It is all over the news, the papers, social media, you name it. The flu is horrible this year. Not only is it a particularly potent strand that is going around, but it seems like everyone and their brother has it. Everywhere you turn, someone is coughing, sneezing, or sniffling. Stomach bugs are rampant. You know how in Game of Thrones they keep warning that “winter is coming?” Well, bad news ladies and gentlemen… winter is here… and it is full of germs.
While it is easy to feel helpless during the winter months, there are certain natural remedies and precautions you can use to help boost you and your family’s immunity. These remedies are most effective when started at the first sign of illness. Read on for 10 natural remedies to help combat the cold and flu this season!
10 Natural Remedies to Combat the Cold and Flu
1. Echinacea
Echinacea is an herb that has been used for centuries to help battle colds and the flu. It also helps boost the body’s immune system. In fact, research shows that this herb can reduce your chances of catching a cold by 58 percent! It also reduces the length of the common cold. Purchase this herb in pill form, or drink it as a tea, just don’t overdo it!
2. Vitamin C
Vitamin C is known for its immune boosting properties that help ward off and fight the flu and common colds. Immune system cells accumulate vitamin C to help fight infections and viruses. When the cells lack vitamin C, they are unable to fight off these germs as well.
3. Elderberry
Research shows that elderberries have the power to shorten the duration of a cold or flu. Elderberries have proven to be effective against 10 strains of the flue, while also shortening its symptoms. Elderberry syrup is a common way to work elderberries into your system. Local health food stores usually carry this powerful syrup.
4. Zinc
Zinc is a nutrient that does an excellent job of protecting the human body from pathogens. Many studies have found that people with even a mild zinc deficiency can suffer from suppressed immune systems. In order to give your immune system and extra boost from zinc, try and consume foods rich in this mineral. Pumpkin seeds, wild-caught fish, and oysters all make excellent sources of zinc!
5. Probiotics
Your stomach is full of billions of bacteria that help keep your body healthy. These good bacteria fight off the bad bacteria that cold and flu season often exposes us to. One research study found that people who took daily probiotics had faster recovery times and less harsh colds that those who didn’t. Look for a high-quality probiotic supplement with at least 2 million CFUs.
6. Vitamin D
Sometimes the best thing you can do to treat a cold or the flu is to get some good ole fashioned vitamin D. Unfortunately, the winter months where most of us fall ill aren’t known for their rays of sunshine. Should the sun peak out and shine brightly one day, bundle up and go for a walk and let the vitamin D boost your immune system. Aim for at least 15 minutes in direct sunlight each day. When the sun isn’t cooperating, you can take a vitamin D supplement to help boost your body’s immune system.
7. Raw Honey
Raw honey has been used for centuries as a natural treatment option for the flu and common cold. Honey has proven to be effective at destroying several bacterial strains, while also giving the body an added immunity boost. If you start to feel a cold coming on, take a tablespoon of raw honey with breakfast and dinner. Remember, it needs to be raw honey — even better if it is locally sourced!
8. Garlic
Garlic is a powerful herb that is known for its strong taste and medicinal uses. One of the main components in garlic is allicin. Allicin inhibits a large number of bacteria from spreading. It has also been used to treat fungal infections. For those who aren’t afraid of the taste of garlic, try and eat plenty of raw garlic when you feel the cold or flu setting in. If you cannot stand the taste of garlic, it is available in a supplemental form!
9. Hot Water with Lemon
Sometimes nothing feels better than sipping on a warm mug of warm water and lemon when trying to combat a cold or flu. Scientific research shows that sipping on a hot drink improves the flow of mucous (the fancy word for snot), and helps it clear out of your system. The lemon provides some tasty flavor, as well as a nice boost of Vitamin C.
10. Licorice Root
Licorice root has been used for thousands of years for its medicinal purposes. It has strong antiviral, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and even anti-tumor properties. Scientific research has found that the triterpenoids in licorice are responsible for its antiviral properties. These special compounds also help stop viruses from attacking the body.
Chiropractic Can Help
Did you know that chiropractic care is also linked to boosting the body’s immune system? Dr. Hinz and his staff at Cool Springs Chiropractic can walk you through just how chiropractic care improves overall health and wellness. Schedule your consultation and appointment today!
3252 Aspen Grove Drive
Suite 13 Franklin, TN 37067
Phone: 615.503.9900
Email: info@coolspringsfamilychiropractic.com