When our airways get contaminated with a cough, cold, or the flu, the cells of our immune system are activated to help battle the inflammation that is generated by the symptoms of infection. The uncomfortable symptoms of a sore throat and cough can be alleviated by lowering inflammation in the cells that line our airways. Since there is now no treatment that can reverse the condition, over-the-counter medications can at most alleviate the symptoms or reduce the length of the illness. You might perhaps go about it in a more natural way. This episode of Cafeer delves into some at-home treatments that could potentially help you feel better along the way.
Do natural cures for the common cold and flu really work? In her role at Piedmont Sixty Plus as a nurse and difficult case manager, Barbara Austin, RN, MN, distinguishes between reality and fiction.
The most effective cold and flu cures are natural
1. Keeping hydrated
Maintaining proper hydration is Austin’s first and foremost piece of advice for speedy recovery from a virus such as a cold or the flu.
“Your body has a natural ability to flush germs out of your system when you’re properly hydrated,” she explains. “When you’re properly hydrated.”
She suggests consuming 64 ounces of hydration each day, but you should discuss your individual requirements with your primary care physician. It is recommended that certain individuals, such as those who have congestive heart failure, drink less water.
2. Vitamin C
Although it has not been demonstrated that vitamin C can stop the onset of cold symptoms, some research suggests that it may be able to lessen the duration of a cold. In addition to this, it improves your general health, particularly your immune system.
The best way, according to Austin, to receive the vitamin is through your diet. The better the meal is, the fresher it is. Consider actual oranges rather than orange juice or pills containing orange. When used in excessive amounts, vitamin C pills (but not vitamin C obtained from food) can cause stomach distress and kidney stones.
3. Sleep
According to Austin, during the cold and flu season, getting a sufficient amount of rest is of the utmost importance.
Getting enough sleep allows your immune system to operate at its peak, which improves its ability to ward off harmful viruses and bacteria.
4. Honey and a cup of tea
She claims, “I’m a honey enthusiast,” and I believe her. It possesses natural qualities that are antiviral as well as antimicrobial.
To soothe an itchy throat and ensure that you stay hydrated, try adding the natural sweetener to a cup of ginger or cinnamon tea. When feasible, use a variety that is grown in the area.
5. Chicken and dumplings
There are moments when mom truly does have the greatest advice. Mucus accumulation can be alleviated and hydration maintained with the help of hot drinks like soup. According to research conducted at the University of Nebraska Medical Center, chicken soup contains anti-inflammatory qualities that can help alleviate some of the uncomfortable symptoms associated with a cold.
6. Aromatherapy in general
To loosen the mucus in your nose, dab some camphor or menthol ointment around the outside of your nose (but not in!). Inhaling aromatherapy oils like peppermint and eucalyptus, for example, can also be an effective method for relieving congestion.
7. A hot and vaporous shower
According to Austin, a warm shower or sauna is an excellent way to relieve congestion. A word of caution, however: if you are feeling lightheaded or weak due to the flu, it is best to sit in a chair in your bathroom while taking a hot shower.
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