When I had flu symptoms a few days ago, it drained my energy and left me tired for a few days. It made me curious about the causes and flu home remedies. My research clears the air as I have found out how you can do flu treatment at home.
The virus is responsible for this condition, which means influenza. Studies reveal that there is no specific cure for the flu, but natural home remedies can reduce the symptoms.
This article will reveal some interesting facts about flu causes and its remedies for adults and babies.
Table of Contents
5 Interesting Facts About the Flu
- Flu vaccine work after two weeks
- It is common between October and May.
- The flu vaccine is needed every year.
- You can pass the influenza virus to others even before symptoms appear.
- Its symptoms may appear abruptly.
Before we explore natural flu remedies, you need to learn the symptoms of the flu.
- Blocked sinuses
- Body aches
- Chills
- Sore throat
- Headache mild to severe
- Coughing
How To Tell the Difference Between Flu and COVID-19?
Researchers say that all the symptoms of flu and COVID-19 are the same except for the loss of smell and taste signs.
It’s time to learn about home remedies to reduce its symptoms in adults and babies.
Treating Flu At Home – Adults
1- Drink Enough Water and Fluids
According to the top reviewed ENT Specialist in Islamabad, Dr. Muhammad Tariq “Water is a crucial element to stay alive, but it is also the best way to deal with your flu symptoms.” We already have discussed that there is no cure, but some home remedies can reduce its symptoms. Intake of water and fluids are also natural remedies that can help to get rid of built-up mucus and phlegm.
The most common symptoms of the flu are fever and diarrhea. So, it is important to eat a proper diet and keep yourself hydrated. If you do not want to go with water, some other fluids are good options to go with, including sports drinks, fresh juice, soup, raw fruit, water, coconut water, herbal tea, etc.
Make sure that you urinate regularly, and it must be pale yellow or transparent to confirm if you are drinking water enough.
2- Honey
Honey is one of the best flu home remedies with healing powers. Studies reveal that honey has antimicrobial properties that fight against bacteria and viruses. You can add some honey to warm water and drink it to soothe your throat and reduce its other symptoms.
3- Chicken Soup
As we have discussed that staying hydrated is important, and chicken or beef soup is the better option to go with. Sinus congestion can make it hard for you to breathe properly.
Doctors at Doctors Hospital say that bone broth is highly rich in minerals and proteins. Rebuilding the immune system is crucial during the flu that can be done with bone broth. A low sodium intake can be beneficial for you to get rid of the flu.
4- Increase Your Zinc Intake
The immune system needs different minerals, and zinc is one of them. Experts say that it makes white blood cells that fight off germs. When the virus enters your body, it multiplies, but you can stop it with the help of zinc intake as it fights against the flu virus. There are a variety of foods for your immune system that contain zinc nutrients, such as lentils, shellfish, nuts, dairy, eggs, beans, chickpeas, etc.
During flu season, I prefer to take zinc supplements to prevent its symptoms.
5- Go with Herbal Tea
Dr.Waseem Jafar who is one of the top ENT specialists says that herbs are popular for their positive effects. Some herbs are antiviral and contain more beneficial properties, including antibacterial properties.
People have been using the Tamiflu herb to boost its recovery. Flu viruses are different, and you will be surprised to know that this herb fights against many kinds of flu viruses.
Herbal teas are also useful to soothe a sore throat. Other herbs are also effective, such as turmeric, fresh garlic, cloves, black tea, green tea, etc.
6- Moist your Home’s Inside Air with a Humidifier
Research has confirmed that dry indoor air allows the flu to survive longer. If you get the flu and your home air is dry, it will increase the chances of the virus spreading easily. Air conditioning or heating tools can make your home inside air dry. When you go to the grocery, use a humidifier as it will help to lower the risk of its virus spread.
7- Prefer Small Diet portions
People often eat more during the flu but it is not a good practice at all. You should eat only a hand-sized portion at a time as it will prevent nausea, diarrhea, cramps, etc. Smoking can also trigger its symptoms, so avoid it as much as you can to boost the recovery process.
Gelatin, soup, boiled potatoes, crackers, grilled chicken, etc. are the best to digest on your stomach. There are some foods you need to avoid, such as spicy foods, fatty foods, caffeine, alcohol, etc.
8- Practice Breathing in Steam
Steam inhalation alleviates headaches, throat irritation, cough, breathing problems, stuffy nose, etc. During this condition, your nose and lungs may experience some swelling but it can be alleviated by steam inhalation.
People who get dry cough symptoms should take steam therapy as it also helps chest tightness and irritated nose. Heat water in a pot on the stove and remove it from the stove for steam therapy before going for therapy. You can also add a few drops of essential oils or a medicated vapor.
9- Gargles with Salt Water
A most popular and ancient remedy for flu is saltwater which soothes a sore throat and reduces its symptoms. Mucous can give you a tough time and make it difficult to breathe, but salt water can help you to clear it. Heat water and add ½ tablespoon of salt.
Gargle to the back of your throat and rinse your throat and mouth. Spit it into a sink and repeat it several times a day to soothe a sore throat.
Flu Home Remedies For Babies
Treating the flu at home is possible if you know the reliable tips. Here are some effective natural remedies for babies that can help with stuffy noses, fever, and cough.
- Make sure that your child is well hydrated as fluids make the mucous thin.
- Parents should raise the head of the child for nasal secretions drain.
- Warm water or juice helps children of age 3 Months to 1 year. Such fluids thin the mucus and loosen the cough.
- You can put a water steam pot near your child to ease coughs but make sure that you keep the pot at a safe place.
- Let the fan circulate cool air in the room.
- To deal with chills, give an extra blanket.
- Make sure that your child gets enough rest.
Myths about Flu Home Remedies
There are some misconceptions about the flu cure, but you need to make sure before you believe in any one of them. What are the myths about treating flu at home?
- The flu vaccine causes the flu.
- The cold temperature causes this condition.
- Chicken soup can help to get rid of the flu overnight.
- The cough can go away instantly with honey.
Wrapping Up
People should not believe what they read online. Severe symptoms of the flu can lead to serious conditions. Visit the Best ENT Doctor if you are unable to reduce the symptoms with flu home remedies.
