Atleast One Below Home Remedies For flu Will Help
Boneset Herb
What is Influenza?
Influenza, commonly referred to as the flu, is a viral illness that affects the respiratory tract including the nose, throat, lungs and bronchial tubes (the airways that lead to the lungs). The most common symptoms of influenza are:
Fever and extreme coldness
Cough
Nasal congestion
Body aches, especially joints and throat
Headache
Nausea and vomiting
Fatigue
Irritated, watering eyes
Reddened eyes, skin (especially face), mouth, throat and nose
Petechial Rash
Although influenza is often confused with other influenza-like illnesses, especially the common cold, influenza is a more severe disease than the common cold and is caused by a different type of virus. Gastroenteritis, though sometimes inaccurately referred to as “stomach flu,” is not related to Influenza. Flu can occasionally cause either direct viral pneumonia or secondary bacterial pneumonia, and, hence, can be potentially deadly; therefore a qualified healthcare provider should be consulted if you suspect you have the flu.
Influenza is transmitted through the air by coughs or sneezes; it can also be transmitted by direct contact with nasal secretions or contaminated surfaces. Influenza viruses can be inactivated by sunlight, disinfectants and detergents. As the virus can be inactivated by soap, frequent hand washing reduces the risk of infection. Colds last for a week, but the flu can last for up to 12 days, and a persistent cough for another week.
Herbal Remedies for Flu
A cure for influenza is yet to be found. Though herbal remedies cannot cure it either, they can bring relief of symptoms, stimulate the immune system and speed recovery. Many herbs are used to reduce the severity of the flu. While research has been mixed, many of the herbs were proven to aid healing.
Drink Water: When you come down with the flu, your respiratory tract works hard to expel the invading viruses along a veritable “Slip ’n Slide” of mucus. Rather than drying those mucus secretions with an over-the-counter antihistamine, it’s better to accelerate the healing process by thinning them, thus making it easier to expel them. The best way to thin mucus secretions is to add water to your system by drinking warm liquids, especially water, besides herbal teas and soup broth. Some findings show that hot liquids may be superior to cold liquids in upper respiratory infections. Other liquids can be added, but coffee, tea, or alcoholic beverages may cause dehydration.
Steam Inhalation: Bring a quart-size pot of water to a boil, remove it from the stove and place your face at a comfortable distance from the steam, then cover your head with a towel. Inhale through your nose if you’re stuffy, or through your mouth for chest congestion. You can augment the power of steam by adding to the boiled water, a handful of decongesting, antimicrobial herbs or their essential oils such as eucalyptus or rosemary. If you use peppermint, add only one to two drops. Essential oils of thyme and oregano will be too irritating for steam inhalation. Close your eyes when inhaling essential oils. Caution: Aromatic vapors may aggravate asthma.
Nasal Saline Irrigation: A host of scientific studies support saline nasal irrigation as an effective flu remedy to thin mucus, decrease postnasal drip, and add moisture to dried mucous membranes. In addition, the saline nasal rinse helps to remove virus particles and bacteria from your nose. You can also use a Neti Pot for nasal saline irrigation.
Use Moist Heat Compresses: If your head is throbbing and it’s difficult to breathe through your nose, you may find relief by applying warm moist compresses to the cheeks and sinuses. If you use moist heat, make sure it’s not too hot to avoid skin injury.
Elderberry. A time-honored European cold and flu remedy is the tea of elder flowers and peppermint leaves. This herb is known to support the immune system and to stimulate the body`s ability to fight viruses. Scientific research however, has focused on the black elderberry tree (Sambucus nigra). (Red elderberries [S. racemosa] are toxic when taken internally. American elderberries [S. canadensis], which are dark purple, are edible if cooked first.) An extract of the black elderberries produces beneficial immune actions and helps fight influenza and other respiratory viruses. Studies conducted on elderberries showed a reduction of flu symptoms.
Garlic has antimicrobial and immune-stimulating properties and may give relief of upper respiratory congestion with cold or flu. Garlic helps to detoxify the body. It is known to kill influenza virus. It also stimulates the immune system and wards off complications such as bronchitis. Researchers in England found that garlic can speed up recovery from a cold and increase resistance. Garlic combines well with echinacea and they, together, make a strong fighting force against infections.
Ginger also stimulates nerves that lead to mucus production. Ginger has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, and helps fight viral infections. Ginger is another of natures’ antiviral herbs. It contains nearly a dozen antiviral compounds. It is valuable for preventing and treating colds, sore throats and inflammation of mucus membranes. Ginger reduces pain and fever, and has a mild sedative effect that will encourage rest. It is tasty, too, with no lingering odours. Drink a tea, or soak fresh ginger in hot water, take as a tincture and include it in your food.
Echinacea has powerful antiviral and immunity-boosting effects. It is used to rev up the immune system at the first sign of a cold. Echinacea has been found to work better before you get sick, to build up immunity. It has been a traditional favorite for colds and flu. Studies have shown that infections with flu-like symptoms clear more rapidly when taking echinacea. Its anti-bacterial effect makes it a good herb for treating many viral and bacterial infections. Echinacea is also an excellent blood cleanser; it helps to sweep dead cells and other debris through the channels of the lymphatic system, and dispatches white blood cells to fight the infection.
