3 Home Remedies to Get You Through Cold and Flu Season
With cold and flu season in full swing, no one is safe. If you’re one of the lucky few who have managed not to get sick this year, then you should be doing everything you can to keep healthy. But seeing as how the flu virus can survive on a hard surface for at least 48 hours, it can be difficult to completely avoid getting sick. Because so many people get sick each year, I’ve compiled a list of a few DIY home remedies that you can try out if you do find yourself sick.
Lemon, Ginger, and Honey Tea
For hundreds of years, honey, lemon, and ginger have been used in home remedies to treat a variety of ailments.
Honey has antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral natural properties.
Ginger is known for having natural properties that aid digestion and are effective against the human respiratory syncytial virus.
Lemon acts as an antiseptic and is also an excellent source of calcium, vitamin C, bioflavonoids, and magnesium, which is responsible for more than 300 enzyme processes in the human body.
When these three powerful ingredients are combined together, they can quickly alleviate many symptoms that come with the flu or a nasty cold.
Begin by slicing a lemon into quarters and pack the slices into a jar. Then grate as much ginger as you want and add to the lemon. Lastly, fill the jar with honey while continuously stirring.
To use this remedy, add at least one tablespoon to hot water and stir until mixed well. The finished product can be stored in the fridge for up to three months — which is plenty to get you through cold and flu season!
Elderberry Popsicles
While popsicles may be considered more of a summer treat, these treats work wonders when you’re not feeling well. Even better, the recipe can be tailored to how you’re feeling. So they can either be more bland and made for the purpose of hydration, or they can be made very dense in nutrients, almost like a smoothie. And with about 90% of households in the U.S. indulging in a sweet, frozen treat on a regular basis, who is going to complain about eating a popsicle?
Elderberries are known for their amazing immune boosting properties, especially against nasty viruses like the flu or a cold.
More bland version:
- 2 cups water
- 1/3 cup elderberry syrup
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- 1/4 teaspoon sea salt
- 2 tablespoons raw honey
Nutrient dense version:
- 1 1/2 cup blueberries
- 1/4 cup elderberry syrup
- 1/2 cup water
- 3 egg yolks
Simply blend all ingredients and freeze in a popsicle mold.
Decongestant Chest Rub
When it comes to being sick, there’s almost nothing worse than being congested. Not being able to breathe properly can make it hard to function or even sleep. And without sleep, an illness tends to last longer. Luckily, there are decongestant chest rubs to save the day.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons coconut oil
- 12 drops essential oils (eucalyptus, peppermint, rosemary, or lavender would all be good options)
All you have to do is combine the oil and your choice of oils in a jar or small container.
When you start to feel congested, simply rub some of this mixture on your chest or even underneath your nose. Doing this before going to sleep is a great way to ensure you get enough rest.
Hopefully, you make it through this season without getting sick. But if you do, try one of these remedies to help alleviate your symptoms and get back on your feet as quickly as possible.