Most people who get the flu will recover within a week, but some people may experience more severe illness, such as pneumonia. Pneumonia is a serious lung infection that can be life-threatening.
Who is at Risk for the Flu?
Anyone can get the flu, but some people are at greater risk of developing serious complications from the flu, such as pneumonia. People at high risk for complications from the flu include:
- Children younger than 5 years old, but especially those younger than 2 years old
- Adults 65 years of age and older
- Pregnant women
- People with chronic medical conditions, such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease
If you’re looking for ways to fight the flu without medication, there are plenty of home remedies that can help. From honey and ginger to chicken soup and eucalyptus oil, here are some of the most effective home remedies for flu symptoms.
10 Natural Home Remedies for Flu Relief
1. Honey
Honey has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that make it an effective home remedy for treating the flu. It’s also a natural cough suppressant.
2. Ginger
Ginger is a common home remedy for nausea, but it can also help relieve flu symptoms like body aches and pains. [1]
3. Echinacea
Echinacea is a plant that’s sometimes called the “flu fighter.” Some studies have shown that it can help shorten the duration of the flu. [2]
4. Eucalyptus Oil
Eucalyptus oil has antiviral and antibacterial properties that make it an effective home remedy for treating the flu. You can use eucalyptus oil by adding it to a diffuser or add a few drops into a bowl of hot water and inhale the steam.
5. Garlic
Garlic is another home remedy with antiviral and antibacterial properties. It’s also thought to boost immunity, which can help you recover from the flu more quickly.
6. Menthol
Menthol has cooling and pain-relieving properties that make it an effective home remedy for treating the flu. You can use menthol vaporub by applying it to your chest or neck.
7. Oregano Oil
Oregano oil has powerful antiviral and antibacterial properties. A study found that oregano oil was effective in killing the flu virus and also responding to bacteria that are non responsive to other drugs.
8. Vitamin C
Vitamin C is a nutrient that’s essential for good health. It’s also thought to boost immunity, which can help you recover from the flu more quickly.
9. Probiotics
Probiotics are live bacteria that are found in fermented foods like yogurt and sauerkraut. They’re also available in supplement form. Probiotics can help boost immunity and fight infection.
10. Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a nutrient that’s essential for good health. It’s also thought to boost immunity, which can help you recover from the flu more quickly.
What are the Causes of Flu?
Flu is caused by a virus. The most common type of flu virus is the influenza virus. There are many different types of influenza viruses, and they are constantly changing. That’s why it’s so hard to prevent the flu, and why you can get it more than once.
What are the Symptoms of Flu?
Symptoms of Flu Include:
- Runny nose
- Sore throat
- Coughing
- Sneezing
- Fever
- Body aches and pains
- Fatigue (tiredness)
When to See a Doctor?
When the flu does not respond to the home remedies or the fever persists for more than 3 days, it is time to see the doctor. Other alarming symptoms include difficulty in breathing, chest pain, and dehydration.
These are just a few of the many home remedies that can help relieve flu symptoms. If you’re feeling sick, be sure to drink plenty of fluids, get rest, and consult your doctor if your symptoms worsen.
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