Flu Home Remedies

The term 'flu' is used to refer to a common viral infection known as influenza. The condition is a viral infection that affects the nose, throat, bronchial tubes, and lungs, including the upper respiratory system. Flu, in most cases, does not home any severe risks or complications and thus, the patient does not require hospital care. However, for people with a compromised immune system, flu may take on a fatal form, if left unattended.

The common symptoms which are indicative of a flu include fever over 38ºC in adults and in case of children, it is 39.5º - 40.5º C. Headache, dry cough, chills and sweats, nasal congestion, runny nose and of appetite are the other common indications of a flu. Symptoms may also include back aches, pain in arms and legs, fatigue, weakness, feeling of being washed out, diarrhea and, vomiting in children. Talking about the causes of flu, influenza A, B and C are the three types of virus which are responsible for bringing on the condition. Flu is also, highly contagious and can easily spread through sneezing, coughing and even talking. The viruses can travel through the air in droplets and can infect a healthy person.

Some Effective Home Remedies to Manage Influenza Symptoms

Rest is the foremost home remedy for flu. Getting ample amount of sleep helps the body to relax and its immune system to ward off the infection.

Homemade chicken soup is yet another remedy, followed by most. It not only tastes delicious, but also aids in taking care of the flu symptoms.

When flu is accompanied by fever, vomiting or diarrhea, the body suffers from dehydration. This can further aggravate the condition. So drink plenty of water including fruit juices, herbal teas, soda, electrolytic beverages, warm soups and keep the body well hydrated. Avoid coffee and other caffeinated drinks, as they serve as diuretics (any substance that tends to increase the flow of urine, which causes the body to get rid of excess water). Not to mention, turn a blind eye towards alcohol. That is the worst thing you can think to take while suffering from an illness such as a flu!

Among the herbs which are used as effective home remedies to manage flu, elderberry is one. This herb has been tested to bear antiviral activity against influenza types A and B. Apart from this, elderberry is also anti-inflammatory by nature. Studies have revealed that elderberry extract is helpful in getting rid of flu symptoms in just 2 - 3 days, followed by a complete recovery.

Another natural remedy to reduce flu symptoms is a herb known as licorice root. This herb is also anti-viral by nature and thus, helpful in not only the treatment of flu, but herpes and even hepatitis.

The spread of flu is rapid during the winter months. This is due to the fact that artificial heat lowers the humidity inside the house and this makes way for the flu virus to thrive easily. So, keeping indoors humidified is recommended. The moist air will not only prevent the spread of the flu, but also relieve nasal congestion.

Dry cough may keep you from getting enough sleep and it may tire the body. So, you may chew raw cloves of ginger root in order to lessen the cough, or take a mix of ginger with honey. Alternatively, you can mix some honey in a cup of hot water and take whenever you feel the need to cough. You may also squeeze some lemon for taste. Garlic is also considered to lessen the severity of the flu symptoms, when taken at the first signs of flu.

Home remedies for treating flu also include taking fruits rich in Vitamin C like oranges, grapefruits, lemons, papaya, guava, pomelo, dalanghita, anonas, kasuy, datiles, atis, tomato, balimbing, guyabano, mango, etc. Vitamin C helps to boost the immune system and thus, curbs the condition from worsening further.

Following these many home remedies must work well for you to get rid of your flu. However, if they don't, then do not contemplate on the thought to pay a visit to a doctor at the earliest.