Herbal medicine for cold and flu -
In practice, you might add a few drops of tea tree oil to liquid hand soap when you wash your hands or mixed into lotion you use. Some commercially made mouthwashes include it as an ingredient.
Other plant and herbal essential oils may also work as natural antibiotics and antivirals. These include:. Use essential oils only as directed. Do not ingest essential oils, many are toxic. You can add fresh and dried herbs and spices to food to get similar benefits.
Diffusing essential oils into the air with a diffuser may also help against some kinds of viruses and bacteria. Be aware that aromatherapy has an influence on children, pregnant and breastfeeding women, and pets. The flu virus survives longer in dry indoor air.
This may make the virus spread more easily. Colder, outdoor temperatures generally lower humidity in the air. Indoor air can get dry from heating and air conditioning use.
Using a humidifier to add humidity in your home and workplace might help reduce flu viruses in the air. Breathing in steam from a warm pot of water can help soothe your nose, sinuses, throat, and lungs.
Steam inhalation or steam therapy uses water vapor to help loosen mucous congestion. The warm moist air may also relieve swelling in the nose and lungs. Steam inhalation might help to soothe a dry cough, irritated nose, and chest tightness.
Avoid steam from boiling water. Be careful to test the temperature of the steam before breathing it in. Keep your face and hands far enough away to avoid scalding or burning yourself. Add a few drops of essential oils or a medicated vapor rub to the water for added antiviral and antioxidant benefits.
The stomach flu can give you nausea, cramps, and diarrhea. Bland foods are easier to digest and may help ease your stomach symptoms. The flu typically causes respiratory — nose, throat, and lung — symptoms. Top flu symptoms are:. The stomach flu is a flu virus that causes digestive symptoms.
You might have:. The flu can sometimes lead to health complications. It can trigger other viral and bacterial infections in the lungs, throat, ears, and other areas. If you have the flu, talk with a doctor if you also have a chronic health condition.
Your doctor may prescribe antiviral medications that help reduce symptoms and the length of the flu. These drugs work best when taken within two days of getting the flu.
Let your doctor know if you have a fever higher than Also, seek urgent medical attention if your symptoms do not improve after one to two weeks.
Viruses cause the flu and the common cold. Both kinds of infections can give you a fever. Cold and the flu viruses cause similar symptoms. The main differences between a flu and a cold are how bad the symptoms are and how long you have them for. Flu symptoms begin suddenly and are typically severe.
A flu can last for one to two weeks. Cold symptoms are typically milder. You might have a cold for a week or longer. Read more about the differences between flu and cold symptoms here. Get a yearly flu vaccination. Drink fluids and rest. Home remedies can help reduce symptoms so you can be more comfortable and rest more easily while you have the flu — and rest has a big impact on getting better faster.
Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. The common cold and strep throat have some common symptoms, but one is a viral infection and the other bacterial.
Treatment will be different for each. If you have a cold and want to run, a good rule of thumb is to consider the location of your symptoms. If your symptoms are located above your neck…. Pedialyte is an over-the-counter rehydration drink for both children and adults.
It's one of the most effective treatments for mild to moderate…. A Quiz for Teens Are You a Workaholic? How Well Do You Sleep? Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Medically reviewed by Debra Rose Wilson, Ph. Water and fluids Rest Warm broth Zinc Salt rinse Herbal tea Essential oils Humidifier Steam Bland food Flu symptoms Complications When to see a doctor Flu vs.
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Was this helpful? Drink water and fluids. Get plenty of rest. Drink warm broth. Up your zinc intake. Rinse with salt water. Drink herbal tea.
Apply essential oils. Menthol comes from many types of mint plant. It has antibacterial and pain-relieving effects and is an ingredient in many vapor rubs.
People can also add menthol to hot water for a steam inhalation. Although a study found that menthol inhalation helped reduce coughing due to environmental irritants, there is limited research on its effectiveness in clearing congested airways.
Other research found that vapor rub containing menthol, eucalyptus, and camphor significantly improved sleep in children and adults with cold symptoms. However, the researchers found that the risks could outweigh the benefits, as menthol can sting and irritate the skin. Research has found a link between vitamin D supplementation and a reduced frequency of colds in university students.
People living in colder climates may also find that a supplement boosts their vitamin D levels during the winter months, when their skin may not get much exposure to sunlight. Oregano contains thymol and carvacrol, which both have antibacterial effects. People traditionally use essential oils containing thymol to relieve headaches, diarrhea , and coughs.
Stress or poor sleep may increase the risk of getting a cold or the flu. One study suggests that lowering stress levels through mindfulness meditation practices or exercise reduces the risk of getting one of these illnesses. People who participated in a mindfulness meditation or exercise program lost fewer work days due to illness than people in the control group.
A small study in also found that people who slept for fewer hours were more susceptible to colds. Probiotics are live bacteria that support gut health and may help prevent people from getting colds or the flu.
