Two of the most common infectious diseases in the world are influenza, sometimes referred to as the flu, and the common cold. Both are virus-based, with influenza viruses causing the flu and rhinoviruses mostly causing the cold. The symptoms of these infections, which can range from mild to severe, include fever, sore throat, coughing, and runny or stuffy noses. Although there is no known treatment for the common cold or flu, people have been using various natural cures for ages to reduce symptoms and expedite healing.
In this post, we'll look at seven well-liked homemade cures for colds and the flu that have acquired popularity due to their ability to boost immunity and offer comfort. It's crucial to remember that although these treatments could aid in symptom relief and encourage healing, they cannot replace expert medical advice or care. It is imperative that you see a healthcare professional if your symptoms are severe or persistent.
Table of Contents
1) Chicken Soup
Reputably effective in relieving cold and flu symptoms, chicken soup has gained popularity. This traditional cure has been handed down through the ages and has some scientific support.
Warm, steaming soup relieves stuffy noses and replenishes fluids, both of which are critical when sick. Furthermore, chicken soup has a number of elements that are good for the immune system. In addition to veggies and occasionally rice or noodles, the broth's usual ingredients also add nutrients to the dish.
Studies conducted by scientists have demonstrated that the length and intensity of cold and flu symptoms can be lessened by eating chicken soup. According to a 2000 research that appeared in the journal "Chest," chicken soup can stop neutrophils—white blood cells involved in the inflammatory response of the body—from moving. Consequently, this may aid in lessening upper respiratory infection symptoms.
2) Ginger Tea
Due to its well-known anti-inflammatory and immune-stimulating qualities, ginger is a root with a lengthy medical history. Because ginger tea relieves sore throats, lowers nausea, and clears congestion, it's a well-liked over-the-counter treatment for colds and flu.
Gingerol and zingerone, two of the plant's main constituents, have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities. These substances have the ability to lessen respiratory tract inflammation and relieve symptoms such as coughing and sore throats.
To prepare ginger tea, grate one or two tablespoons of fresh ginger into a cup of boiling water. If you want more taste and calming benefits, you may also add lemon and honey. Several cups of ginger tea each day can help alleviate the symptoms of the flu and colds.
3) Garlic
Another natural medicine with a long history of usage for medical purposes is garlic. It is a useful friend in the battle against colds and the flu because of its reputation for having antibacterial, antiviral, and immune-boosting properties.
Many of the health advantages of garlic are attributed to a component known as allicin. Since allicin has been demonstrated to prevent viral development and reproduction, it may be used as a treatment for viral illnesses including the flu and the common cold.
Typically, garlic is used to get its health advantages whether eaten raw or cooked. Garlic supplements are also used by some people, however before include supplements in your regimen, it's important to speak with a healthcare provider because certain supplements may interfere with certain drugs.
4) Honey
Since ancient times, honey has been used as a natural sweetener and a cure-all for a number of illnesses, such as sore throats and coughs. Because of its antibacterial qualities, it works well to relieve various cold and flu-related symptoms.
Honey's viscous, thick consistency helps coat the throat to soothe discomfort and reduce coughing. Furthermore, the antibacterial qualities of honey can help reduce bacterial development and relieve sore throat tissues.
The journal "Pediatrics" published a research that demonstrated honey's superiority over over-the-counter cough syrups in mitigating overnight coughing in children with upper respiratory tract infections. It is crucial to remember that honey has a danger of botulism and should not be administered to infants younger than one year old.
Simply stir one teaspoon of honey into a warm glass of water or herbal tea, then gently sip to utilize honey as a home cure. Honey and lemon can also be combined for additional advantages.
5) Elderberry
Growing in popularity as a natural cure for colds and flu is elderberry, more especially black elderberry (Sambucus nigra). Antioxidants found in elderberries, such as anthocyanins, have been demonstrated to have immune-stimulating effects.
A common remedy for cold and flu symptoms is elderberry syrup or extract. Elderberry may be able to lessen the length and intensity of symptoms, such as fever, headaches, and congestion, according to research.
Elderberry extract has been shown in a research that was published in the journal "Complementary Therapies in Medicine" to be beneficial in lessening the length and intensity of flu-like symptoms in passengers flying. Elderberry extract has been shown in another study published in "Phytotherapy Research" to be able to stop influenza virus replication.
6) Probiotics
Probiotics are good bacteria that support a balanced microbiome in the gut. Growing evidence indicates that immune system support is contingent upon a normal gut flora, which offers probiotics as a possible ally against colds and flu.
Foods high in probiotics, such as kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, and yogurt, can support the health of your gut flora. There are probiotic pills available as well, and these can be helpful, especially if you're on antibiotics, which can upset the normal balance of gut flora.
Probiotics have been demonstrated in studies to help lower the risk and decrease the duration of respiratory infections. The journal "Nutrients" released a review indicating that probiotics may reduce the frequency and length of common colds. Probiotics may function by improving the body's defensive systems and regulating the immunological response.
7) Echinacea
For generations, people have utilized echinacea, or coneflower, as a natural treatment to cure a variety of illnesses, such as the flu and the common cold. There are several varieties of echinacea supplements on the market, such as capsules, tinctures, and teas.
It is thought that echinacea stimulates the immune system by boosting white blood cell synthesis and boosting the cells' capacity to fight off infections. According to certain research, echinacea may lessen the likelihood of getting the flu and cold and may also minimize the time that symptoms last.
Supplementing with echinacea can cut the length of a cold by 1.4 days and lower the chance of getting one by 58%, according to a meta-analysis published in the journal "The Lancet Infectious Diseases".
The Takeaway
The common cold and influenza have no known cure, yet there are a few natural therapies that can help reduce symptoms and boost immunity. There is scientific proof that the seven therapies covered in this article—garlic, honey, elderberry, probiotics, echinacea, ginger tea, and chicken soup—may be effective. These cures have all been utilized for many years.
It's crucial to keep in mind that these treatments cannot replace guidance and care from qualified medical professionals. Seek medical attention if you or a loved one has severe or enduring flu or cold symptoms. Furthermore, it's critical to uphold proper hygiene habits, including routine hand washing, to lower the chance of catching and transmitting these infections.
Along with a healthy diet, frequent exercise, and enough sleep, incorporating these at-home cures into your wellness regimen will help you stay strong and better able to ward off colds and flu. To find the best course of action for your particular circumstances, like with any health-related choice, it's recommended to speak with a healthcare provider.
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