Home Remedies for Flu

Influenza, also known as the flu or grippe, is an infectious viral disease that affects the upper respiratory system, including your lungs, throat, and nose. It is one of the most common health problems, afflicting people across the globe. The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. These viruses spread through the air from person to person.

Signs and symptoms of flu may include:

·       fever

·       cough

·       runny nose

·       muscle or body aches

·       headaches

·       fatigue

·       vomiting

·       diarrhea

It is important to begin treatment as soon as symptoms appear because influenza can lead to other health complications like ear infections, pneumonia, and bronchitis. Prescribed antiviral drugs may ease symptoms. However, in many cases, simple home remedies can alleviate mild to moderate flu symptoms.

Here are natural remedies for the flu:

Drink up.

 The flu can leave you dehydrated, especially if have vomiting or diarrhea. So be sure to get enough fluids. Water is fine. So are fruit juices and electrolyte beverages. You may want to stay away from caffeinated drinks because caffeine is a diuretic. Herbal tea with honey can soothe a sore throat. If you feel nauseated, try taking small sips of liquids -- gulps might cause you to throw up. How can you be sure you’re getting enough fluid? Your urine should be pale yellow, almost colorless.

Sip some soup. 

For generations, caring parents have been serving chicken soup to kids with colds and flu. However, was a mom right? Possibly. A study published in the journal Chest showed that chicken soup might help with symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections like the flu.

Honey.

 Honey is known to boost the immune system and help reduce symptoms of the common flu. It also has antibacterial and antimicrobial properties that can speed up the healing process.

·    Simply take one tablespoon of honey with a glass of water several times a day.

·     Mix one tablespoon of honey in one cup of hot water. If you want, add a few drops of lemon juice. This soothing drink will promote mucus flow and help reduce irritation and itchiness in your throat. Drink it two or three times a day.

·   Mix equal amounts of honey and onion juice. Have one teaspoon of this mixture three times a day, until the flu is gone.

·       You can also combine one teaspoon of honey with the juice extracted from 10 to 15 fresh basil leaves. Take this once a day.

    

      Humidify.

   

   Breathing moist air helps ease nasal congestion and sore throat pain. One good strategy is to indulge in a steamy shower several times a day -- or just turn on the shower and sit in the bathroom for a few minutes, inhaling the steam. Another is to use a steam vaporizer or a humidifier. Clean it often to make sure it is free of mold and mildew.

     Line up a caregiver. 

    A caregiver cannot lower your temperature or cure a sore throat, but “having someone to tuck you into bed and bring you fluids is very comforting,” says Black welder. If a friend or family member offers to help, even if it has only to stop by and check in on you, count your blessings -- and take them up on it.