Flu home remedies

Winter is here, and so is the flu season. In a time of increasing sickness, we have compiled some home remedies to help ease flu symptoms.

The most well-known remedy is to drink plenty of fluids. Water, juice, soup, broth, and herbal tea all help to keep away dehydration.

Broth and herbal tea also soothe the throat and sinuses. Herbal tea can become antiviral by adding honey, turmeric, ginger, or cloves.

Increasing zinc intake helps the body make more white blood cells. Foods high in zinc include red meat, shellfish, beans, seeds, nuts, and eggs.

Essential oils, such as tea tree oil, can help block or slow down the virus from spreading. Adding a few drops to liquid hand soap or a lotion could help prevent catching the flu at all.

The flu survives longer in dry air, so using a humidifier can prevent the virus from spreading.

With the stomach flu, it is best to eat a bland diet such as the BRAT diet (bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast), crackers, cooked cereals, or boiled potatoes or chicken.

Avoid irritating foods such as dairy products, caffeine, and spicy, fatty, or fried food.

The best way to ease flu symptoms, however, is to not get the flu at all. Wash your hands with that tea tree soap and don’t cough or sneeze into the air!