Catching a cold or flu is often inconvenient and unpleasant. It is also, to some extent, avoidable if you take preventative action. Natural remedies not only boost resistance— they can also help to shorten the duration of the illness if you do succumb to a virus.
Home Remedies for Cold and Flu
Herbs
Antimicrobial herbs help to fight the infection and can be supported with herbs that boost immunity. Herbs that promote sweating and reduce fever can help to manage these illnesses.
Elderberry
Elderberry has proven antiviral activity to help fight infection.
-Make a fresh berry syrup in autumn or buy a syrup. Take 1–2 tsp daily.
Echinacea
Echinacea is antimicrobial, antiinflammatory, and boosts white blood cells. Avoid with immunosuppressants.
-Take 1.5–2.5ml extract in water 3 times daily, or see remedy, right with elderberry.
Elderflower
Elderflower promotes sweating to lower fever, and is soothing and anti-phlegm.
– Infuse 1–2 tsp dried elderflower in 6fl oz (175ml) boiling water. Drink 3–4 times daily.
Yarrow
Yarrow induces sweating and is antiinfective. Avoid in pregnancy or if sensitive to Asteraceae plants. Overuse can increase skin photosensitivity.
– Infuse 1–2 tsp dried yarrow in 6fl oz (175ml) boiling water. Drink 3–4 times daily.
ESSENTIAL OILS Oils
ESSENTIAL OILS Oils can relieve a cough, sore throat, and congestion, and the fatigue or fever of flu.
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus is a decongestant.
Ravintsara
Ravintsara is an effective antimicrobial.
– Add 5 drops of oil to a bowl of hot water to inhale or 2 drops to a diffuser. Or, add 3 drops to 2 tsp (5ml) almond oil for a chest rub.
Peppermint
Peppermint is cooling, helping to relieve fever and headache.
– Add 5 drops to a bowl of hot water, lean over, covering your head with a towel to trap the steam, and inhale until it cools. Or add 2 drops to a diffuser and inhale.
FOOD
When suffering with a cold or flu, eat light, nutrient-dense meals with complex carbohydrates and drink plenty of fluids.
Garlic and onions
Garlic and onions (preferably raw) are antibacterial and antiviral.
– Add a chopped garlic clove or a chopped raw onion to a soup or vegetables after cooking.
Citrus fruits
Citrus fruits are rich in vitamin C, which can help to speed recovery.
– Have a glass of fresh orange or grapefruit juice daily.
Shiitake
Shiitake, maitake, and reishi mushrooms have immune-boosting beta-glucans.
– Use instead of regular mushrooms.
WHAT TO AVOID
Sugar
Sugar, which rapidly depresses immune function.
SUPPLEMENTS
Supporting the diet when immunity is low can be beneficial.
Aged garlic extract
Aged garlic extract can significantly reduce the severity and duration of colds and flu.
– Take 2.5 g daily
Propolis
Propolis is rich in bioflavonoids, thought to give it antiviral properties.
– Take 500 mg 1–2 times a day to relieve symptoms.
LIFESTYLE
Stress
Stress is the main contributor to lowered immunity, so take measures to relax.
Regular gentle exercise
Regular gentle exercise boosts circulation and immunity, but pushing past your limits may weaken immunity.
Cover your mouth when sneezing
Cover your mouth when sneezing and wash hands to avoid reinfection and spreading germs to other people.
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