We’ve all been there. Day three of the flu and no sign of relief. You’re miserable and completely incapacitated and there’s nothing you wouldn’t do to make it end as quickly as possible. Most doctors will tell you that there’s not much to be done to shorten the lifespan of a flu. It may be true that there’s no medication that can cure the flu once it’s in your system, but there are ways to improve your immune system and cut short the length of misery caused by the flu. While many doubt the efficacy of natural remedies, when it comes to the flu, this is your best and only option. Here are 10 natural remedies that may help shorten your flu misery.
1. Water
The shortage of water in the human body can contribute to malaise on a day-to-day level. When it comes to the flu, you do not want to be in any state of dehydration as you’ll be draining your body of energy necessary for fighting the flu. Depending on the flu type, your body could also be losing water because of the flu as well. Especially flus with symptoms of vomiting or diarrhea can leave the patient dehydrated. The best way to stay hydrated during a flu is to drink water, fruit juices made with real fruit juice, and electrolyte drinks. Steer clear of coffee and caffeinated sodas, which are diuretics and lend to dehydration rather than hydration. It’s especially important to stay away from alcohol. That old remedy of the hot toddy doesn’t help with the flu. If it’s hard to drink anything because of your flu, get a straw and start sipping.
2. Soup
While physicians are split on whether or not chicken noodle soup actually helps to cure a cold or flu, there is evidence that it has benefits even if they’re simply psychological. Doctors argue that the emotional comfort brought by the ingredients of soup are enough to help your mind heal your body.
3. Salt Water
You may have seen a neti pot in the aisles of your local health food store, but you don’t need the pot to take advantage of the age-old salt water remedy. You can get an inexpensive bottle of saline solution or simply put some salt and water in your hands and inhale it. It may sound absurd, but the natural cleansing power of salt water will help to move lodged phlegm from your sinuses and keep it from blocking healthy movement.
4. Pelargonium sidoides
You may have never heard of this remedy before, but Swiss doctor, Adrien Swchehaye swore by in the early 1900’s. The pelargonium sidoides plant was discovered in South Africa. The founder named it “Steven’s Consumption Cure.” The plant is kind of geranium used by African Zulu healers to cure a wide variety of sicknesses.
From the basics to the lesser-known discoveries of early travelers, flu remedies do exist. You’re not at the mercy of that virus’ whim, and you do have power to shorten your flu. There may not be a prescription cure yet, but don’t underestimate the power of mother nature to kick in when it counts.
Michelle Winters writes for Viamedic health blog where you’ll find a number of ways to help with your seasonal flu.