Natural Treatment for Influenza

Influenza or flu is a respiratory disease caused by viral infections. These viruses are present in the air or are passed from an infected person to another through the medium of air. These viruses can then enter into the body of the other person through the nose or mouth. Though these virus attacks are not always harmful to the health, they can cause disease when the immunity is low or compromised. Flu has become an extremely common disorder in the entire world, so much so that every year in the United States of America, alone about 5% to 20% of the population becomes sick due to the flu. For people who are already sick or have low immunity, like the elderly, infants, or those suffering from chronic illnesses, flu can be very dangerous and even deadly at times.

The symptoms of flu are very typical. Though they appear very much like cold, these symptoms are in reality very different from common cold. Some of these symptoms include cough, headaches, sore throat, chills, body ache, fatigue and sore throat. The onset of symptoms is sudden and the symptoms intensify quickly.

• The treatment of influenza can be done through conventional medicines or through home remedies. Usually, for viral infections, medicines are prescribed by the doctor. These medicines may need to be taken for an entire week. However, home remedies can bring immediate relief from the symptoms of influenza. Here’s what you can use as a home treatment for influenza.
• Vitamin C can help boost immunity and repair tissue damage done by the virus. Regular consumption of vitamin C increases the white blood cells in the body and therefore the overall immunity is boosted. Oranges, pineapples, and Indian gooseberry are all rich in vitamin C.
• Another simple influenza treatment is to take zinc lozenges. Zinc too can help boost the immunity of the body, making the body strong enough to repel the attacks of stray virus.
• To inhibit the growth of virus in your body take a fresh clove of garlic, crush it, and drink it with a glass of water. You can also consume garlic capsules if you can get your hands on some.
• Brew a decoction of half a teaspoon of cayenne pepper powder and one teaspoon each of bayberry bark and ginger root. Bring this to boil in a cup of water. Once the tea is brewed, add a small spoon of honey and drink it while still hot.