People have used natural remedies to relieve cold and flu symptoms for thousands of years. Cave drawings depict people using natural remedies from as far back as the Stone Age. Although natural remedies may not cure, they do help to soothe symptoms and speed up healing times. Some natural remedies and herbs may have side effects or interfere with other medications, so consult a health-care practitioner for advice about using herbs.
Chicken Soup
Endearingly known as Jewish penicillin, chicken soup does reduce congestion and body pain, according to the University of Maryland Medical Clinic. Steam rising from the soup relieves congestion, and there is some anecdotal and scientific evidence that indicates that some of the ingredients possess anti-inflammatory properties.
Hot Drinks
Hot lemonade and other warm teas are soothing to the throat and help relieve congestion. Drinking plenty of fluids rehydrates the body, replacing lost fluids, especially during an intestinal flu, where bodily fluids may be lost through diarrhea. Additionally, hot lemonade provides vitamin C, which is helpful for fighting colds and flu. Water is the best fluid to drink during illness, helping to lubricate dried out mucous membranes. Although there is no scientific evidence that milk produces mucous, many natural health practitioners believe it contributes to the production of mucous and causes diarrhea. Avoid milk during a cold or the flu.
Cayenne Pepper
A natural astringent with anti-inflammatory properties, cayenne pepper helps clear stuffy sinuses and settle the stomach during colds and flu. Making a tea from a pinch of cayenne pepper and a dollop of honey mixed with boiling water provides a soothing drink. Sip the tea throughout the day as needed. Cayenne pepper may be too strong for some people, causing burning and stomach upset. Use this herb with caution, and stop if discomfort continues.
Salt Water
An old-time remedy that stands the test of time, gargling with warm salt water soothes painful, scratchy throats. Do not swallow the salt water during gargling. In addition to gargling with salt water, spray or dribble a small amount in the nose to lubricate and clear stuffiness, according to the Pacific Lutheran University website.
Zinc
Suck on zinc lozenges during a cold to relieve a sore throat. Zinc helps boost the immune system, enabling the body to fight disease. If you continue to use zinc lozenges after the cold is over, reduce the dose to no higher than 15mg for men and 12mg for women daily, according to the University of Michigan University Health Service. Too much zinc when you are healthy can weaken the immune system and interfere with the absorption of other nutrients and minerals.
