By Hope Imaka – EM TV Online
So you have the flu and no over-the-counter remedy to help with the symptoms. Rest assured there are natural ways in which you can ease the illness by practicing these 7 remedies.
1. Blow your nose – do it the right way
Rather than sniffling your mucus back into your head, it is important that you blow your nose regularly, and make sure you do it right. If you blow too hard, the increased pressure could cause an earache, and that wouldn’t be too helpful would it? To blow your nose, press a finger over one nostril and blow GENTLY to clear the other. Always wash your hands after you do so.
2. Stay rested
Staying rested assures your body focuses all its energy to the immune battle. This battle takes a toll on the body, so do it a little favour by laying down under a warm blanket.
3. Gargle
Gargling can bring temporary relief by moistening a sore throat. Excellent gargling solutions can include: a teaspoon of salt dissolved in warm water (four times daily); an astringent gargle (such as tea that contains tannin, to tighten up the membranes); or a thick viscous gargle made with honey or a mixture of honey and apple cider vinegar.
Note: Honey should never be given to children below the age of 1.
4. Drink hot liquids
Hot liquids relieve nasal congestion, help prevent dehydration and soothe the uncomfortable inflamed membranes.
5. Take a steamy shower
Just like drinking hot fluids would do for you, steamy showers moisturize your nasal passages and relax you. If you’re dizzy from the flu, run a steamy shower while you sit on a chair nearby and take a sponge bath.
6. Apply hot or cold packs around your congested sinuses
When it comes to temperature packs, it doesn’t matter whether it be hot or cold, both work equally as well. You can purchase reusable hot or cold packs at the drugs store, or you can make your own.
7. Sleep with an extra pillow under your head
This will help with the drainage of the nasal passage.
Serious conditions can masquerade as the common cold and a mild infection can evolve into something more serious. If you have severe symptoms or are feeling sicker with each passing day, see a doctor.
