What is the Flu?
The flu, also known as influenza, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. It affects the nose, throat, and lungs, and can range from mild to severe.
Symptoms of the Flu
These symptoms are not the conclusive test for FLU
- Fever
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Muscle or body aches
- Diarrhea and vomiting (more common in children)
Types of Flu Viruses
The main types of Flu viruses are
- Influenza A (H1N1 and H3N2)
- Influenza B
- Influenza C (mild and rare)
How the Flu Spreads
There are three different ways through which Flu can be spread
- Through the air when an infected person talks, coughs, or sneezes
- By touching a surface or object contaminated with the virus and then touching one's mouth, nose, or eyes
- By close contact with an infected person
Getting Prevention
- Get vaccinated annually
- Practice good hygiene (wash hands frequently, cover mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing)
- Avoid close contact with infected individuals
- Stay home when sick
- Keep surfaces and objects clean and disinfected
Available Treatment
- Antiviral medications (oseltamivir, zanamivir, peramivir)
- Rest and hydration
- Over-the-counter medications (pain relievers, decongestants, antihistamines)
Complications
According to the research there could be complications when having Flu, these include:
- Pneumonia
- Bronchitis
- Sinus and ear infections
- Worsening of underlying health conditions (heart disease, diabetes, lung disease)
Who is at High Risk?
- Children under 5 years old
- Adults 65 years and older
- Pregnant women
- People with certain chronic health conditions
- Healthcare workers
HERBS TO BE USED IN TREATING FLU
1. Echinacea: Boosts immune system and reduces severity of flu symptoms.
2. Elderberry: Antiviral properties help combat flu virus and reduce symptoms.
3. Ginger: Anti-inflammatory properties help soothe sore throats and calm nausea.
4. Peppermint: Eases congestion and coughs.
5. Slippery Elm: Soothes digestive issues and supports immune function.
6. Yarrow: Antimicrobial properties help combat fever and infections.
7. Garlic: Natural antibacterial and antiviral properties aid in fighting off flu virus.
8. Eucalyptus: Decongestant properties help relieve respiratory issues.
9. Goldenseal: Antimicrobial properties help combat infections.
10. Marshmallow Root: Soothes sore throats and calms coughs.
11. Andrographis: Antiviral properties help combat flu virus and reduce symptoms.
12. Ashwagandha: Boosts immune system and reduces stress.
13. Boneset: Anti-inflammatory properties help soothe body aches and reduce fever.
14. Eucalyptus Oil: Decongestant properties help relieve respiratory issues.
15. Fenugreek: Expectorant properties help relieve coughs and congestion.
16. Licorice Root: Anti-inflammatory properties help soothe sore throats and calm coughs.
17. Mullein: Expectorant properties help relieve coughs and congestion.
18. Sage: Antimicrobial properties help combat infections.
19. St. John's Wort: Antiviral properties help combat flu virus.
20. Thyme: Antimicrobial properties help combat infections.
Remember to:
👉Use high-quality, standardized herbal extracts or supplements.
👉Follow recommended dosages and preparation.
Also, consider combining herbal remedies with other natural methods to boost your immune system, such as:
- Getting plenty of rest
- Staying hydrated
- Practicing good hygiene
- Eating a balanced diet
- Exercising regularly
- Managing stress
METHODS OF USING HERBS IN TREATING FLU
1. TEA
Steep herbs like peppermint, ginger, or elderberry in hot water to make a soothing tea.
2. INFUSION
Steep herbs like echinacea or yarrow in hot water to make an infusion.
3. TINCTURE
Take herbal tinctures like echinacea or elderberry sublingually (under the tongue) or add to water.
4. CAPSULE
Take herbal capsules like garlic or ginger orally.
5. TOPICAL APPLICATION
Apply herbal oils like eucalyptus or peppermint to the skin or chest.
6. INHALATION
Inhale herbal vapors like eucalyptus or menthol to ease congestion.
7. BATH
Add herbal essential oils like ginger or eucalyptus to bath water for relaxation.
8. SOUP
Add herbs like garlic, ginger, or onions to soups for added nutrition.
9. SALVE
Apply herbal salves like comfrey or calendula to soothe sore throats or skin.
10. STEAM INHALATION
Inhale herbal steam like eucalyptus or thyme to ease congestion.
Remember to:
Be patient and consistent when using herbal remedies.