Flu and cold are two of the most common infections. Both of them are infections of the nose and the throat, which are parts of the respiratory system. And while they both are mostly harmless and have no major impact on your physical health, symptoms such as body aches, nasal congestion, and fever can take a toll on you. For effective treatment, visit a General Physician in Lahore. But apart from that, there are some home remedies you can incorporate into your routine to get better as soon as possible from your flu and cold.
Signs and symptoms of flu and cold:
Before we jump on to the remedies, here are some signs that can help you identify your flu and cold.
- Coughing
- Runny nose
- Blocked sinuses
- Headache
- Body ache
- Fever
- Getting chills
- Sore throat
Best Home Remedies To Treat Flu and Cold
Overcoming the flu or cold requires patience and dedication. Here are some home remedies that can be of great help to you.
- Honey
Honey is known to have antibacterial and antimicrobial properties which help a great deal in battling bacteria and viruses. Research shows that honey is effective in relieving coughs in children over the age of one. However, it is important to take note that honey shouldn’t be given to children younger than one year, as their immune systems aren’t developed enough to process it. Available everywhere, honey is easy to get. It has a pleasant taste which encourages individuals to take it diligently. One way of taking it can be by mixing it in hot water to soothe your sore throat. To improve taste, you can also add lemon.
- Hydration
This remedy often goes ignored because of its simplicity. But general physicians often recommend keeping your body hydrated to recover as soon as possible. When your body is adequately hydrated, it can ward off and flush the germs out of its system. Water can also help with nasal congestion. Also, fluids can help your body gain the strength needed to overcome these infections.
- Chicken Soup
Chicken soup is a great dietary treatment to fight off the flu and cold. If it contains vegetables and low sodium, it can be your perfect meal to take when sick. The vegetables, along with the chicken carry great nutritional value and can give you the energy you need to get better. Chicken soup can also slow the movements of neutrophils in your body, which are a type of white blood cells. Their main job is to prevent the body from infections, and their slow and steady movements can help them stay concentrated in the area that needs healing, ultimately speeding your recovery.
- Ginger
Ginger has a number of health benefits. Research shows that a few slices of ginger root boiled in water can help soothe your sore throat, and improve your cough. Ginger tea can also help in overcoming feelings of nausea that are commonly associated with the flu, and it also boosts your immunity.
- Garlic
With antiviral and antibacterial properties, garlic has numerous health benefits. It can fight off the common cold and is proven by researchers to be an effective home remedy. It is quite accessible and is easily available in every market. You can incorporate it into your diet in a number of ways. For example, you can eat it raw, add it to your food or take it as a supplement.
- Vitamins
Taking vitamin supplements specifically vitamin C can shorten the span of flu/cold and boost your immunity, helping you recover faster. Similarly, vitamin D can also help reduce the frequency of colds. You can take it by eating foods that contain it or by taking its supplements.
- Ginseng and Echinacea
Herbs such as ginseng and echinacea can help abate the symptoms of flu and cold effectively. With its antiviral properties, echinacea can help fight against flu viruses. On the other hand, ginseng can also reduce the risk and duration of flu and cold symptoms.
- Probiotics
Probiotics are “friendly” bacteria that can significantly reduce your chances of getting upper respiratory infections. They also help keep your immune system and gut health.
If your symptoms continue to worsen even after trying the above-mentioned home remedies visit a general physician by logging onto oladoc.com at your earliest.
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