Flu or influenza is not just a severe cold. It is much more pronounced than severe cold as it infects the lungs and joints. While the conventional treatments for flu are limited, there are a number of natural herbs that you could resort to for curing flu. While the herbal remedies for flu help the body heal naturally by boosting the immune system, they also reduce the severity and duration of the infection. Here are the top 5 herbs that could be of your help to treat flu.
Licorice root contains glycyrrhizin, a compound that is found to have potent antiviral effects on several diseases including AIDS and SARS. A number of studies have concluded that licorice root extract can fight off flu, and virus, including the avian flu virus. Licorice root is also used to treat autoimmune conditions like lupus, scleroderma, and animal dander allergies. Consult your doctor before consuming licorice, as the root has been found to interfere with some medications. Long term use of glycyrrhizin or licorice root can cause fluid retention, leading to ankle and facial edema. It can also result in hypertension.
Garlic has been touted since ages for its healing powers. Fresh garlic is bequeathed with innate anti-viral, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal properties. Its therapeutic effect comes from allicin, a compound that gives it its characteristic smell. It also contains several health promoting ingredients such as arginine-rich proteins, selenium, flavonoids, and oligosaccharides. Chew a clove of garlic daily to prevent or combat cold and flu. You can mix garlic with honey, if you find the flavor too overpowering. Consume fresh garlic for optimum benefits. Three, single, medium sized clove is usually sufficient.
Elderberry has been used for centuries as a tonic for cold flu and sinus. It is well known for its ability to ward off and cure the flu virus. It is held in high esteem all over the world as an efficient anti-viral herb. Not just the berry, but the leaves, stems and flowers are also used for medicinal purposes. It contains a compound called viburnum acid, which encourages perspiration and aids in the detoxification process. The compounds found in elderberry help reduce swelling in mucous membranes, such as sinus and nasal congestion. It contains flavonoids, which prevents damage to the body’s cells. It also purifies the blood and cleanses the body cells off pathogens. Elderberry herb for flu is safe on children as well. Prepare a hot infusion combining elderberry tincture, yarrow, and peppermint right before going to sleep to induce sweating. Elderberry also has anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties.
Boneset is considered by many herbalists as one of the best herbs to treat flu. It is an immune stimulant herb used since time immemorial to treat influenza and severe fever. Its name is derived from its ability to treat terrible fever associated with the flu. Boneset is used by the Native Americans to treat body aches and pains. It is not only used to treat flu, but is also beneficial for alleviating respiratory allergies, rheumatoid arthritis, urinary tract infection, and jaundice. This powerful herb contains 23 nutrients, including calcium, iron, magnesium, niacin, selenium, Vitamin A and Vitamin C. Boneset is best taken as an infusion or tea. Drink 4 to 5 cups of tea daily to induce sweating. Boneset is also an expectorant, antispasmodic, aperients, and diaphoretic.
Thyme is a must have herb for treating cold and flu. It contains high amounts of volatile oils, which help to fight infection. Prepare an herbal tea by adding 2 teaspoons fresh thyme in boiling water. Simmer for 10 minutes and drink this tea twice a day to get rid of the flu. Add a few drops of thyme essential oil in a bowl of hot water. Lean over the bowl and cover the head and bowl with a towel. Inhaling the steam will help to loosen the mucus in the chest, relieving flu.
Always consult a physician or a health care practitioner before taking herbs or other any other alternative treatment.