Home Remedies and Herbs for Flu (Influenza)

The flu also known as influenza is a common infectious virus that leads to variety of symptoms and can affect different people in different ways. Generally most people experience runny nose, high fever, muscle aches, and fatigue. It is also commonly referred to as cold and flu which represents a group of similar symptoms.

The flu is highly contagious and once contracted, cold and flu symptoms can come on in a matter of a couple days. Flu can last anywhere from a few days to two weeks or longer.

Children, seniors and those with compromised immune systems are more likely to become infected by the influenza virus and for it to have more serious complications ¹.

What Causes Flu?

The flu is caused by a respiratory virus called the influenza virus. The influenza virus has multiple strains and has evolved over time. It spreads more commonly in the winter months through airborne droplets and person to person contact. It is also spread by coming into contact with contaminated items such as door handles and shared equipment ^2,3.

Flu Symptoms

Cold and flu symptoms caused by the influenza virus include ^3,4:

• Sore throat
• Sudden chills
• Fever
• Cough
• Aches and pains
• Weakness
• Sweating
• Fatigue
• Headache

Other serious complications such as pneumonia can occur in children or seniors, pregnant women and those with other medical conditions.

Symptoms in the first 48 hours are most acute and eventually flu symptoms will become more subdued. Symptoms can also be reduced by applying flu treatment and cold and flu remedies early on when symptoms develop.

Natural Remedies and Herbs for Fever

Flu treatment can be pursued though antiviral medications as well as through flu remedies and herbs at home such as:

• Garlic - Crushed garlic cloves mixed with hot water is an excellent flu remedy. Drink the garlic tea 3-4 times daily to help fight cold and flu symptoms.
• Honey and Cinnamon - Combine a teaspoon of honey with a dash of cinnamon and take twice daily to protect against the flu virus.
• Cat’s Claw - Take cat’s claw pills with water daily to help boost immune system function and fight off flu symptoms.
• Elderberry - Brew elderberry flower with hot water and drink throughout the day. Infused elderberry will help to strengthen the immune system and combat flu symptoms.
• Ginger - Ginger tea has anti-viral benefits. Drink throughout the day to help fight off cold and flu. Mix raw ginger pieces in with hot water and let steep for 10 minutes and then drink.
• Echinacea - Echinacea is a herbal remedy commonly used for cold and flu. It can be taken in pill format or steeped in tea to help reduce symptoms of flu like cough and sore throat.

If symptoms persist or other complications arise as a result of the flu, contact your doctor to discuss further anti-viral treatment options.

References

1. http://umm.edu/health/medical/altmed/condition/influenza
2. http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/disease/index.htm
3. http://www.msdmanuals.com/professional/infectious-diseases/respiratory-viruses/influenza
4. https://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/flu.html