Top 5 Natural Remedies for Cold and Flu That Actually Work

Top 5 Natural Remedies for Cold and Flu

The transformation of lush green trees into beautiful hues of orange and red indicates that autumn has begun in Australia, signalling the start of flu and cold sores season. This onset of colder weather brings various colds and flu viruses to challenge many Aussies.

Many people start treating colds during this season through their medicine cabinets as small sniffles quickly progress to full-blown sickness. There is no cure for colds and flu, but you can relieve the symptoms through cold and flu medicines or natural remedies.

Home remedies for treating cold and flu symptoms have gained popularity alongside mainstream over-the-counter medicines as natural alternatives. Such remedies support healing processes and cause minimal negative side effects.

Let’s dive a little bit deeper into this conversation and explore the top 5 natural remedies to treat cold and flu at home and their benefits.

What are the Benefits of Home Remedies for Flu and Cold?

Before we get started on how to cure colds and flu naturally, Let’s get to know about their benefits and learn how homemade remedies for colds and flu help in treatment.

Less side effects: Natural remedies rely on natural components to deliver pain relief and do so without the side effects commonly linked to traditional pharmaceuticals.

Accessible and inexpensive: These alternative treatments remain both inexpensive and easily obtainable. The ingredients already exist in kitchens and gardens, so you can easily use them for your practice.

Support overall wellness: Natural remedies function as a tool to enhance wellness throughout the body, as most natural ingredients have vitamins and minerals that strengthen your immune responses so you can fight off potential illnesses.

Promotes self-care habits: The use of natural remedies helps users develop better self-care practices. The preparation of ginger tea and consumption of honey leads to mindfulness while helping you better understand your bodily needs.

Home Remedies for Cold and Flu

1. Honey

A study has shown that honey helps in relieving symptoms as it contains antibacterial properties. If you combine honey with lemon, they act as a soothing duo since it is packed with vitamin C, which is known to support the immune system. It is one of the best homemade remedies for cold and flu.

How to Use:

Mix a tablespoon of honey with half a lemon juice in warm water.
Drink this soothing concoction twice daily, especially in the morning, to relieve a sore throat and boost hydration.

Note:

This remedy is suitable for most, but it is not recommended for children under 12 months.

1. Steam Therapy

A stuffy nose can feel like breathing through a straw. Steam therapy is one of the simplest (but surprisingly effective) natural remedies for cold and flu. Using steam through inhalation works to dissolve mucus and gives moisture relief to dry nasal passages as it reduces congestion. It is the best remedy for blocked nose

How to Use:

Fill a bowl with boiling water.
Put a few drops of either peppermint or eucalyptus essential oil into the mixture.
Position the towel over your head before leaning above the bowl for deep inhalations. It is the most effective stuffy nose treatment.

Pro Tip:

Be cautious not to lean too close to prevent burns. For the little ones, consider using a humidifier instead of direct steam therapy.

3. Saltwater Gargle

A sore throat can turn the simple acts of eating, drinking, or even speaking into a daunting challenge, like trying to swallow shards of glass. A simple saltwater gargle can help in treating cold symptoms by soothing that scratchy pain. Like a gentle tide, it washes away swelling, sweeps out harmful bacteria, and loosens the mucus.

How to Use:

Add half a teaspoon of salt to a glass of warm water.
Gargle for about 30 seconds, then spit it out. Remember not to swallow it.

Tip:

This remedy is great for adults, but avoid using it with very young children who may accidentally swallow the solution.

4. Ginger Tea

For ages, ginger has been used as a herbal remedy for cold and flu due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This natural remedy helps relieve nausea and soothes the throat. Its warming effects make it a favourite among cold and flu sufferers.

How to Use:

First, slice fresh ginger root (about 1-2 inches).
Simmer the slices in hot water for 10 minutes.
You can add honey or lemon for an added immune boost.

Not a fan of tea? Try ginger in soups or smoothies for similar benefits.

5. Hydration

It is recommended to consume plenty of fluids, such as water or juice, while you are sick with a cold or flu. The reason is that it prevents dehydration, loosens the mucus, and keeps the throat wet, which in turn helps to reduce irritation.

Tip:

Try herbal teas and broths to stay hydrated throughout the day.

Other Things to Keep in Mind

Eat a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. What you put inside your body really matters, and it can help your body fight infections more effectively.
Foods rich in zinc, like nuts and seeds, may also support immune function.
Do not apply any physical force to your body. Resting more will help you rapidly become healthy once again. Also try to get 8 hours of sleep.
Add more vitamin C-rich foods like oranges, strawberries, bell peppers, and broccoli into your diet.

When to Seek Professional Help

There are times when medical help is necessary, despite the fact that natural remedies are becoming increasingly popular as viable alternatives to common cold treatments and can even aid in treating cold symptoms by alleviating them. Contact your healthcare professional if you:

Have a fever lasting more than three days.
Experience difficulty breathing or chest pain.
Notice symptoms worsening after several days of illness.

Final note

The seasonal colds and flu can be difficult for many people but specific natural remedies can suppress symptoms while your body heals faster. Several natural methods that boost your immune system include using honey, gargling with saltwater, eating ginger and eating food rich in vitamin C in addition to steam inhalation.

Keep a close eye on healthcare professional recommendations about the use of herbal remedies while also consulting your doctor about persistent symptoms. These natural remedies bring both health benefits and safety when battling the flu season so you can both protect your well-being and stay updated.

Looking for more personalized advice? Book a telehealth appointment with our online doctor today.