Feeling under the weather is never fun, but when it's flu season and everyone around you is sniffling and sneezing, it can feel like a lost cause. Before you reach for over-the-counter remedies or succumb to your bed for days on end, try some of these natural treatments that may ease your symptoms.
Keep Hydrated with Some Good Ol' H2O
Water, the elixir of life! Staying hydrated is one of the best things you can do for yourself when fighting off any illness. Not only does water keep mucous membranes moist (which help fend off viruses), but it also helps flush out toxins from your body.
Pro Tip: Aim to drink at least 8 cups of water per day while battling the flu virus.
Have a Ginger Moment
Ginger root has been used as an anti-inflammatory agent since ancient times! It contains compounds which suppress coughs as well as relieve pain associated with sore throats.
Pro Tip: Grate fresh ginger into warm lemon tea mixture and add honey instead of sugar – instant relief!
Time For Garlic Party
Garlic possesses antiviral properties that can give positive results in combating influenza viruses1. Garlic works by inhibiting viral replication, downregulating cytokines expression (signaling molecules in inflammation) and modulating immune functions thus preventing viral infection 1 .
- Add sautéed garlic to soups
- Boil garlic cloves with milk before going to sleep
- Make delicious homemade & organic garlic bread
- Toss raw garlic on salads
The possibilities are endless! Get creative in incorporating this smelly superfood.
Get Some Good Restful Sleep
Getting enough rest isn't just important for overall health; it also plays a huge role in recovering from illnesses like flus. When our bodies are at rest, they can focus all their energy on fighting the virus.
Pro Tip: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep every night and avoid caffeine or unnecessary screen time to help with falling asleep
Turn up The Heat With Chili Peppers
Spice lovers, rejoice! Capsaicin, the active compound in chili peppers, can help reduce inflammation and relieve pain associated with various illnesses. Plus, it works wonders for clearing sinuses!
Pro Tip: Add some freshly chopped jalapenos to your soup - this will undoubtedly clear out any congestion you may have!
Up Your Vitamin C Game
While vitamin C may not be a surefire way of preventing illness or curing the flu altogether, taking high doses during an infection is proven helpful 2 . You can either boost your intake through supplements or increase consumption of fruits that are rich in vitamin C such as oranges.
Pro Tip: Having warm cups of lemon ginger tea with honey & cinnamon definitely helps relieve flu symptoms while increasing Vitamin-C dose too!
Get Moving With Some Light Exercise
Even though it's tough enough just getting out of bed when feeling sick; light exercise has been said to stimulate white blood cell production -- which helps fight off viruses 3. It also releases endorphins which provide natural feel-good benefits like reducing fatigue and improving mood.
Pro tip: Take a walk around the block if possible - spending time outdoors provides fresh air & sunlight both mark significant contributions towards faster recovery from sickness
Chamomile Tea For A Peaceful Night's Sleep
Chamomile contains compounds that promote relaxation by binding receptors in our brain neurons. Soak dried chamomile flowers in hot water to make a calming tea that'll help you relax before bedtime!
Conclusion:
In conclusion these five tips will definitely improve your comfort levels but there’s no better alternative than plenty of rest coupled with good nutrition. It's important to note that while these home remedies may provide some relief, they don’t replace proper medical advice from a healthcare professional. Stay healthy everyone!