Flu or influenza has the same symptoms as that of the common cold but is the intensity of these symptoms is much higher than during a cold. Flu is spread by a virus, like the common cold, but it lasts for over 10 days unlike the cold.
The viruses attack the immune system directly making it weak and susceptible to more forms of infections. Therefore, it becomes very important to treat flu and its symptoms as soon as possible. Herbs have proven to be very beneficial in improving the symptoms of flu and for boosting the weakened immune system.
Best Herbal Remedies For Flu
Echinacea And Goldenseal
Herbal tonic or syrup that combines Echinacea and goldenseal is very effective in treating flu and its symptoms. When used in combination, the herbs have antiseptic as well as antimicrobial properties that can treat flu and strengthen the immune system.
They get rid of symptoms like runny nose, sore throat, dryness of mouth and fever to improve the sufferer’s condition. The herbal tonic is sold in many drug stores and should be consumed as per the directions on the bottle.
Boneset
Boneset is a perennial herb that is found growing in Europe as well as North America. It is also commonly called as ague-weed and fever wort. The herb is very effective in bringing down the thigh temperature of the body caused due to the attack of viruses.
All the parts of the plant, except for the root, are used in preparation of herbal medications. It treats flu symptoms like fever, running nose and chest congestion. Use dried boneset for treating flu since fresh boneset is toxic in nature. Brew tea using the dried herb and drink it 3-4 times daily to fasten your recovery.
Oregano Oil
Oregano oil or oreganol has antiviral properties that can be used for treating flu and its symptoms. Herbalists believe that the oil can also be used for preventing flu in people who live in extremely cold environments or who have a weak immune system. The herbal oil has anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic effect that is beneficial for treating irritation of the nasal passages as well as for treating frequent bouts of cough experienced during flu. Rub oregnaol on the chest and back several times a day to treat flu.
Elderberry
Elderberry has long been used in the treatment of skin infections and respiratory problems like asthma. The berries and flowers of the herb are used for preparing its herbal suppelemnts because they are highly medicinal in nature.
The herb soothes the irritated mucous membrane of the nasal passages thereby relieving inflammation, fever and congestion. To treat symptoms of flu use elderberry in the form of capsules, syrups, tinctures or lozenges.
Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus is widely used for treating symptoms of both flu and cold because of its anti-inflammatory and decongestant properties. One of the main symptoms of flu is congestion of the chest and nasal passages leading to difficulty in breathing especially at night.
Rubbing warm eucalyptus oil on the back and the chest will effectively break down the mucus thereby relieving the most painful of flu symptoms. Commercially available decongestants prepared using eucalyptus can also be used.