Influenza is a common viral disease that can erupt at a seasonal change. The manifestations are quite obvious and cold, sore throat, fever and body ache are commonly observed symptoms. Sometimes there is stomach ache, bowel disturbances or even rashes on the skin surface.
While there are many medicines available to treat these symptoms, viral infections generally subside after running their natural course of disease. However, during this period, they cause a lot of discomfort to the patient and often there is a chance of secondary bacterial infection. Special care needs to be taken in order to avoid this and provide relief from the symptoms.
Herbal remedies
If you are fond of herbal medicines and would like to follow a natural cure for the treatment of seasonal flu, you can now do it yourself. Here are some herbal remedies that you can prepare on your own.
1. Herbal tea
Herbal tea can make wonders by helping you to fight back the flu attack in a refreshing way. The herbs that are used in this tea have natural medicinal properties and can aid in providing relief to the irritating symptoms. It acts as a natural decongestant and helps to loosen the trapped mucus.
Guidelines
Take 2 cups water and heat it. Add ½ teaspoon peppermint leaves, ½ teaspoon tulsi or basil leaves, some grated ginger and a pinch of finely powdered clove and cinnamon. Allow these herbs to boil in the water for a few minutes, strain and your herbal tea is ready. Adding jaggery or honey is up to you. Honey is known to sooth the strained throat.
2. Steam inhalation
Steam inhalation can provide dramatic relief from blocked nasal passages and allows the mucus to drain out. Pain in the sinus region can also be relieved with this. It also clears the breathing airways and improves breathing.
Guidelines
Take 2 cups of water and heat it. Remove it from the heat and add few drops of lavender oil, rosemary oil, peppermint oil and eucalyptus oil. Cover your head and hold your face over the top of the vessel and deeply inhale the steam coming out of it. You can also use the vessel specially designed for inhalation for ease.
3. Gargles
For ages, gargles have been considered as an effective way of treating throat infections. Take a cup of water and heat it to boil. Add a pinch of salt and turmeric powder to it. You can also add peppermint leaves or dried sage leaves to make it more effective. It is advisable to gargle with this remedy at least twice a day and enjoy the relief.