Research has shown that probiotics can help protect the immune system against flu viruses. In a controlled trial , there were fewer instances of colds in people who were taking probiotics than in those who were not. People can purchase probiotic supplements in health food stores or online.
Probiotics are also present in many foods, including:. Ginseng may help reduce symptoms of cold or flu, although studies have provided mixed results on its effectiveness. Research on an herbal product containing North American ginseng found that it reduced the risk and duration of cold and flu symptoms in older adults.
People can consume raw ginseng or take it in the form of a capsule or herbal tea. Research has shown that elderberries can reduce symptoms of the flu and that a cranberry beverage could help support immune function. In some in vitro studies, berry extracts demonstrated the potential to help fight off influenza.
Strawberries, blueberries , blackberries, and raspberries are also good sources of vitamin C, which can help support the immune system.
Vitamin C is vital for keeping the immune system healthy. Many people believe that it may help reduce the frequency of colds.
Although there is no scientific evidence to show that taking vitamin C prevents colds or reduces symptoms during a cold, researchers have suggested that a regular intake of vitamin C could benefit some people in these ways.
They stated that while more research is necessary, the general safety and low cost of vitamin C mean that it is a low-risk method for people to test individually.
Citrus fruits and avocados contain high levels of vitamin C. People can also buy vitamin C supplements in pharmacies and online. A cold or flu virus can last for up to 2 weeks, with symptoms usually at their worst for about 2 or 3 days. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention CDC , people should see a doctor if their cold or flu symptoms last longer than 10 days with no signs of improvement.
If people have any unusual symptoms or their symptoms are very severe, they should contact their doctor. People who may have a higher risk of complications from the flu should contact their doctor when they initially have flu symptoms, as they may need antiviral treatment.
If an infant less than 3 months of age has a fever, a parent or caregiver should contact a doctor straight away. People may find that the above home remedies help relieve symptoms of a cold and make it pass more quickly.
People who notice that their symptoms are not improving after 10 days or have any unusual or severe symptoms should see their doctor. Certain home remedies and medications can help people get rid of the flu fast.
Learn about the steps to follow to treat the flu quickly and safely. A viral infection is responsible for the common cold.
While the effects can be unpleasant, people tend to recover within around 1 week. Medicines such…. The flu and common cold are both common, contagious illnesses. How long is a risk of spreading them present?
Read on to find out for how long you need…. Some people use essential oils to relieve symptoms of a cold or flu. However, they cannot cure the flu or any other virus, and there may be some risks.
There is no sure way to avoid the flu, but there are many ways to minimize exposure, build up immunity, and reduce the risk of infection.
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Medical News Today. Health Conditions Health Products Discover Tools Connect. How to treat a cold or flu at home. Medically reviewed by Gerhard Whitworth, R. Zinc Honey Echinacea Garlic Menthol Vitamin D Oregano oil Relaxation Probiotics Ginseng Berries Vitamin C Seeing a doctor Summary.
How we vet brands and products Medical News Today only shows you brands and products that we stand behind. Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we: Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence? Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices? We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.
From the first day of fall to anv ultimate thaw, there anc so much Herbak enjoy from September Herbal medicine for cold and flu March. Unfortunately, the Herbal medicine for cold and flu stretch of months that Organic green tea benefits Thanksgiving, New Year's Eve, and Valentine's Herbao has a dark side: cold and flu season. Don't let a nasty bug knock you out this year! And don't spend a fortune on over-the-counter drugs that can have some serious side effects. Instead, use these herbs to decongest, soothe a sore throat, and feel better. Note: Check with your doctor if you are pregnant or nursing before taking any herbal remedy. This article was originally published by our partners at RodaleWellness. Receive helpful health tips, health mdicine, recipes and more Hfrbal to your inbox. Herbal medicine for cold and flu natural cold and flu remedies really ans Barbara Austin, RN, MN, a nurse and complex case manager at Piedmont Sixty Plus, separates fact from fiction. Austin's number one recommendation for recovering quickly from a cold or flu virus is staying hydrated. She recommends 64 ounces of fluid a day, but talk to your doctor about your specific needs. Some people, such as those with congestive heart failureshould drink less water.Herbal medicine for cold and flu -
But research has turned up mixed results about zinc and colds. Some studies show that zinc lozenges or syrup reduce the length of a cold by about one day, especially when taken within 24 to 48 hours of the first signs and symptoms of a cold. Zinc also has potentially harmful side effects.
Talk to your doctor before considering the use of zinc to prevent or reduce the length of colds. Although usually minor, colds can make you feel miserable. It's tempting to try the latest remedy, but the best thing you can do is take care of yourself.
Rest, drink fluids and keep the air around you moist. Remember to wash your hands frequently. There is a problem with information submitted for this request. Sign up for free and stay up to date on research advancements, health tips, current health topics, and expertise on managing health.
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Show references Common cold. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Accessed Feb. Sexton DJ, et al. The common cold in adults: Treatment and prevention. Saper RJ. Clinical use of echinacea.
