People can tell you which flu remedies are the best. Some believe that over-the-counter medication is the best way to relieve symptoms. Some people believe homeopathy works best. Others feel their doctor is the best person to help them make the right decision.
My husband would tell you that the best way to get flu is not to get it (although he is not always the most helpful). Because he is rarely sick, he talks intelligently. He is very jealous of me. His genes are better than mine, he eats healthier and exercises more than me, yet I get sick more often than him.
Nearly every year, I get the flu. I have tried several over-the-counter and homeopathic medications. I also went to the doctor when I had severe flu symptoms.
Below are some of the most common and less well-known remedies for flu. Some remedies can be homeopathic, while others require prescriptions.
1) While the first tip is more of an idea to prevent you from getting sick again than a cure, I think it’s a great one. To prevent yourself from getting sick again, put your toothbrush in a cup containing hydrogen peroxide. This is especially important if you have a common cold. Toothbrushes can be a breeding ground for germs. Hydrogen peroxide will kill bacteria. To kill bacteria, you might decide to dip your toothbrush in hydrogen peroxide each day.
2) You may also want to soak your toothbrush in hydrogen peroxide. It can kill cold and flu germs. Hydrogen peroxide can sometimes sting. You can use a Q-tip or cotton ball to apply a few drops to one ear. After a few minutes, drain the fluid onto a Kleenex/paper towel. Next, repeat the process in the opposite ear. Continue the process for at least an hour. Keep going until the hydrogen peroxide does not bubble in the ear. This usually takes 2 to 3 times. It is best to use hydrogen peroxide as soon as you feel sick.
According to Israeli studies, elderberry extract may reduce the severity of the flu. For advice about how much to take and what to do with it, consult your pharmacist or herbalist.
Boneset, another herb that can help reduce the severity and duration of flu symptoms is also available. To make it easier to consume, you can add the herb to boiling water along with honey or lemon. For the best dosage, consult your doctor, pharmacist, or herbalist.
Oscillococcinum, a homeopathic/natural remedy, is used to treat flu symptoms such as body aches, pains, fever, chills and other symptoms. It does not cause sleepiness, which is why it is so popular.
Naturoksinum, another natural remedy for flu symptoms, is also available. It has been said to reduce flu symptoms by half. It is a popular flu remedy in France, and it is also available in the United States.
7) Echinacea, another natural remedy that is popular for treating the symptoms of the flu.
Flu. It is a herbal product so make sure to check with your doctor, pharmacist or herbalist to ensure it is safe to use and does not interact with any medications or supplements that you may be taking.
Tamiflu or Relenza, two prescription medications that can be used to treat the flu are Tamiflu (prescription) and Relenza (prescription). To ensure the best results, either medication should be taken within two days of symptoms arising from flu. Tamiflu and Relenza both prevent the flu virus infecting healthy cells.
9) Take health juices like noni, goji and aloe vera. These juices can be used to prevent the flu. A mangosteen juice is my personal health drink of choice. It tastes great and makes me feel much better.
10) There are many products that can be used in the bath, or in the shower to treat the flu symptoms. Abra Bath is a product that you can add to your bath water. It’s said to reduce congestion, relieve body aches and relieve the symptoms of flu. Sudafed also makes Sudacare Shower Soothers. These tablets react with warm water to produce vapors of menthol, eucalyptus and camphor that can be used to relieve congestion.
11) Over-the-counter nasal sprays are available to relieve flu symptoms. Flu Relief is one such product. Nasal sprays may not be as well-known as other remedies, but many people don’t like using them.
12) Common symptoms of flu include fever, headaches and aching muscles. The pain can be reduced by taking acetaminophen and ibuprofen (both available over-the-counter).
13) A persistent cough may be present when a person has the flu (http://www.microflu.com/flusymptoms/). Robitussin, which has specific formulas for flu symptoms, is an over-the-counter cough medicine that can be used to relieve a cough.
14) Congestion is another sign that you may experience when you have the flu. A decongestant oral can be used to relieve congestion. There are many over-the-counter products that can be used to treat flu symptoms, such as congestion. Congestion relief can be achieved by Vick’s Vapor Rub.
15) Sore throats can also be a sign of the flu. You can use throat lozenges and sprays to ease the pain. Warm salt water is what I use to gargle when my throat hurts. This is a method my mom used to heal my throat when I was a child. It worked for my mom when I was little and still works today.
16) You must rest to fight the flu. To fight the flu, your body needs to rest. You don’t have to give up on the urge to curl up under the sheets and get some rest. It will make you feel much better and more productive.
17) Take as much fluid as you can if you have the flu. Caffeinated drinks can act as mild diuretics so avoid caffeine. Water is the best liquid, but it can be difficult for people who feel sick to drink enough. Clear juices, Gatorade (or any other sports drink) are good options. My mom always gave me 7-up when I had the flu as a child. It was easy to consume and I didn’t feel sick. I also liked the taste so I was able drink enough to avoid becoming dehydrated.
Remember that flu can be life-threatening depending on the strain. If your symptoms do not improve within a few days, or if they become very severe, don’t hesitate to call your doctor.
Remember to only treat what you feel when you have the flu or are ill with any other illness. Flu symptoms can be treated with many over-the-counter remedies. Many of these products can relieve multiple symptoms. Sometimes you may not have all the symptoms that a particular medication treats. You should only look for products that address the symptoms you already have. Don’t over-medicate.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for education purposes only. It is not meant to diagnose, treat or prevent illness or disease.
