As the cold weather approaches, the flu season begins to rear its ugly head.
While the knee jerk reaction for many is to cure it with over the counter meds, there actually quite a few at home remedies you can try that are totally natural, as well as some you can purchase in natural health food stores:
Antioxidants – As mentioned in previous posts, antioxidants, such as Vitamin C, are extremely important in protecting your body against harmful free radicals, bacteria and viruses. Try eating vibrantly coloured fruits and vegetables, citrus fruits like lemons, or taking a Vitamin C supplement (low in sugar and preservatives!).
Ginger – This root can actually help reduce pain and inflammation that can be induced by the flu, as well as help control nausea. It can also fight against bad bacteria in the body.
Garlic – Garlic is one of the most powerful antibacterials, antifungals, antivirals…and more! Having it in its raw form will provide the most beneficial medicinal properties when dealing with the flu, or in supplement form (the key ingredient being allicin).
Oil of oregano – This powerful, natural tincture is not pleasant to take, but has amazing antibacterial properties, and is especially helpful when dealing with a sore throat.
Bee propolis – A similar tincture to oil of oregano (although not as powerful in flavour) is bee propolis. It is a natural protective material created from bees, and is known to help with fighting bad bacteria and infections.
Honey – Another amazing product of the bees! Honey is not only sweet and delicious, but it is also an amazing viral and bacterial fighter, especially when it comes to the flu. Adding it to your tea is a great way to take in the health benefits.
Water – Stay hydrated! The more water you drink while sick, the more it helps your body flush out any germs, bacteria and toxins that are causing you to feel ill. By drinking more fluids and reducing the amount of food you eat while sick, it also preserves the energy you need to help fight your sickness (as opposed to digesting).
Sleep – The most necessary thing you can do to feel better! Our immune systems work on the highest level when we are in bed, so the more you rest when you aren’t feeling well, the quicker you will heal your sickness.