Pappas DE. The common cold in children: Management and prevention. Upper respiratory tract infection. Mayo Clinic; Natural Medicines. Drutz JE. Acute pharyngitis in children and adolescents: Symptomatic treatment.
AAP Committee on Infectious Diseases. Recommendations for prevention and control of influenza in children, Sullivan JE, et al. Clinical report — Fever and antipyretic use in children. Reaffirmed July Electronic Code of Federal Regulations. Adding Epsom salt and baking soda to the water may reduce body aches.
Can you treat a cold with a detox bath? Read more about habits that can help boost your immune system. Natural remedies that may help ease flu symptoms include honey, ginger, echinacea, elderberry, and probiotics.
There is currently no cure for the cold or flu. It usually passes in 3—7 days with rest and home or over-the-counter remedies. The cold can be caused by different viruses and, similarly to the flu, tends to run its course in a week or two.
Once symptoms disappear, you are in recovery and no longer contagious. How long each phase lasts depends on the specific illness. There is currently no way to cure a cold or the flu, but various dietary choices, supplements, and other home remedies may help relieve symptoms.
A small amount of evidence suggests some remedies may shorten the duration of the illness, but more research is needed. To reduce the risk of getting a cold or flu, take steps to strengthen your immune system, such as eating healthy, sleeping well, and exercising.
Having all recommended vaccinations is also an essential step. Our experts continually monitor the health and wellness space, and we update our articles when new information becomes available. VIEW ALL HISTORY. You can treat a cough with a number of over-the-counter OTC medications.
There are also natural remedies that may help ease your cough symptoms. Learn more about the ways you can treat a stuffy nose, or nasal congestion, at home, including tips on decongestants, humidifiers, and steam remedies.
Besides medication, there are several natural decongestants that can unclog stuffy nasal passages and help you breathe easier. Find out which remedies….
A flu shot is the single best way to avoid getting the flu. Find out which type of flu vaccine is best for you. Common cold viruses include rhinoviruses, adenoviruses, coronaviruses, human parainfluenza virus, and RSV. Learn about symptoms and duration. A cold typically resolves in about a week.
Around day 7, your symptoms will typically begin to fade and your energy levels will increase. Learn more. It may seem like colds are worse when you're pregnant because of the other discomforts you feel, but they are not generally worse.
A Quiz for Teens Are You a Workaholic? How Well Do You Sleep? Health Conditions Discover Plan Connect. Cold and Flu Home Remedies. Medically reviewed by Mia Armstrong, MD — By Joann Jovinally — Updated on February 2, Chicken soup Ginger Honey Garlic Echinacea Vitamin C Probiotics Salt water Nasal irrigation Ointments Essential oils Humidity Elderberry Warm bath Boost your immune system FAQ Summary There is no cure for a cold or the flu, but a bowl of chicken soup or a cup of hot ginger tea with honey can help manage the symptoms.
Chicken soup. Vitamin C. Salt water gargle. Saline nasal irrigation. Topical ointments. Essential oils. Warm baths. Boost your immune system. Need to make an appointment with a Piedmont physician? Save time, book online.
Close X. All Content Living Real Change Physician's Name News. Back to Living Real Change Sign up to receive the Living Real Change Newsletter. Sign up to receive the Living Real Change Newsletter First Name Last Name Email Address Birthdate. Zip Code. The best natural cold and flu remedies 1. Hydration Austin's number one recommendation for recovering quickly from a cold or flu virus is staying hydrated.
Vitamin C While vitamin C hasn't been proven to prevent cold symptoms, some studies have indicated it can shorten the lifespan of a cold. Sleep "It's so important to get plenty of rest during cold and flu season ," says Austin.
Honey and tea "I'm a honey fanatic," she says. Chicken soup Sometimes mom really does know best! Aromatherapy Break up mucus by rubbing a bit of camphor or menthol salve around — not in! A steamy shower A steamy shower or sauna is a great decongestant, says Austin. Sleep with an extra pillow To help your sinuses drain , sleep with an extra pillow under your head.
Natural cold remedies to use with caution Nasal irrigation "Nasal irrigation can be helpful in irrigating and hydrating nasal passages so they aren't dry and cracked, which can break the skin's protective barrier against viruses and bacteria," she says.
Herbal supplements and vitamins Some people swear by echinacea or zinc supplements, but research on their benefits is inconclusive. Related Stories.
There Herbal medicine for cold and flu no cure for a cold or Herbal medicine for cold and flu flu, but a bowl of anx soup colx a copd of Calorie intake control ginger tea with honey can help clod the symptoms. Some home medicinee — such as vitamin C — may xold reduce the length of time you are sick. Body achesfever, chills, and nasal congestion can make you feel miserable. Here, find out what cold and flu remedies you can try at home. There is no scientific proof that chicken soup can cure a cold or flu or speed up recovery, but its ingredients contain nutrients that support your immune system. There is also some evidence that the nutrients in chicken soup may slow the movement of neutrophils in your body.
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