The flu comes from the influenza virus and it is a contagious respiratory disease. Although the flu is usually self-limited, when it becomes an acute infection, it can be dangerous in certain groups.
Acute infections can cause serious complications in people with low immunity, such as individuals over the age of 65, pregnant women, young children, and people with chronic health conditions (diabetes, asthma, heart disease, cancer, etc.).
Usually antiviral drugs can reduce symptoms and speed up the recovery process by a day or two. Natural treatments using herbal medicines can also help relieve symptoms and shorten recovery time.
If you prefer natural remedies, here are the herbal cold relievers whose information has been summarized from Healthline, Medical News Todayand So HDFC.
1. Echinacea
illustration of echinacea (pexels.com/skitterphoto)
Plant roots echinacea it has been used for over 400 years as an herb to treat infections. The active ingredients contained in it, such as flavonoids, can boost the immune system and reduce inflammation.
A 2020 study states that consuming echinacea may help treat symptoms of the common cold in children.
There is also research that states that drinking echinacea as effective as the antiviral drug oseltamivir (an antiviral used in the treatment of influenza A and B) and reduces the risk of adverse side effects or complications.
2. Honey
honey illustration (pexels.com/romanodintsov)
Honey can help treat a number of internal diseases. Possessing various antibacterial and antimicrobial properties that allow it to fight some bacteria and viruses, drinking honey with tea and lemon mixture can soothe sore throats.
Research states that honey is also an effective cough suppressant. However, keep in mind that children under 1 year of age should not consume honey due to the risk of botulism. Although it is usually harmless for children over 1 year old and adults, for babies, the immune system is able to fight back.
3. Garlic
garlic illustration (pexels.com/nickcollins)
Garlic has long been a home remedy for colds and flu. This herbal ingredient can help fight the common cold because it has antibacterial and antiviral properties.
One study found that people who took daily garlic supplements for 3 months had fewer colds than those who didn’t.
Garlic can be consumed raw, or it can be used as a spice in the kitchen and added to food. In addition, it can also be consumed in supplement form.
4. Ginger
ginger infused water illustration (pexels.com/ecter)
Ginger is usually consumed as a cooking spice, but can also be in the form of tea. Ginger is effective in relieving cold symptoms, especially when consumed as a drink.
Sliced raw ginger in boiling water can help soothe a cough or sore throat. Research shows that it can also ward off the nausea that often accompanies the flu.
5. Oregano
oregano plant illustration (pexels.com/onderortel)
Oregano contains thymol and carvacrol, both of which have an antibacterial effect. Usually people traditionally use essential oils that contain thymol to relieve headaches, diarrhea, and coughs.
It is known that ingesting oregano oil or applying it to the chest can help relieve cold symptoms.
Also Read: Are There Herbal and Alternative Treatments for COPD?
6. Thyme
thyme plant illustration (pexels.com/karolinagabrowska)
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Thyme still a family member mint which is usually a staple spice in the kitchen and has a distinct taste. Historically, the ancient Greeks used thyme as incense and the ancient Egyptians also used it for embalming purposes.
Thyme touted to boost immunity, and contain antibacterial and antifungal properties. Leaf thyme known as a decongestant and expectorant can be an essential oil that can be used to relieve cold symptoms.
Leaf thyme contains vitamins A and C which can be processed into tea and can help clear nasal congestion and mucus caused by colds.
7. Dandelion
dandelion illustration (pexels.com/pixabay)
A 2020 study concluded that an aqueous extract of dandelion 0.625–5 milligrams per milliliter (mg/ml) can reduce the risk of infection by influenza A virus in human lung cells.
Dandelion can be taken as a supplement or consumed as a salad, soup or tea.
Pregnant women should avoid using dandelion.
8. Cinnamon
cinnamon illustration (pexels.com/pixabay)
Cinnamon bark also has antiviral properties. This natural ingredient is one of several so-called traditional Japanese medicinal ingredients feet.
Using cinnamon in food is also considered safe, but pregnant women should avoid using it.
9. North American ginseng
North American ginseng plant illustration (youtube.com/SuperfoodEvolution)
A study of herbal products containing North American ginseng found that it reduced the risk and duration of cold and flu symptoms in older adults.
Ginseng can also be consumed raw or consumed in capsule or herbal tea form.
11. Sambiloto
Sambiloto illustration (youtube.com/blissedzone)
Sambiloto or scientific language (Andrographis paniculata) is an annual herb native to India and Sri Lanka. This herb is used to treat the common cold as well as viral infections of the upper respiratory tract.
Sambiloto has an anti-inflammatory and immunostimulating mechanism that can relieve respiratory symptoms due to colds, sinusitis and flu, as well as accelerate recovery.
Also Read: Alternatives to Syrup Medicine, Try These Herbs to Relieve Coughs
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