How to Naturally Fight the Flu Affordably

With flu season in high gear, it’s safe to say that most people are looking for a way to fight the flu without spending a small fortune on flu remedies. Over-the-counter treatments may help relive some of the symptoms associated with the flu once you have it. Stocking up on these remedies, however, can quickly drain your wallet. Another option to fighting the flu is to rely on a few natural approaches that can get you feeling better sooner without stretching your budget.

Blow Your Nose the Right Way

Blowing your nose isn’t rocket science, but there is no reason to throw your back out trying to clear your nose. Blowing too hard may even cause an earache. Gently press a finger over one nostril and softly blow to clear the other one. Putting too much force into each blow can also cause irritation and inflammation that can make blowing your nose painful.

Get Plenty of Rest

You are not going to get over the flu any faster by trying to be a trooper and maintain your regular schedule. In fact, you could actually spread more than love around by doing this. Treat yourself to some well-deserved rest and let your body build up its natural immunity. A well-rested body has a better shot a fighting the flu than one that is tired.

Eat Oranges

This is one you can do when you either first get the flu or when someone around you has the flu and you’re trying to keep from getting it. Vitamin C is just what the doctor ordered when it comes to fighting the flu. Drink plenty of orange juice and nibble on some orange slices and you’ll build up your supply of vitamin C and stand a much better chance of fending off the flu.

Gargle

One of the most common flu symptoms is a sore throat. Gargling with a teaspoon of salt dissolved in warm water can moisten your throat and offer some temporary relief. Gargle about three or four times a day until you are over the flu. Add some tea with tannin to get rid of that “tickle” in your throat. Honey and apple cider vinegar are time-tested remedies that can also help. Another gargle solution that works is a mixture of two cups of hot water with a teaspoon of honey and lemon juice. Just let it cool to room temperature first.

Drink Hot Liquids

Most hot liquids – including tea and hot chocolate – can help relieve nasal congestion and prevent dehydration. Just make sure that any hot liquid you drink isn’t too hot. A hot cup of coffee can also do the trick, but tea with honey is more soothing.

Take a Hot Shower

A hot, steamy shower is a great way to relax you and clear your nasal passages at the same time. It’s like stepping inside of a vaporizer. If you don’t have the energy to stand in the shower for any length of time, just run a hot shower and sit on a chair nearby. The hot steam will still clear your nasal passages.

Hot and Cold Packs

Hot or cold packs can make you feel more comfortable while recovering from the flu. It doesn’t matter which temperature you choose. You can buy an inexpensive heat pad or cold pack or make your own. A heating pad can also work. Just make sure you don’t turn the temperature up too high. A damp washcloth can also do the trick. If you want a warm washcloth, just heat it up in the microwave for a minute.

Use Extra Pillows

Creating a slight slope allows your nasal passages to drain while you sleep. If you are really stuffed up, increase the angle or place a vaporizer next to your bed as you sleep. If the pillows make it uncomfortable for you, place a pillow between your top mattress and box spring.

Once you have the flu, the only thing you can do is treat the symptoms. The sooner you start getting some rest and using a few of these remedies, the faster your body will build up the energy required to fight the flu. Some strains of the flu can be especially serious or may turn into more serious conditions. If you are getting worse instead of better after a few days, see a doctor or seek emergency treatment.

 

Author Bio

Ron Thompson writes for Del-Immune, a company that creates a unique probiotic supplement made from the lactobacillus rhamnosus which is a natural immune system booster and how to fight the flu naturally with Del Immune V.

 

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