Health: Flu Natural Remedies

The flu is a real harass one this season!  Multiple news sources are claiming that “this flu season keeps getting deadlier.”  So what exactly is the flu?  The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by a virus.  This virus is known as the influenza virus and is spread via the air from person to person.  Signs and symptoms of the flu are common and include:

  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Runny nose
  • Fever
  • Fatigue
  • Body aches
  • Headaches
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea

Typically the flu is treated with antiviral medication, vaccines, rest, plenty of fluids, and NOT antibiotics.  So with my medical background and my natural lifestyle, I’ve come up with a few natural remedies to help prevent and treat the flu. 

  • Vitamin C – helps boost the immune system. I suggest 1000mg daily as preventative measurement and up to 4000mg (1000mg 4x/day) when experiencing signs and symptoms.
  • Echinacea- is an anti-flammatory herb that helps your body fight of infections. I suggest 1000mg 3x/day upon first signs and symptoms.
  • Zinc- helps support the immune system. I suggest 50mg daily as preventative measurements and up to 100mg (50mg 2x/day) when experiencing signs and symptoms.
  • Elderberry- helps boost the immune system. I suggest 10ml daily upon first signs and symptoms.
  • Water- hydration is important in flushing viruses out of the body. I suggest a warm green tea, black tea, hot water with lemon, ginger, and honey
  • Bone Broth- chicken soup is an age old remedy for good reason. I suggest including plenty of garlic and onions in your bone broth.
  • Apple Cider Vinegar- helps to fight off the cold and flu. I suggest diluting apple cider vinegar with warm water and honey to break up the acidity.
  • Sleep- is important to reset the body. Not just during the flu but all year round.  Adequate and quality sleep is imperative to a health and balanced immune system.

 

*Disclaimer: Seek medical attention to young children, adults over 65 years old, immunocompromised individuals, or whom are pregnant, as the flu could be more severe and serious to these individuals.  While I do have a medical degree, I am not your healthcare provider, please consult with your primary medical doctor.