Best Natural Ways to Treat Common Flu

By | August 25, 2022

Flu is very common during weather changes. It is a type of viral infection that attacks the respiratory system. When a person gets the flu; the nose, throat, and lungs get affected. Different viruses can cause flu. The flu can cause a mild or severe illness. Most of the symptoms of flu are similar to colds. But the symptoms of colds develop slowly whereas the flu symptoms appear immediately. 

Best Natural Ways to Treat Common Flu

Symptoms of common flu

  1. Fever
  2. Headache
  3. Chills and sweats
  4. Sore throat
  5. Eye pain
  6. Dry, persistent cough
  7. Runny nose
  8. Tiredness
  9. Fatigue
  10. Vomiting diarrhea

If the symptoms of common flu are severe then you should talk to a holistic doctor in NJ. If the flu is severe, you should seek good medical help.

Top natural remedies to treat common flu

Drink water and fluids

Drinking a good amount of water is good for your health. But when you have the flu, drinking water becomes more essential. Whether you have the respiratory flu or stomach flu, start drinking an adequate amount of water. Drinking water keeps the nose and mouth moist to prevent irritation. When you have the flu, your eating routine breaks which can lead to diarrhea. Diarrhea issues are very common in the flu. To prevent diarrhea, you need to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water to reduce other symptoms. You can also drink coconut water, soup, herbal tea, sports drinks, broth, etc.

Get enough rest

When you have the flu, your body can’t work properly. The body aches and you might feel fatigued. To regain stamina and boost your immune system, you need good sleep. Daily 8 hours of sleep is not enough for you. Cancel your outside plans and get some rest at home. With proper rest, your body will feel fresh and the symptoms of flu will be reduced. 

Take a good amount of zinc

Zinc is one of the most important minerals for the body. This mineral helps in producing WBC which helps in fighting germs. It fights the flu virus to reduce the symptoms. Certain zinc supplements are available to treat the flu. If you don’t want to take supplements then eat zinc-rich food items such as red meat, lentils, nuts, shellfish, chickpeas, beans, dairy, eggs, etc.

Drink warm broth

Drinking a warm chicken broth is a good remedy to treat the flu. It is very helpful in reducing nasal congestion. Bone broth contains a high protein that helps in rebuilding immune cells. You can purchase warm broth from restaurants. Various broth soup powders are also available at the stores. Otherwise, you can also make broth at home with chicken. 

Drink herbal tea

Herbal tea is good for your body as it fights the viruses that treat the body. Herbs have antibacterial properties that help in fighting all ailments of the body. Herbal teas also reduce sinus congestion and treat sore throat. You can make herbal tea using green tea, turmeric, garlic, cloves, fresh or dried ginger, etc. You can use pure honey to add sweetness to the tea. Honey is also good for treating common flu. 

Use a humidifier

If the weather is dry, you should use a humidifier. The flu can survive more if the indoor air is dry. The flu can spread easily and the whole family may get it. In winters, people often use heading devices that dry all indoor air. Use a good humidifier at your home that can help in reducing flu.

Take steam

For cold and flu, taking steam can be very helpful. Boil water in a pot and breathe all the steam. This steam reduces nose and sinus congestion. You can add inhaling drops or Vicks to the water for better relief. It reduces dry cough, chest tightness, and nasal irritation. If you get cold often then get a vaporizer. You can easily take steam and reduce flu symptoms. 

Eat bland food items

When you have the flu, digestion becomes difficult. You should also think about your stomach. To prevent indigestion, eat food items that are easy to digest. You can take a BRAT diet (banana, rice, applesauce, toast). Other items to eat on flu are cooked cereals, boiled potatoes, soups, broth, boiled chicken, etc. Avoid all types of food items that can irritate the stomach such as cheese, meats, fried food, caffeine, fatty foods, alcohol, etc. 

When to visit a doctor?

In most people, the flu disappears in 4-5 days. Taking natural remedies to fight the flu viruses and the person starts feeling well in 2-3 days. But if you are getting any bigger symptoms then you should immediately visit a doctor. Emergency symptoms include:

  1. Severe chest pain
  2. Seizures
  3. Severe muscle pain
  4. Blue lips
  5. Difficulty in breathing
  6. Worsening the existing medical condition 

Severe diarrhea, etc. If you inspect these types of symptoms then visit a doctor immediately.