Home Remedies for Cold and Flu: Effective Ways to Beat Symptoms
Cold and flu are two of the most prevalent illnesses during cold seasons. They are caused by viruses that affect the respiratory system, making it difficult for an individual to breathe, eat and sleep. The common symptoms of a cold and flu are a runny nose, coughs, sore throat, body aches, and fever. While there are over-the-counter drugs that can help alleviate these symptoms, home remedies can be just as effective in relieving the symptoms without the added expense of medication. In this post, we'll take you through some of the best home remedies for cold and flu that you can try.
What are home remedies for cold and flu?
Home remedies for cold and flu are natural treatments that are known to work wonders when it comes to relieving the symptoms of a cold and flu. They include things like drinking warm liquids, consuming immune-boosting foods and supplements, getting enough rest, and practicing good hygiene. Home remedies for cold and flu are usually inexpensive and accessible, as most require items that you already have in your kitchen.
What are the most effective home remedies for cold and flu?
1. Rest
One of the most effective home remedies for cold and flu is rest. When you are feeling sick, your body is fighting an infection that drains your energy. Resting will allow your body to channel as much energy as possible towards fighting off the virus, and accelerating the healing process. Make sure you get plenty of sleep, and avoid overexerting yourself.
2. Drink warm liquids
Drinking warm liquids is another effective home remedy for colds and flu. It helps keep you hydrated while soothing a sore throat and congestion. Try drinking warm water with honey and lemon, herbal teas, broth, or warm fruit juices.
3. Gargle with saltwater
Gargling with saltwater is an age-old home remedy for sore throat and congestion. Mix a half-teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and gargle the solution at the back of your throat. Doing this several times a day can help relieve symptoms of a sore throat and coughing.
4. Consume immune-boosting foods and supplements
To help your body fight off the cold and flu virus, you need to consume immune-boosting foods and supplements. Foods that are high in Vitamin C, such as oranges, grapefruit, broccoli, bell peppers, and spinach, can help boost your immune system. Zinc supplements can also be effective in speeding up the healing process and reducing the severity of symptoms.
5. Use essential oils
Essential oils such as eucalyptus and peppermint have properties that can help alleviate symptoms of congestion, coughing, and sore throat. You can either apply a few drops on a tissue, inhale it directly or add it to your humidifier for additional relief.
FAQs about Home Remedies for Cold and Flu
Q: How long does a cold or flu last?
A: A cold can last for 7-10 days, while the flu can take up to two weeks to recover.
Q: Do home remedies always work for colds and flu?
A: While home remedies may not work for everyone, they are a great place to start when trying to alleviate symptoms of colds and flu.
Q: Can exercise help alleviate cold and flu symptoms?
A: Exercise is not recommended when you are sick, as it can cause more harm than good when your body is already run down.
Q: When should I see a doctor?
A: If your symptoms persist for more than a week, or if you experience difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain or high fever, you should see a doctor immediately.
In conclusion
The flu and cold can be challenging to deal with, but with some of these effective home remedies, you can alleviate the symptoms and speed up the recovery time. While these remedies may not work the same for everyone, they are a great place to start when it comes to fighting off the virus that causes colds and flu. Remember to listen to your body and get enough rest, and when in doubt, always consult your doctor.
