Step into the world of nature’s healing power, where simplicity reigns and effectiveness blossoms. In the relentless pursuit of modern medicine and complex treatments, it’s easy to forget the age-old wisdom quietly nestled in the heart of Mother Nature herself. But fret not, for this article serves as your guide to the realm of simplicity and the art of natural remedies for cold and flu. Today, we embark on a journey back to basics, where the humble roots of traditional healing methods hold the key to building a strong defense against these common ailments. Unlock the secrets that have stood the test of time, as we explore the remarkable potential hidden within the arms of nature’s embrace. Fasten your seatbelts, open your mind, and prepare to be captivated by the wonders that lay just beyond the threshold of simplicity.
1. Restore Your Health Naturally: Cold & Flu Remedies
Cold and flu season leaves many of us with achy, sniffly, congested misery. Luckily, there are ways you can naturally restore your health and avoid the seasonal chills.
Hydrate and Rest
- Drinking plenty of fluids such as warm tea, and water, helps thin mucus and keep you hydrated
- Resting and sleeping help your body fight infection
Essential Oils
Essential oils, such as eucalyptus and tea tree oil, are thought to have antibacterial and antiviral properties. A few drops of oil in a warm bath or diffused in the air can help clear a stuffy nose or sore throat.
Dietary Supplements
Certain dietary supplements like Vitamin C and Zinc, can help reduce the duration of a cold and flu. Vitamin C is found in citrus fruits, peppers, and kiwi. Zinc can be taken as a supplement or found in eggs, fish, and nuts. Both Vitamin C and Zinc help boost your immune system, enabling your body to better fight off infections.
Healing Herbs
Herbs like Elderberry, Oregano, and Astragalus are known to have healing and anti-inflammatory properties. Consider drinking herbal teas or adding herbs to your meals to help you reduce cold and flu symptoms.
Stay prepared this cold and flu season by following the natural remedies above. Not only will you save yourself a nasty infection, but you’ll give your body a necessary reset and restore your health naturally!
2. Get Back to the Basics: Natural Relief from Respiratory Ailments
With all the pharmaceutical treatments available for treating respiratory problems, it’s easy to forget about the simpler, natural solutions that can help. From herbal teas to steam inhalations, taking a “back to basics” approach is a great way to treat respiratory ailments in a gentle and traditional way.
Herbal Teas
Herbal teas are among the simplest and oldest remedies for respiratory issues.
- Thyme tea: This aromatic herb is known for its antiseptic properties and its ability to treat coughs and respiratory infections. Make a tea by adding 2-3 teaspoons of dried thyme leaves to a cup of boiling water. Allow to infuse for 5 minutes and then strain. Sweeten (optional) and drink up to 3 times daily.
- Ginger tea: This spicy root is known for its ability to reduce mucous in the nasal passages and it’s helps with respiratory congestion and inflammation. Prepare tea by adding 1 teaspoon of ginger to a cup of boiling water. Allow it to steep for 5-10 minutes, strain, (optional) sweeten and drink.
- Licorice root tea: Licorice root’s anti-inflammatory properties make it a great choice for relieving sore throats. Simply add 1 teaspoon of dried shredded root to a cup of boiling water, steep for 5 minutes, strain and drink twice daily.
Steam Inhalations
Steam inhalations are a classic, natural way to open nasal passages and help clear mucous and congestion. Heat a pot of water on the stove and add 2 teaspoons of herbs such as eucalyptus, rosemary, thyme, or mint. Place a towel over your head and lean over the pot, inhaling the aromas from the herbal steam. Do this for up to 5 minutes.
Salt Water Gargle
Salt water gargles can help soothe inflammation and kill bacteria in the throat. Dissolve 1 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and gargle for 1-2 minutes. Spit it out and repeat up to 3 times daily.
Natural Remedies for Coughs
- Honey: Consuming honey has been known to reduce the frequency and severity of dry coughs. Add 1-2 teaspoons of honey in lukewarm as often as you like.