Ginseng: Although there are many types of ginseng, one cultivated in North America called Panax quinquefolius or “North American ginseng” has become popular as a remedy for colds and flu. One study found a reduction in the length of symptoms while another study found that ginseng may prevent influenza-caused acute respiratory illness (ARI) in elderly patients. It has also been shown to shorten the duration of a cold. Although it’s popular, independent trials are needed to determine the safety and effectiveness of this product. There is some concern that ginseng may reduce the effectiveness of “blood-thinning” (anticlotting or antiplatelet) drugs such as warfarin (Coumadin) or aspirin. It may also interact with diabetes’ and several other medications. People with heart conditions, schizophrenia or diabetes also shouldn’t take ginseng root unless under a doctor’s supervision.
Astragalus membranaceus or milk vetch, has been used in Chinese medicine for over 2,000 years to strengthen the immune and respiratory systems and to fight the flu. Astragalus can stimulate practically all of the processes of your immune system. It increases the number of stem cells in bone marrow and speeds their growth into active immune cells. Astragalus belongs to a class of herbs called adaptogens, and helps the body handle stress. Astragalus also fights pathogens like bacteria and viruses..
Licorice root (Glycyrrhiza glabra) has many properties that can relieve cold and flu symptoms. It’s an anti-inflammatory, demulcent (soothing to sore throats), antispasmodic (to relax tight coughs) and expectorant (expels respiratory mucus). Licorice root is sweet and makes most herbal blends taste great. One study found that drinking 6 cups a day of a tea containing licorice relieved throat pain. This tea, Throat Coat, also contains slippery elm bark, marshmallow root, wild cherry bark, bitter fennel fruit, cinnamon bark and sweet orange peel. However, taking licorice for more than four to six weeks may cause the kidneys to retain water and sodium and lose potassium. Besides, pregnant ladies and those with high blood pressure or low blood potassium, shouldn’t take it.
Boneset: An infusion of boneset (Eupatorium perfoliatum) may relieve aches and fever and clear congestion: Simmer 1 cup boiling water with 2 tsp of the herb for 10 to 15 minutes; drink a cupful every hour, as hot as you can stand it. If you are suffering from muscular aching, use an infusion of Boneset alone, or in combination with Catmint (Nepeta cataria) and/or Elderflower.
Chili peppers are a great source of capsaicin, an antioxidant that also acts as a natural decongestant and expectorant. If you have a strong stomach, add a few chili peppers to season your foods or use a few drops of hot sauce in a food or beverage. The added “spice” will help to open your nasal passages and temporarily improve breathing.
Lemon is a traditional sore throat soother. Fresh lemons are often used as sore throat remedy. Just suck on a lemon or gargle with freshly pressed lemon juice diluted with equal amount of warm water. You also may eat freshly squeezed lime or lemon juice mixed with equal amount of honey.
Dab some horseradish on your sandwich if you need a decongestant effect. Horseradish — a root — contains a chemical similar to one found in decongestants.
Olive leaf has been shown to be an excellent antibacterial. This herbal supplement fights bacterial and viral infections.
Grapefruit Leaf: This is best taken in capsules as it can be bitter. Research has shown grapefruit leaves to be effective as an antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and antiparasitic.
Tea Tree Oil: To help alleviate and disinfect dry air passages, add 10 drops of tea tree oil to a bowl of hot water or vaporizer and leave in bedroom overnight. A small handkerchief sprinkled with a few drops of the oil and left under the pillow may help as well.
Sage Tea: Gargle regularly with sage tea to disinfect mouth, and use sage inhalations to reduce inflammation.
Forsythia and honeysuckle: These herbs are used by Oriental Medicine practitioners to treat colds, flu and other viruses. They have real antiviral benefits. At the inception of cold or flu, mix honeysuckle and forsythia with lemon balm tea (lemon balm also has antiviral properties). Take this tea before going to bed.
Mullein: A tea made with mullein flowers provides throat-soothing mucilage and also has an expectorant effect. Herbalists think that this plant contains compounds that inhibit flu viruses. You can also make a tea with mullein leaf.
Goldenseal is both antiseptic and immune stimulating, increasing blood supply to the spleen. The spleen is the body’s staging area for the fighting cells in your immune system. Berberine is present in goldenseal, and activates macrophages (special white blood cells), which are responsible for destruction of bacteria, fungi, viruses and tumor cells.
Catnip: Catnip or Catmint, promotes perspiration and a hot infusion is good for feverish colds and flu’s. Catnip is also a muscle relaxant and mild sedative so will help to induce sleep.
Cinnamon: Will stop vomiting and relieve feelings of nausea. Take as a tea. Cinnamon oil also had anti-bacterial properties.
Yarrow has anti-inflammatory properties, and a hot yarrow tea will promote sweating. Many herbalists consider yarrow to be one of the principal herbal remedies for fever, feverish colds and flu. It is often taken in combination with elderflower and peppermint.
Cumin seeds: Add a teaspoon of cumin seeds to 1 glass of boiling water. Simmer for a few minutes, strain, and let it cool. Drink it 12 times a day. If sore throat is also present, add a few small pieces of dry ginger to the boiling water.
Tepid Sponge Bath. Fill a sink or basin with lukewarm water, and use a washcloth to gently wipe over the body.
Gargling with salt water is quite useful to ease sore throat. The demulcent properties in mullein, marshmallow, etc., help soothe an aching throat, and calm a cough. The capsaicin in cayenne pepper diminishes throat pain; use it in a gargle. Gargle teas or tinctures of these plants for maximum relief. Try marshmallow, licorice, red raspberry, or calendula to soothe the irritation. Lemon will also be useful.
Category: HERBAL REMEDIES
