The sun may be out, but that doesn’t mean the colds pack up and go away – they are here all year round! Here are 10 soothing cold & flu remedies you can use at home to treat the uncomfortable symptoms of viral infections, and help you feel yourself again.
Ginger
The health benefits of ginger are endless, and the root has been used in medicine for centuries. But modern day technology has revealed to us its true curative properties. A few slices of raw ginger boiled in water, may help soothe a sore throat and dry cough. Further research has proven that it can ward off nausea which often accompanies influenza.
Chicken Soup
It’s true, chicken soup really is a great choice when you’re sick; it might not be a “cure” but it can ease some of the symptoms. Warmed chicken soup with fresh vegetables can slow down the movement of neutrophils; these are a type of white blood cell, and they work to protect you from infection. Slowing them down means they are more concentrated in the areas that need more healing power. Not only that, but chicken soup also has the ability to reduce symptoms of upper respiratory infections, plus it keeps you hydrated and has great nutritional value.
Honey
This natural sweet treat has a variety of antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. Honey is a very effective cough suppressant, and drinking it with lemon in your tea can soothe a sore throat. A teaspoon of honey before bed can reduce the severity of your cough symptoms. However, do not give honey to babies; their immune systems aren’t strong enough to fight off the botulinum spores.
Echinacea
The root of the echinacea plant has been used to treat infections for centuries; its ingredients include flavonoids which have therapeutic effects on the body such as reducing inflammation and boosting the immune system. It’s ability to fight of flu and common colds is debated, but research suggests taking echinacea daily could significantly reduce your chances of catching a viral infection, and could also reduce the length and severity of your cold. Adults should take 2 grams of echinacea root three times a day for a week if they feel symptoms of a cold developing.
Vitamin C
This vitamin plays a very important role in the body; it strengthens your immune system and prevents cold and flu viruses from developing. Oranges, limes, lemons, grapefruits, leafy greens, and most other fruits and veg are all good sources of vitamin C. Adding a fresh lemon slice to hot water could help to reduce phlegm, and open up blocked airways. Getting enough of the vitamin may help to relieve upper respiratory tract infections.