- Peppermint: This mildly fragrant herb has menthol in it which helps in relief of congestion and even muscle aches. Steep 2 teaspoons of peppermint leaves in a cup of boiling water for 5-10 minutes, strain and drink throughout the day.
- Ginger: This powerful anti-inflammatory root is great for treats for chest and nasal congestion and irritation. Add 1 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger to a cup of water and allow it to boil for 5 minutes. Strain, cool and drink 2-3 times a day.
These simple, natural treatments are far gentler on the body and offer great relief from respiratory ailments. With so many natural solutions available, give yourself a good old-fashioned home remedy and feel the difference!
3. Boost Immunity Without Meds: Revitalizing Home Remedies for the Common Cold
Whether you’re stuck in bed wishing you had a magic cure for the common cold, or looking to boost your immunity and dodge it altogether, try these simple home remedies to help keep you feeling your best:
- Sage and Garlic. Sauté minced garlic cloves and sage and mix them into hot water. This mix has antiviral properties that help fight and diminish symptoms, while also providing your immune system the boost it needs.
- Lemon and Honey. Honey has powerful antimicrobial properties, while the lemon contains antioxidants and vitamins that help your body fight infection. Try making a warm cup of lemon and honey tea to get you feeling back on track.
- Steam. By pouring boiling water into a bowl and placing a towel over your head, the steam enters your nasal passage and helps to decongest them. Additionally, you can add essential oils, such as eucalyptus or peppermint, to further clear up sinuses and relieve congestion.
- Ginger. Ginger is incredible for digestion, while also helping relieving congestion and sore throat. You can add fresh ginger to your tea, sip on ginger ale, or make a hot ginger tea with lemon and honey.
While it may be difficult to get sick often, you don’t have to suffer through it without help. This list of simple home remedies can help relieve the common cold and let you get back to feeling your best.
You can also take preventive action to reduce your chances of developing a cold in the first place. During cold and flu season, make sure to wash your hands regularly, and practice healthy habits, such as getting enough sleep and staying hydrated. With a few simple steps, you can help boost your immunity and protect yourself from the common cold.
4. Proven, All-Natural Treatments for Flu Symptoms
When the flu arrives in your home with a nasty virus in tow, conventional medicine will provide some relief. But to truly tackle the symptoms, natural remedies are often the way to go. Here are four proven treatments that can help you feel like yourself again.
1. Don’t Skip the Tea
Several varieties, including green tea, ginger tea, and turmeric tea, can help to soothe sore throats and reduce sinus pressure. A bit of honey can also go a long way – honey has long been known as a natural remedy for coughs and irritation in the throat. To make turmeric or ginger tea, simply add a teaspoon of each to boiling water. Let the tea steep for five minutes, strain, and then serve it warm with a bit of honey.
2. Nature’s Decongestant: Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties, making it a powerhouse when it comes to reducing congestion and relieving cold and flu symptoms. Not only does it help to break down mucus, but it also supplies needed vitamin C and strengthens the immune system. To use, simply mix one to two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar in a glass of water and drink it twice a day. You may also wish to add a tablespoon of honey.
3. Hydration Is Key
Staying hydrated is essential for a speedy recovery. The recommendation is 8 glasses of water a day, but you should also get fluids from sources like soups or fruit juices. Adding some lemon to the mix can help relieve congestion. Not only does it help break up mucus, but the vitamin C helps to strengthen your immune system so you can get better faster.
4. Take a Hot Steamy Bath
Draw a warm bath with a few drops of eucalyptus oil and breathe in the steam. Eucalyptus oil is known to have antiviral properties, and steam can open your sinuses. This combination can be just the thing you need to decongest and ease sore muscles, among other benefits. Spend at least fifteen minutes in the bath for the best effect.
These tried and tested remedies can bring you relief and allow the flu to take a hike. Let nature show it who’s boss, and you on the path to wellness in no time.
If you’re looking for natural remedies to speed up the recovery from cold and flu, then getting back to basics is the way to go. Various simple and effective treatments are available, and these can go a long way to helping you feel better in no time. It’s a great way to look after yourself the natural way and to boost your body’s own natural immune system.
