Natural ways to fight colds and flu
The autumn and winter period is a real plague of colds and flu. It is getting colder and colder outside, and these are ideal conditions for bacteria and viruses. Of course, prevention is prevention, but still - especially at this time - it happens that some illness strikes us. Not everyone has a well-stocked medicine cabinet, and not every “remedy” will work to the benefit of overall health. It is therefore worth keeping in mind natural and, importantly, effective methods of fighting colds and flu.
Vitamin C
Even with a poorly stocked home medicine cabinet, vitamin C is something that probably everyone has. It is not without reason that it has been hailed as one of the basic remedies for flu and colds. It is a strong antioxidant and significantly reduces the level of harmful free radicals, while also promoting health. Experts confirm that taking it in appropriate amounts shortens the duration of a cold and also lowers the risk of developing it. It has been proven that it activates cytotoxic lymphocytes and NK cells, which in turn “engulf” disease-causing microorganisms, leading to their digestion and thus elimination. It is best to reach for vitamin C from natural sources (e.g. acerola and rose hip), together with bioflavonoids (e.g. sea buckthorn). A fairly popular and often expert-recommended practice is to take it every 3-4 h in a daily dose of 2 g to 5 g – on the day when we feel a cold coming on.
Broth, the so-called power soup
Broth is one of the most commonly used home remedies for a cold. Of course, this is not about soup prepared on the basis of the popular (unfortunately) stock cubes, but about a real, natural bone broth with fresh vegetables. It is best to cook it with meat and bones, and additionally add the classic soup vegetables, garlic and onion to the pot. A touch of turmeric and pepper will not hurt either. Broth prepared in this way will be a real bomb of micronutrients and amino acids essential for fighting a cold, which will support the functioning of the immune system. All the more so because the demand for vitamins and other nutrients increases significantly when illness strikes.
Supplements recommended for colds and flu
Hydration
Proper hydration is particularly important when fever accompanies the flu or a cold. In such a case the body uses and excretes increased amounts of fluids. Fever is a natural phenomenon, although if too high it can pose a danger. Drinking water will not only support our body's fight, but also prevent dehydration. It is worth trying to prepare infusions with ginger and cloves. Ginger in particular is characterized by a broad range of beneficial properties. It works both for colds (fever, runny nose) and stomach problems. It will be a great addition to teas or herbal blends in the form of infusions.
Omega-3 with anti-inflammatory action
Eating oily sea fish may turn out to be a good idea due to the content of healthy omega-3 acids (especially EPA and DHA). These, in turn, support immunity and have an anti-inflammatory effect, which is also extremely useful in flu / cold conditions. Given the increasingly frequent indications of fish contamination, if we are not sure of the source, we can consider omega-3 supplementation.
Elderberry is just the thing for a cold
Elderberry is unfortunately a highly underrated plant. Why unfortunately? Well, its extracts are a real treasure trove of natural ingredients that will be especially beneficial for people with reduced immunity who are dealing with flu or a cold. What is more, the elements found in them have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antiviral effects. Aside from the fact that it is rich in vitamin C, it is worth remembering that it is best taken together with bioflavonoids, which elderberry is in fact also rich in. As a curiosity, it can be mentioned that experts maintain that the ingredients present in it can increase sweating during a fever, and additionally have an immunomodulatory effect.
Physical activity is good for everything
It is said that sport is health. There is a lot of truth in this, provided that exercise is approached sensibly, taking into account one's abilities. Besides, you do not have to be an athlete straight away to benefit from movement. It has been proven that physical activity, if practiced at a moderate intensity, supports the body's immunity. A regularly provided dose of moderate movement is able to increase both the number and activity of macrophages, which are one of the key elements of the first line of defense of our immune system. What is more, it will also improve the activity of Th lymphocytes (helper lymphocytes), which are part of the second line of defense. Introducing moderate activity will be important especially as part of preventive measures that reduce the risk of illness.
Proper nutrition is the basis
- Standard advice: first of all, we avoid highly processed foods and opt for the most natural and nutrient-rich products possible.
- The addition of sources of healthy fats is definitely advisable.
- It is worth paying attention to coconut oil, which has antiviral and antibacterial effects.
- Apple cider vinegar will be a good idea not only for digestive reasons, but also because of its antiseptic and antibacterial effect.
- We reduce sugar in the diet, especially if its share is high. In too large amounts it hinders the action of vitamin C and macrophages, whose task is to eliminate disease-causing microorganisms.
Garlic – a home remedy for centuries
Garlic, in various forms, used to be an inseparable part of every kitchen, and additionally of the home medicine cabinet. Our grandmothers did not recommend garlic syrup or an infusion for every flu or cold for no reason. It is considered a natural antibiotic with remarkable health-promoting power. garlic - natural ways for flu and colds Studies confirm that it has a strong antibacterial and antiviral effect, while preventing and fighting various types of infections.
Herbs – the power of nature
- chamomile: limits the growth of some fungi and bacteria, and also has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects,
- mint: helps combat microorganisms,
- thyme: has antibacterial and antiviral effects,
- raspberry leaves and elderberries: have a strengthening and diaphoretic effect,
- aronia: rich in vitamin C and anti-inflammatory phenolic acids,
- Baikal skullcap: has anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects,
- oregano: strengthens immunity, supports the fight against bacteria, viruses, fungi and inflammation.
Inhalations – an old and effective method
Steam inhalations are a method known for centuries and by no means less effective. It is enough to prepare certain herbs or buy ready-made blends, boil water in a pot, direct your head toward it and cover yourself with a towel to prevent the steam from escaping. To achieve the desired result, it is worth using some of the herbs mentioned above, e.g. oregano, chamomile, thyme.
