8 Natural Remedies for the Flu

Getting the flu can really knock you off your feet as you deal with the fever, sneezing, coughing, headaches, earache, sore throat, fatigue, and congestion. You may be tempted to dose yourself up with medication and painkillers, but it’s important to remember that the symptoms you’re feeling are all part of the healing process. The fever is creating a hot environment to kill off germs in your system by circulating blood more quickly, and a runny nose or coughing helps to clear mucus and germs.

If you or someone you know is suffering from the flu and you’re looking for ways to get better sooner rather than later, here are 8 natural remedies to try.

1. Get plenty of rest… and keep warm

Your body needs to direct as much energy as possible towards fighting the flu, which is going to make you feel tired. Stay warm and rest as much as possible to help your body win the fight as quickly as possible.

2. Stay hydrated

It’s important to be well hydrated whether you’re feeling well or not, but it’s particularly important when you have the flu. Drinking water-based drinks regularly will help as will drinking hot drinks. Hot liquids will not only help to alleviate dehydration but can also relieve nasal congestion and inflammation in your nose and/or throat. If you want to speed up your recovery, consider mobile IV treatment like Reset IV in LA where fluid, medication and nutrients are administered directly into your veins in your own home.

3. Blow your nose regularly and carefully

Blowing your nose will clear out the mucus and phlegm which carries the germs, but if you don’t do it carefully, you could end up blowing it into your ear passages which can cause earache. Try to prevent this by covering one of your nostrils with your finger and blowing gently through the other.

4. Rinse or gargle with saltwater

Saltwater can help to remove particles from your nose and throat which carry bacteria. You can mix ¼ teaspoon of salt and a ¼ teaspoon of baking soda in a glass of warm water and either squirt it into the nostril (with a finger closing the other) before letting it drain. For sore throats, mix ½ a teaspoon of salt into warm water and gargle with it.

5. Have a steamy shower

A steamy shower can not only relax you and your aching muscles but can also moisturize and widen your nasal passages.

6. Hot and cold compresses

To ease a congested nose and/or sinuses, you can apply either a hot or cold pack to it. You can use a damp cloth which has been heated in the microwave or a bag of frozen veg as both will help.

7. Elevate your head while you sleep

You may notice that you feel worse in the morning when you have been lying down all night. To relieve congestion, add an extra pillow under your head to encourage natural decongestion.

8. Eat the right foods

Some foods can help you to battle the symptoms of flu. For example, foods high in Vitamin C such as bell peppers or foods which help stop diarrhea like bananas, rice or blueberries (which also contain natural aspirin).