Recently, It’s that time of year when everyone begins to experience stuffy noses and uncontrollable coughing. After two years of relative calm, experts are already forecasting that this year’s flu season will be a difficult one and are also reporting an increase in a number of other respiratory infections.
The best defense against influenza infection is getting vaccinated, and once you are sick, your only options are to treat your symptoms. Since viruses cause the flu, common cold, and the majority of other upper respiratory ailments, antibiotics, which are used to treat bacterial infections, cannot treat them.
However, various natural therapies have been used for years to treat cold and flu symptoms including a sore throat and congestion. These include cups of warm tea, bowls of soup, and spoonfuls of herbs. Over the years, scientists have undertaken study in an effort to measure the efficacy of some of these treatments, how frequently they should be used, and what formulations are most beneficial. However, the research result is either ineffective or of limited use.
Elderberry, a frequent ingredient in cold and flu syrups, especially those marketed to young children, has been shown in certain trials to reduce the length of disease symptoms when taken before or just after the illness begins. However, there is relatively little available information. Strong anti-oxidants and a substance called anthocyanins found in elderberries have been linked to improved immune function in tests in the lab.
Similar studies on zinc have found that consuming the trace element-containing syrups and lozenges every three to four hours may shorten the duration of a cold or the flu by one to two days, possibly by limiting the growth of viruses. There isn’t enough data, according to other evaluations, to say that it is any more effective than a placebo.
Another easy, risk-free tip for treating the flu or a cold in kids and adults is to keep your nasal passages moisturized. Use a humidifier in your room, prepare some herbal steam, or rinse your nose with warm salt water to achieve this. It has been known for thousands of years that Ayurvedic treatment used neti pots and nasal irrigation.
Nasal rinsing, which is similar to gargling with salt water, can help your body get rid of some viruses and mucus while lowering swelling that can lead to congestion. According to a 2019 study, this method could help shorten the length of an illness and possibly prevent the spread of viruses to other people. Choosing a flu treatment ultimately comes down to trial and error until you find anything that will make you feel better.
