Home remedies for the flu can help get you back on your feet faster. Herbal flu remedies with antiviral properties relieve fever, congestion, cough, and sore throat.
Since flu is caused by a virus, antibiotics are of no help unless a secondary bacterial infection develops along with the flu infection. This usually only occurs after having had the flu for many days. If you have had the flu for over a week and you are getting worse, suspect a bacterial infection and see your doctor.
Flu or Influenza Symptoms
Flu or influenza symptoms are very similar to the symptoms of the common cold, only worse, and they come on suddenly. Symptoms can include:
high fever
sore throat
muscle aches
runny nose
chills
headache
feeling very tired
nausea
dry cough
diarrhea
Not all of these symptoms have to be present for you to have the flu. Children are more likely to have vomiting and diarrhea than adults. This list is also true for Swine Flu symptoms.
Teas Made with Antiviral Herbs
Make a tea with one of these antiviral herbs and sip a cup three times a day.
Elder Flower Tea
Peppermint Tea
Ginger Tea
Echinacea Tea
Barberry Bark Tea
Sage TeaLemon Balm Tea
These home remedies for the flu are especially good because they add to the amount of liquid you are drinking. It always helps both colds and flu to drink lots of liquid including tea, water, and fruit juices.
Relieve Flu Symptoms With These Inhalations
Make an inhalation by boiling a pint of water. Remove the pan from the stove and add the herb or herbs. Place the pan on a table. Put a towel over your head to make a tent and bend over the pan breathing in the steam. The following herbs are good for inhalations and will help heal the throat and loosen mucus:
thyme
chamomile
eucalyptus
Since the flu and colds are both caused by a virus (a different virus but still a virus) and have common symptoms you may also like to read:
Disclaimer: Always consult your medical professional before trying any homemade treatment. This site is designed for informational purposes only and is not rendering medical advice or professional services.