Cold, Cough And Flu In Winters: 5 Home Remedies To Protect Yourself From Influenza During Cold Season
It’s that time of the year when seasonal illnesses such as cold, cough, and flu affect one’s health. As the winter season grips, the flu begins to rise. Flu is a common winter ailment that is usually caused by the influenza virus, which infects the nose, throat, and lungs. A cough or cold can keep you up all night and make you feel extremely uncomfortable and sick. With certain home remedies, one can effectively treat colds or coughs and get rid of other seasonal illnesses as well. Here are some effective home remedies that can treat colds, coughs, and other seasonal illnesses.
Watch the video below about common symptoms of influenza:
Ginger is one of the most effective home remedies to treat seasonal illnesses. It has antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties that help in managing nausea and ease joint pain as well. You can either drink ginger tea or warm ginger water to get relief from cold and cough.
Honey is an incredible remedy to treat cough, cold, and flu, says Dr. Emily Thompson, a renowned naturopathic physician. The antibacterial and antimicrobial properties of honey help to treat a nagging cough for the majority of people. According to the Mayo Clinic, drinking tea or warm lemon water mixed with honey is a time-honoured way to soothe a sore throat. But honey alone may be an effective cough suppressant, too.
Another effective way to treat cold, cough, and sore throat is by using garlic. Garlic contains a powerful compound known as allicin that possesses antimicrobial and antiviral properties. Dr. Michael Johnson, a respected immunologist, suggests, To use garlic for seasonal illnesses, you can roast a garlic clove and eat it with a spoonful of honey before going to bed. This combination helps alleviate symptoms and supports the body’s natural healing process.
Furthermore, a saltwater gargle is a useful treatment for a sore throat and cough. According to WebMD, saltwater’s added moisture can help thin mucus and wash away substances that irritate your throat, much as a saline rinse helps the nose. Experts recommend gargling with a solution of a little salt and warm water to find relief.
Dr. Sarah Collins, a renowned herbalist, recommends using peppermint to relieve the symptoms of a cold or cough. Peppermint contains menthol, which may help in relieving cough and cold. You can use peppermint oil as well, as it provides much-needed relaxation to the muscles of the windpipe, says Dr. Collins.
When it comes to treating seasonal illnesses like cold, cough, and flu, these home remedies can be beneficial. However, it’s important to note that if symptoms persist or worsen, it is always advisable to consult a healthcare professional for appropriate medical advice and treatment.
With the winter season in full swing, it’s crucial to take preventive measures to protect yourself from the influenza virus. In addition to these home remedies, maintaining good hygiene practices such as regularly washing hands, covering the mouth and nose while coughing or sneezing, and avoiding close contact with individuals who are sick can significantly reduce the risk of catching the flu.
Remember, prevention is always better than cure, and with these simple home remedies and preventive measures, you can effectively safeguard yourself from cold, cough, and flu during the winter season.
ALSO READ: Boost Your Immunity This Winter By Consuming These 6 Dry Fruit Ladoos
Note: This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice.
