Cold and flu symptoms can be extremely frustrating, especially when good rest and a healthy diet don’t seem to be enough to cure them. If you want to avoid relying on medication to treat your common cold or flu, we’ve got you covered! Read on to discover 10 natural remedies to alleviate your symptoms and help you feel back to your best!
1. Natural Solutions to Beat the Common Cold
The common cold is an inevitable part of life that can seem like a daunting hurdle. But while there is no true cure, there are some effective natural remedies that can help you deal with the symptoms, get some relief and beat the cold faster.
1- Home Remedies
When a cold strikes, there are almost always home remedies that can be used to lessen the symptoms. Creating a steam bath by inhaling hot steam through a towel has a decongesting effect, while adding a drop of eucalyptus oil can help to soothe the throat and reduce nasal and airway congestion. Certain teas like peppermint, chamomile, or elderflower have beneficial properties with antioxidant and minerals. Natural ingredients, like apple cider vinegar, have also been used by many for their antibacterial properties.
2- Herbal Remedies
Herbal remedies have been around for centuries and have been used to fight a number of ailments, including the common cold. Whether it’s tea, tinctures, essential oils, or capsules, these remedies have been long known to have properties that can aid in relieving a number of cold symptoms.
- Ginger root, taken as a tea or extract, is known to have naturally powerful anti-inflammatory qualities that can help reduce headaches, muscle aches, and congestion.
- Echinacea and goldenseal are known for their immune-boosting effects to help ward off infection.
- Licorice root is known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-viral properties.
3- Lifestyle Tips
Beyond natural remedies, there are simple lifestyle tips that can help with the common cold. Getting a good night’s rest, drinking plenty of fluids, and following a balanced diet can all help your body fight off an infection and heal faster.
These natural solutions can help turn a miserable cold into a manageable one. But if your symptoms persist or worsen, be sure to speak with your doctor.
2. Easy Ways to Beat the Flu
The flu season is an unfortunate reality almost every year, and it can feel like there’s no escape from it. Fortunately, there are many easy ways to help you fight the dreaded flu and its germ-filled symptoms. Here are few tips to help you win the fight against the flu this season:
- Good Hygiene: Good hygiene is the simplest and most effective way of avoiding the flu. Be sure to always wash your hands with soap and water, and cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or your sleeve when you sneeze. Wiping down shared surfaces, such as doorknobs or faucets, can also help prevent the spread of germs.
- Fortify Your Immune System: Eating a healthy, balanced diet full of fruits and vegetables will help fortify your immune system and make it easier to fight off the flu. Additionally, staying active and getting enough sleep helps strengthen the body’s natural defenses and prepare its defenses against any invaders.
- Take Preventative Measures: It’s also a good idea to take extra preventative measures to keep illnesses away at the start of the season. The flu shot is an excellent option that helps protect against various strains of flu. Additionally, limiting contact with individuals who are displaying flu-like symptoms will help reduce your chances of getting the virus.
With a bit of effort, you can arm yourself against the flu virus this season. Start arming yourself with these easy steps and embrace the winter months with confidence.
3. Home Remedies for Cold & Flu Symptoms
When temperatures drop, so does our resistance against colds and flu. But there are certain home remedies used to fight common flu-like symptoms. Palatable or not, these remedies provide quick relief from the annoying itchiness, runny nose, sneezing, and other discomforts brought about by colds and flu:
- Drink herbal teas – Ginger tea, green tea, chamomile tea, or other herbal teas are great for soothing an irritated throat and boosting the immune system. Add honey and lemon as natural sweeteners to make the tea more palatable.
- Suck on zinc lozenges or zinc-infused throat sprays – Zinc is known to reduce the severity and duration of colds and flu. Zinc lozenges are available in most drug stores or pharmacies.
- Boost your Vitamin C intake – Vitamin C helps strengthen one’s immunity against infections. Citrus fruits, kiwis, bell peppers, dark leafy greens, and strawberries are all excellent sources of Vitamin C.
In addition to these home remedies for flu-like symptoms, it would be wise to drink plenty of fluids and get lots of rest. When properly hydrated and well-rested, the body can fight off illness more efficiently.
Stay away from caffeinated and sugary drinks as these can do more harm than good. Also, avoid going out in the cold air, especially at night, as this could worsen one’s symptoms.
4. Simple Steps to Get Back on Your Feet
After a rough patch, it’s time to turn it around and pick yourself up. Here are a few tips to getting back on your feet.
Firstly, make sure to set realistic goals. Don’t overreach, and start small. This way, you can really track your progress and build your motivation. As they key is to push yourself while not being overwhelmed, and don’t forget to reward yourself when you achieve your goals.
Take Care of Yourself
Your emotional and physical well being will always be your number one priority, so make sure to take the time to tend to yourself. Eat a balanced diet, get some exercise, rest, and take the time to do something you enjoy. It can be easy to ignore in times of hardship, but make sure to keep investing in yourself.
Share Your Struggles
Gather your tribe and don’t be afraid to reach out. Human connection can often be the key to healing, and by speaking openly and honestly about your journey, you can find support and understanding.
Confide in others, attend support groups, or even do as the Ancient Greeks did and travel on a hero’s quest. Whatever works for you, make sure to seek out people who you will feel safe and comfortable with.
- Set realistic goals
- Take care of yourself
- Share your struggles
Getting back on your feet may not feel easy, but it is an achievable milestone. Remember to take it one step at a time, and trust that you will rise again.
Deep breathing and sipping on hot tea can be your go-to remedies for cold and flu season. With these natural remedies, you can reduce the severity and duration of your common cold and flu symptoms, and you don’t need to rely solely on medications. So why not try some of these solutions and break free from colds and flu with the power of nature!