Flu types and Symptoms:
Flu is different from a cold. Influenza or flu is an infectious respiratory illness caused by influenza virus types of A, B, and C and generally shows signs of a common cold. Type A and B viruses are active during seasonal changes. Whereas Type C shows mild respiratory problems.
It typically spreads through the air from coughs or sneezes and can also be transmitted by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus.
Common symptoms of the flu include a sudden onset of high fever, chills, and sweating. Individuals might experience a dry, persistent cough, sore throat, and nasal congestion or runny nose. Muscle or body aches, headaches, and feelings of fatigue or weakness are also prevalent, making daily activities difficult. Some people might also suffer from gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, though these are more common in children than adults.
The severity of symptoms can vary, but they generally come on abruptly, distinguishing the flu from a common cold. Recovery usually occurs within a week to ten days, though some might feel weak for a bit longer.
Common Symptoms:
- Fever and cough
- Sore throat
- Vomiting or diarrhea
- Nasal congestion
- Body aches
- Chill
- Sweating
Common Causes:
- Viruses spreads on air while coughing or sneezing by an infected person
- Usually spreads through direct contact
- Person to person direct physical contact
Natural Home Remedies:
Natural remedies for the flu can offer numerous benefits that complement or sometimes even serve as alternatives to conventional treatments. Many natural options, like herbal teas made from echinacea or elderberry, are rich in antioxidants and can help boost the immune system, potentially reducing the duration and severity of flu symptoms. Ingredients like honey and ginger have soothing properties that can ease sore throats and coughs, providing comfort without the side effects often associated with over-the-counter medications.
8 Quick Relief Tip for Flu:
- Honey and lemon
- fresh ginger juice, honey and lemon juice in a little bit of lukewarm water
- lemon juice, honey and a pinch of pepper in a little bit of lukewarm water
- Brew black pepper tea with Jaggery (dark brown sugar from palm tree)
- Peppermint tea
- Clear Vegetable soup with Thyme (crushed Thyme for extra benefit)
- Steam inhalation
- Salt and water gargle
- For Nasal congestion Read more about Neti
- Eat Nutritional and Vitamin Rich food
Natural food Supplements:
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
- Probiotics
Vitamin A rich food:
- Carrots
- Swiss Chard
- Spinach
- Bell Peppers
- Other Dark Green Leafy Vegetables
- Sweet Potato, cooked
- Winter Squash, cooked
- Turnip Greens, cooked
- Lettuce
- Dried Fruits
- Cantaloupe
- Mango
- Cantaloupe
- Red Grapefruit
- Papaya
- Milk
- Butter
- Regular Cheese
Vitamin C rich food:
- Peppers
- Broccoli
- Cabbage
- Brussels sprouts
- Cauliflower
- Kale
- Potato
- Bok Choy
- Sweet potato
- Asparagus
- Turnip greens
- Tomato
- Guava
- Papaya
- Kiwifruit
- Orange
- Lychee
- Strawberries
- Pineapple
- Grapefruit
- Clementine
- Cantaloupe
- Mango
- Avocado
- Tangerine
- Grain Products
- Milk and Alternatives
Vitamin E rich food:
- Spinach
- Dandelion greens, raw
- Tomato sauce
- Swiss chard, cooked
- Turnip greens, cooked
- Pepper, red
- Avocado
- Grains Products
- Cereal, wheat germ, toasted
- Milk and Alternatives
- Nuts and Seeds
- Almonds
- Sunflower seeds
- Hazelnuts
- Peanuts
- Pine nuts
- Brazil nuts
Additionally, natural remedies such as steam inhalation with essential oils like eucalyptus can help alleviate nasal congestion and promote easier breathing. Hydration through natural sources like broths or herbal infusions not only prevents dehydration but also helps in flushing out toxins.
Moreover, these remedies often come with fewer risks of drug interactions and resistance, which is particularly beneficial for individuals who need to manage multiple health conditions or prefer a holistic approach to health. By focusing on natural methods, one might also foster a sense of control over their health, encouraging self-care practices that support overall well-being.
NOTE: Natural Remedies are NOT a substitute for proper doctor’s diagnosis or medication. It may or may not have medicinal properties that treat or cure the disease or ailment in question.