescription antiviral drugs might be useful for easing flu symptoms when you start taking them shortly after falling ill. But, in many cases, these simple home remedies for colds and flu can be used for mild to moderate flu symptoms and get you back on your feet in no time.
10 Home Remedies For Colds And Flu
Staying Hydrated
Flu can lead to dehydration, particularly if you have diarrhoea or vomiting symptoms. Make sure you drink loads of fluids, like fruit juices, electrolytes, and water to stay hydrated. Try to avoid caffeinated drinks like coffee or energy drinks that are diuretic.
Herbal tea can go a long way in soothing a sore throat but stick to small sips if you feel nauseous. A good indication of whether you are getting enough fluids is pale yellow or colourless urine.
Sipping on Homemade Some Soup
People have been giving chicken soup to family members with cold or flu symptoms for generations. But does it really help? Possibly, according to a study that was published in the Chest journal. It revealed that chicken soup might assist with providing relief for upper respiratory tract infections, such as the flu.
When you inhale the vapour rising from a bowl of steaming chicken soup, it makes you feel better. It could also have something to do with feeling good about someone making homemade soup for you.
Taking it Easy
Always do what your body is telling you. Take it easy if you need to. Don’t do exercise if you are not feeling well. Spend all day on the couch and watch movies, or read a book. Whatever your body needs to heal. Rest and good sleep cycles assists the body’s immune system to work well and to fight off infection. It is essential to get at least eight hours of sleep.
Gargling With Salt Water
Gargling with salt water is especially useful for eliminating thick mucus that builds up in the back of your throat, particularly after lying down. It can also provide relief for stuffy ears.
Humidifying
Breathing in moist air assists with easing nasal congestion and soothing a sore throat. You can also take a hot shower shortly before bedtime. Steam vaporizers or humidifiers are excellent devices for easing cold and flu symptoms. Just make sure it is cleaned regularly and free from mildew or mold.
Steaming
A fast way to open up clogged airways is by steaming with boiling water and a towel. Simply bring water to the boil and place a towel over your head. Inhale the steam through your nose for around thirty seconds.
You can also add a drop of eucalyptus or peppermint essential oil to give you additional phlegm-fighting power. Do it as frequently as you can to get rid of congestion and to breathe better while sleeping.
Ginger Root
Ginger root has been used for ages to aid with various health issues, including providing relief for sore throat and cough. Simply add a few slices of raw ginger to boiling water to make a tea. Ginger tea is also effective for alleviating nausea.
Nasal Irrigation
To provide relief for post-nasal drip and to ease a stuffy nose, or even getting rid of a sinus infection, you can try nasal irrigation. You can purchase a neti pot at your local drugstore or health food store or use a squeeze bottle to rinse your nasal passages with a saline solution of salt and water. Pre-made saline solution can be bought at local pharmacies as well.
Honey
Honey contains both antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. Making tea with honey and lemon can provide relief for a sore throat, plus it can help to suppress the severity of cough and cold symptoms.
Never give honey to babies younger than one year old because their fragile immune systems cannot protect them against the botulinum spores that are present in honey.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is essential for boosting your immune system and has many health benefits. Along with leafy greens, limes, grapefruits, oranges, and other vegetables and fruits, lemons are an excellent source of vitamin C.
Tea with fresh lemon juice and honey can also eliminate phlegm when you have the flu or a common cold. You can also opt for cold or hot lemonade. Getting sufficient vitamin C can help with relieving illnesses and upper respiratory tract infections.
Conclusion
I hope you have found these 10 home remedies for colds and flu helpful and that you will give some of them a try to relieve symptoms of mild to moderate colds or flu.
Sending you lots of healing vibes, light, and wellness.