The best home remedies for the flu
Many people prefer to turn to home remedies for flu, despite the wide variety of drug products sold for the same purpose. Ingredients such as garlic, honey, and lemon continue to be a good alternative for calming symptoms and speeding up healing. How to use them? What does science say about their properties?
Research in recent years has begun to evaluate the real effectiveness of some natural ingredients when it comes to calming symptoms such as nasal congestion, phlegm, and malaise. In case of a cold or flu, we, therefore, recommend that you try one of the following recipes.
5 home remedies for the flu
Often the flu matures with each passing day and improves without the need for specific treatment. However, the symptoms are bothersome and can interrupt daily activities. Therefore, it is always useful to know some home remedies capable of giving relief and well-being. Let's take a look at some traditional, but science-backed recipes.
1. Herbal tea with garlic, honey, and lemon
Garlic has always been one of the main ingredients in home remedies for the flu. According to a study published in Trends in Food Science and Technology, it has immunomodulatory properties that help improve the response against viruses. Indeed, its antiviral potential is recognized.
In this recipe, it is combined with honey and lemon, two equally positive ingredients for the immune system. Honey, in particular, is often used as an adjuvant against symptoms such as cough and irritation of the respiratory tract.
Ingredients
- 3 cloves of garlic.
- 1/2 lemon.
- 1 tablespoon of honey (15 g)
- 1 cup of water (250 ml).
Method of preparation
- To start, mash the garlic cloves and place them in a pot of water.
- Boil the mixture for 5 minutes and add the lemon.
- Strain the drink and sweeten it with honey.
- Consume one cup a day for 3 weeks.
Garlic for the flu.
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| Garlic is a food with antiviral properties. That is why it is often used in flu pictures. |
2. Ginger tea
In traditional medicine, fresh ginger is one of the most used ingredients to soothe cold and flu symptoms. According to an article published in the International Journal of Health Sciences (IJHS), its antiviral qualities are largely due to its content of phenolic compounds, such as gingerol. This, among other things, stimulates the body's defenses and reduces fever.
Ingredients
- Fresh ginger (15 g).
- 1 tablespoon of honey (10 g)
- 1 cup of water (250 ml).
- Lemon (optional)
Method of preparation
- First, chop the ginger.
- Then add it to a cup of boiling water and let it steep for 10 minutes.
- Strain the drink and add the honey and lemon.
- Drink a cup 2 or 3 times a day for 2 weeks.
3. Elderberry herbal tea
A recent study published in BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies points to elderberry as a viable option for treating viral respiratory infections. This is largely due to its anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects. Although more studies are needed, moderate use is considered safe.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons of elderberry leaves (30 g).
- 1 teaspoon of lime (15 g).
- 1 cup of water (250 ml).
Preparation
- Bring the water to a boil, then add the herbs.
- Cover the drink and let it sit for 10 minutes.
- After this time, filter through a colander and consume.
- Drink one cup every night before going to bed for 2-3 weeks.
4. Aloe vera, lemon, and honey gel
Aloe vera gel is known for its anti-ulcer and cosmetic properties. What many people don't know is that it also acts as an antiviral.
A review published in the journal Molecules supports these effects and explains that they are due to its polysaccharides. In combination with lemon and honey, its effects are enhanced, as well as having a better flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons of aloe vera (30 g).
- 1 lemon
- 1 tablespoon of honey (15 g)
Preparation
- Add the aloe vera gel to a bowl and mix it with lemon and honey.
- If you want a more homogeneous mixture, blend it.
- Consume the drink 2 times a day for 3-4 days.
Note: avoid excessive consumption, as it has a laxative effect.
5. Tisana all echinacea
Due to its concentration of flavonoids, echinacea is used as a supplement to promote well-being in the presence of various pathologies. Evidence suggests that it has positive effects in relieving upper respiratory tract infections. Therefore, it is a good remedy for reducing flu symptoms.
Ingredients
- 1 cup of water (250 ml).
- 1 tablespoon dried echinacea leaves (10 g).
Preparation
- Bring the cup of water to a boil, then add the echinacea and cover. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes.
- Filter the drink and drink it.
- Drink 2 cups a day for 1 week.
Consumption tips
In general, moderate and occasional consumption of these remedies is considered safe. However, it should be borne in mind that they are not exempt from causing side effects. Therefore, before resorting to a natural treatment it is advisable to inquire about it.
Nor should it be ignored that they may have contraindications and drug interactions. In this sense, if you have a pre-existing disease or if you are taking medications, it is best to ask your doctor.
