Peace
Winter season is in full effect, and if you still work in an office or are around a lot of people in an enclosed space, you probably will come in contact with various germs that can get you sick. Full disclosure, I am not a health professional, and if you are sick for longer than a few days, definitely go see your doctor.
Since I eat pretty clean, I have to admit, I haven’t had much more than a cold in a few years. When I do get sick, I tend to lean more towards natural remedies. Living in another country opened my eyes to how much doctor prescribe anti biotics for such mild illness symptoms. According to the CDC, 1 in 3 antiobiotics prescribed are unnecessary. This concerned me after getting a antibiotic resistant bacteria, that took months to get over. For more, natural is mostly the way to go for day colds are small sicknesses.
Natural Cold & Flu Remedies
Sleep
Making sure you get a good night’s sleep is so important to let your body heal and to defend against bateria and viruses.
Drink Water
Drinking enough water ( I try to drink a gallon a day) can help your body flush our any germs you may have gotten. I know when I might feel something coming, I up my water intake, just in case.
A Hot Steamy Shower
If you are feeling congested, taking a hot shower can help you breathe.
Essential Oils
Sitting at my desk. I found using a diffuser when someone is sick around me. Some essential oils for cold/flu season are:
- Oregano – Antiviral and antibacterial
- Thyme – Antiseptic properties
- Eucalyptus – Antiseptic and antibacterial
- Lime- Antiseptic antibacterial & antiviral
- Frankincense – coughing
- Peppermint – Aids digestion
- Hyssop – Helps with respiratory infections
- Lemon – Antibacterial & disinfectant
- Clove – Anti-inflammatory, analgesic & antibacterial
- Ginger – Aids digestion.
Salt Water Gargle
Use this if you are having a sore throat. I dissolve 1/2 teaspoon of sea salt in a cup of hot water.
Juice Shots
Take a shot of ginger, horseradish, garlic, or carrot juice to help disappate a cold. I found this great book that details which vegetables to juice for every ailment by Norman Walker. I love this book, check it out if you are interested.
Honey
Honey can help your sore throat, and suppress your cough. You can put it in your herbal tea, and add some fresh lemons.
Epsom Salt Bath
Take a warm bath, with some essential oils from above, and add some epsom salt. Toxins are released when you add the minerals to your bath.
Increase Vitamin C & D
Normally found in fruits and veggies vitamin C helps boost your immunity. There are so many studies out there to find more information. I normally go to Sunlight or supplements for my vitamin D needs.
These are just a handful of remedies, but feel free to try them. What natural cold and flu remedies do you use at home?
