Cold and flu are often used in colder seasons. This is because of the dry winter air that causes mucous membranes to become dehydrated, making them less able to fight some respiratory viruses. These viruses come in hundreds, so you might catch one every year. As if the dark, cold nights weren’t enough!
Flu symptoms can be more severe than colds, and should therefore be treated more seriously. While colds typically last between two and seven days, there are often varying symptoms that appear during this period. Flu symptoms can last up to a week.
Highly contagious
Flu and cold are extremely contagious. They can quickly spread from one person to the next as virus transfer by air droplets. If you are infected, it is important to avoid contact with children and those with weaker immune systems.
Common symptoms of flu and cold
- Runny nose
- Nose and throat irritation
- Frequent sneezing
- Sore throat
- Congestion and stuffiness in the nasal cavity
- Dry cough
- Fever
- Chills
- Achy muscles
- Fatigue
- Muscular pains
- Appetite loss
Influenza or Flu
Influenza, also known as the flu, is an infection that affects the upper respiratory tract. It is more serious than a common cold. It can also spread to the lower respiratory tract and infect the lungs. This may cause chest pains and other symptoms.
Influenza is a common problem that affects almost half the world’s population every year. Influenza can be either seasonal or spread from person to person.
Flu can be fatal if left untreated.
Natural remedies for flu and cold symptoms
Natural home remedies are good if the symptoms aren’t severe. However, if you have persistent symptoms, it is important to seek professional medical advice.
These natural remedies have soothing effects.
1. Honey
Honey is known to boost your immune system. It is also very effective against flu and cold. Honey has both antibacterial and antiviral properties that can speed up recovery. Take one tablespoon of honey and a glass of warm or cold water. Drink it two to three times daily. It can be flavored with a few drops of lemon.
This soothing beverage will expel mucus, catarrh, and relieve irritation in the nose and throat.
2. Honey and onion juice
Take one tablespoon of the mixture of honey and onion juice three times daily. This mixture tastes much better than it sounds, and is more effective than any over-the-counter medicine.
The natural syrup acts as an expectorant, antibiotic, and anti-inflammatory agent. It also strengthens your immune system.
3. Honey and basil leaves
Basil leaves can be used to treat symptoms such as common cold, fever, and cough. High temperatures can be brought down by honey and the syrup and juice of basil leaves. Basil and honey are rich in various substances that help to mobilize mucus. This makes them an effective treatment for asthma and chronic bronchitis.
Take one teaspoon of honey and mix 10 to 15 basil leaves extracts.
4. Lemon
Lemon has antibacterial, antiviral and anti-fungal properties. The body uses it as a natural detoxifier and all of these properties help to fight the flu virus.
Take a squeezed lemon and add it to a cup of warm, boiled water. Drink this two or three times daily. You can also add one teaspoon honey to one spoonful of lemon juice. Then, pour this into a cup of warm, boiled water. Take this twice daily.
You can also make lemon steam. Inhale the steam by combining one lemon (peel and juice) with one cup of boiling water. Wait for five minutes. Repeat this process twice daily until you feel better or the store runs out of lemons.
5. Mustard
Because mustard contains anti-inflammatory properties, its healing properties can help relieve flu symptoms. You can decongest your nose and chest with the pungent scent.
Combine one tablespoon of dry mustard with four tablespoons of flour, one egg yolk, and warm water to make a paste. Spread the paste onto a clean muslin towel and cover it with another muslin towel. Put some olive oil on your chest, and then spread the mustard plaster over it for about 15 to 20 minutes.
Note: Do not use if your skin is sensitive. To test for allergic reactions, always rub the creams/ingredients on your inner wrist.
6. Ginger
Ginger has warming properties that can help with many health problems. Ginger’s anti-inflammatory properties help with flu symptoms. Its immune system boosting properties speed up recovery time and relieve weakness.
Mix half a teaspoon of fresh grated ginger with a cup boiling water to make ginger tea. Let it steep for five minutes. Strain it and then add one teaspoon honey and one teaspoon lemon. This tasty treat can help relieve flu symptoms.
7. Garlic
Garlic has antiseptic properties that make it very effective. It also contains allicin, which boosts immunity and relieves symptoms like flu and cold.
Make a garlic tea by chopping or crushing 2 to 3 cloves of garlic. Then, boil some water and let it sit for five minutes. After that, strain the mixture and enjoy it twice daily. A mixture of crushed garlic and honey can be made, which has antibacterial and/or antiviral properties.
Â
8. Hot soup
Although it sounds like a regular lunch, soup has many health benefits. It can improve your immune system, speed up recovery, and boost your immunity. As they help to keep you hydrated and healthy, such soups are chicken, garlic and miso, Thai hot and sour shrimp soup, and miso.
9. Use warm water and salt to gargle
Warm water and salt can be used to temporarily relieve a sore throat. Warm salt water is circulated around the throat to remove irritants such as bacteria, allergens, and fungi.
Gargling is a great way to relieve pain and inflammation in the nose and throat. Steam is a great way to clear the mucus. It thins it and makes it easier to breathe. Steam can also be used to relieve irritation and chest blockage in the breathing tubes.
Â
Â
