Introduction:

The flu (or influenza) is caused by a virus. Several kinds of viruses can give you the flu. While there’s no treatment for the flu, there are natural remedies that might help soothe flu symptoms.

Drink water and fluids

Drinking water and other fluids is even more important when you have the flu. This is true whether you have a respiratory flu or a stomach flu.

Water helps to keep your nose, mouth, and throat moist. This helps your body get rid of built-up mucous and phlegm.

Get plenty of rest

It’s important to rest and get more sleep when you have the flu. Sleeping can help boost your immune system. This helps your body fight off the flu virus.

Drink warm broth

Bone broth is also naturally high in protein and minerals like sodium and potassium. Drinking broth is a good way to replenish these nutrients while you have the flu. You can buy ready-made varieties, but be sure to look for those that are low in

Increase your zinc intake

The mineral zinc is important for your immune system. This nutrient helps your body make germ-fighting white blood cells.  Zinc helps your body fight the flu virus and may slow down how fast it multiplies.

You can take a zinc supplement or a multivitamin with zinc during flu season. You can normally get plenty of zinc from a balanced daily diet.  Some foods rich in zinc are fish, lentils. chickpeas, beans, nuts, seeds, dairy and eggs.

Rinse with salt water

A warm water and salt rinse (sometimes called a salt water gargle) can soothe a sore throat. It can also help to clear mucous.

Drink herbal tea

Several herbs have natural antiviral and antibacterial properties. Star anise is a star-shaped spice.  Its antiviral properties are effective against some kinds of flu viruses. Other herbs and green leafy teas also have germ-fighting and antioxidant benefits.

An herbal tea may help your body fight off the flu virus. A hot herbal drink is also soothing to your throat and sinuses.

You can make a flu-fighting herbal tea with star anise and other herbs like: green or black tea, turmeric, fresh or dried ginger paste, fresh garlic and cloves.

Essential oils

Some essential oils protect against viruses and bacteria and prevent virus multiplication. Some essential oils are; cinnamon oil, peppermint oil, eucalyptus oil, geranium oil, lemon oil, thyme oil and oregano oil.

Use a humidifier.

The flu virus survives longer in dry indoor air. This may make the virus spread more easily. Using a humidifier to add humidity in your home and workplace might help reduce flu viruses in the air.

Bland diet

If you have the stomach flu, eat small amounts of food at a time. Try hand-sized portions.

The stomach flu can give you nausea, cramps, and diarrhoea. Bland foods are easier to digest and may help ease your stomach symptoms.

Foods to avoid while you have the stomach flu

They are milk, cheese, caffeine, meats, spicy foods, fried foods and alcohol.

Conclusion:

The Flu is seasonal and is self limiting and by following this natural remedies, its virulent course can be mitigated in most cases.