Some tips for fighting the flu at home

Influenza is an infectious respiratory disease caused by viruses. Antiviral drugs are used to treat the disease. But in many cases, flu symptoms can be alleviated with the help of folk remedies.

How to alleviate the condition?

To alleviate the condition of a person with the flu, it is not necessary to immediately resort to medication. Sometimes just a good rest and improvised natural remedies are enough.

Rest is recognized as one of the simplest and most effective ways to help a sick body recuperate. The second thing to keep an eye on is the amount of water consumed. During illness, the body quickly dehydrates, so it is important to restore fluid loss. The best for these purposes is water rich in electrolytes.

Washing the nose is another effective method that allows you to alleviate the symptoms of the disease at home. Such manipulations allow viruses and mucus to be washed out of the sinuses, which contributes to faster recovery. For rinsing use distilled or filtered water.

Steam inhalation, a warm bath, a shower, as well as the use of a humidifier in the room help to activate the outflow of mucus and thereby facilitate breathing for the patient. Inhalation of steam has a beneficial effect on the respiratory tract ^[1].

Foods and Supplements Helpful for the Flu

To alleviate the condition during illness will help the use of the right foods, vitamins and trace elements.

Berries

Many berries, such as elderberry, contain specific substances called polyphenols. They have pronounced immunomodulatory and antioxidant properties. Researchers conducted an experiment during which patients with influenza type B took elderberry extract for 3 days. Symptoms of the disease disappeared faster in 46,7% of the participants in the experience ^[2].

Echinacea

In the roots of some types of echinacea, scientists have found antiviral components that help the immune system fight influenza type A. ^[3]. In addition, hot tea with echinacea has about the same effect on the body as an antiviral drug, but minimizes the risk of side effects and complications.

Ginseng

In the East, ginseng root is used to treat various diseases. This plant can also be useful for influenza. Scientists have found that ginseng root helps fight upper respiratory tract infections, while taking the herbal extract alleviates flu symptoms and speeds up the healing process. ^[2].

Lakrica

Useful properties of licorice (licorice) researchers have been studying for years. Today it is known that the root of this plant contains about 300 flavonoids and other components with antiviral and immunomodulatory properties. ^[4]. This feature makes licorice an excellent natural remedy for influenza (prevents the replication of viruses) and some other viral infections.

But it is worth considering that licorice is contraindicated for pregnant women.

Badian

Star anise (star anise) root also contains some antiviral compounds. In particular, spirooligananon, which helps the body resist influenza type A ^[5]. In addition, star anise contains shikimic acid, which has antiviral properties.

Dandelion

By studying the effect of dandelion on influenza viruses, scientists found that an aqueous extract of the plant (0,625-5 mg / ml) reduces the risk of infection of the lungs with influenza A virus. The researchers suggest that this effect is achieved by reducing the rate of virus replication ^[6]. You don’t have to take dandelion extract to experience the benefits of dandelion. It is enough to add greens to tea, soup or salad.

Milkweed

A good remedy for the prevention and treatment of influenza is euphorbia. According to studies, this plant contains xanthones – specific compounds with antiviral properties. True, we are not talking about all spurges, but only about the variety Polygala karensium ^[7].

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is not only a fragrant and beloved spice by many, but also an excellent natural antiviral medicine. So, at the time of illness, it is worth taking care that it is present in food. The exception is pregnant women, for whom the spice is prohibited.

Probiotics

Bifidobacteria are well known to all lovers of yogurt and kefir. But many do not even realize that probiotics not only improve the functioning of the digestive system, but also strengthen the immune system, including increasing resistance to influenza viruses.

Zinc

For the human body, this trace element is indispensable for several reasons.

One of them is strengthening the immune system. Therefore, during an illness, it is worth including foods containing zinc in your diet. And these are red meat, chicken, seafood, beans, nuts, whole grains and dairy products.

Vitamins C and D

Because these vitamins have antioxidant properties, they can be extremely helpful when fighting the flu and other viral respiratory illnesses. There is a lot of vitamin C in citrus fruits, rose hips, black currants. Good sources of vitamin D: dairy products, egg yolk, cheese, oily fish. By the way, the human body can independently synthesize vitamin D – it is enough to spend at least 15 minutes a day in the sun.

Other Helpful Natural Remedies

Many other foods have potential antioxidant and antiviral properties:

• garlic;
• turmeric;
• ginger;
• honey;
• cloves;
• peppermint;
• eucalyptus;
• green and black tea;
• thyme;
• oregano.

When choosing natural remedies for treatment, it is important to remember that some of them are contraindicated for pregnant women and young children. So, expectant mothers should avoid licorice, cinnamon, dandelion, and babies should not be given star anise.

When not to do without a doctor?

Even if the flu is mild, you should consult your doctor before taking any natural remedy. Do not self-medicate if the following symptoms are present:

• hyperthermia 38 degrees and above;
• chest pain;
• labored breathing;
• dizziness and confusion;
• cyanosis of the lips and face;
• severe headache and muscle pain;
• convulsions;
• dehydration.

Also, do not hesitate to visit a doctor if, despite home treatment, the condition worsens. With a mild course of the disease, natural medicines will only help.

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