When a change of season is in the cards, everyone gets their fair share of having the flu –at least four times a year! Although there are countless kinds of medication that will help fight the flu, sometimes you wish there were natural ways that can help you, instead of opting for meds.
According to Healthline, the flu is caused by several kinds of viruses. There’s no cure for it, but you can take home remedies that help soothe the symptoms. Dr. Debra Rose Wilson, a holistic healthcare practitioner, shares natural ways that can help combat flu at home.
Rinse with salt water
A warm water and salt rinse (sometimes called a saltwater gargle) can soothe a sore throat. It can also help to clear mucus. Here’s how to rinse with salt water:
- Boil or heat up water and let it cool until it’s warm or at room temperature. Mix 1/2 tsp salt to 8 ounces of warm water.
- Pull the salt water to the back of your throat, and gargle for about 10 to 30 seconds so it rinses your mouth and throat.
- Spit the water into a sink and repeat 2 to 4 times.
Not recommended for kids who do know how to gargle!
Herbal tea
According to Healthline, several herbs have natural antiviral and antibacterial properties. Star anise is a star-shaped spice from which oseltamivir – an antiviral medication – was traditionally extracted.
Other herbs that may help are green leafy herbs, because they contain germ-fighting and antioxidant benefits. Herbal tea can also help your body fight off the virus and help with sinuses.
Essential oils to use
A study shared by Healthline shows that tea-tree oils are best to help protect you against flu viruses. It’s recommended that the sickling in question uses tea tree oil at least two hours after catching the virus, to stop the virus from multiplying.
There are also other plant based oils that can aid as ‘natural antibiotics’ and antivirals:
- cinnamon oil.
- peppermint oil.
- eucalyptus oil.
- geranium oil.
- lemon oil.
- thyme oil.
Be aware though, essential oils are hyper-concentrated and can be toxic. However, most essential oils can be used on the skin after they’re mixed and diluted with oils like almond or olive oil. Adding fresh, dried herbs and spices to your food will give you similar benefits.
Inhaling a steam
Steam inhalation can help loosen a blocked nose, sinuses, throat, and lungs. The moisture from the warm water also relieves swelling in the nose and lungs. Steam inhalation might help to soothe a dry cough, irritated nose, and chest tightness.
Written for Bona.
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