How to Naturally Fight Flu

We are well into the dreaded Flu season; people are coughing, sneezing, completely man-down, or are trying to salvage what’s left of their immunity. The unwelcome visitor that is the Flu, has already visited many homes, playgrounds and workplaces and unfortunately, it is not done wreaking havoc. The flu virus lurks on door handles, innocent handshakes, hugs and most surfaces that we encounter. It thrives in cold conditions because that is where it is most stable, that is why it is most common in the winter months

If you feel like the flu is already at your doorstep, fear not because we have some quick and easy to make/find natural remedies for you to try keep the flu at bay. The nice thing is that you can either mix these together to make one concoction, or you can use them separately.

Cayenne Pepper:

Not only does cayenne pepper give your food an extra kick, it’s also great when it comes to kicking away some of those nasty flu symptoms. If you are struggling with blocked airways, fever, congestion and a persistent cough, then this cayenne pepper shot recipe is for you. It works even better when you are at the ‘nip in the bud’ stages of the flu.

All you need is: 

• A squeeze of half a lemon,

• 1/4 a teaspoon cayenne pepper,

• 1/2 a tablespoon of freshly chopped ginger,

• 1/2 a cup of boiling water.

Let the mixture sit for 5 minutes then drink it in one go as a anti-flu shooter, before bedtime.

Ginger:

A sore throat, congestion in your chest, and phlegm; these symptoms sound all too familiar with this time of the year. Here is how you can use ginger to get rid of one, two or all of these flu symptoms. Ginger is an anti-inflammatory and is packed with active ingredients, such as gingerol and shagelol, which have strong antimicrobial properties that help your body fight cold-causing viruses.

All you need is:

• 1/2 Teaspoon of freshly chopped ginger/ginger powder

• 1/2 Teaspoon of cayenne pepper

• 1/4 Cup of raw, unfiltered apple cider vinegar

• 1/4 Cup freshly squeezed lemon juice

Mix these in a small pot and bring to a boil. Cool the mixture, store in a cool dry place, then take 1 Tablespoon twice a day until your symptoms clear.

Honey:

A flu remedy ingredient that actually tastes deliciously sweet, yay! Shout out to the Bees for this one. Because of its natural ability to inhibit the growth of bacteria, honey can easily help alleviate most of your flu symptoms-such as a scratchy throat and an irritating cough. You can put a teaspoon of honey in a glass of warm water or use it as a gargle (add bit of salt and warm water). Another great flu fighting mix is a glass of warm water + honey + lemon and ginger and you’re good to go! You can also add honey into most of the other recipes to give them an additional boost and a better taste.

Turmeric:

Amongst other things, Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that prevent the reproduction of the flu virus in the body. It is also known to protect other cells from getting infected with the virus. Here’s a golden tea recipe that you can try to help relieve you of a scratchy throat and irritating dry cough. This tea also helps you sleep better when taken right before bedtime.

All you need is:

• Half a cup of warm water

• ½ a teaspoon of cinnamon

• ½ a teaspoon of turmeric powder

• 1 teaspoon of honey

We hope these tips help you get a jump on the flu this winter, and if your flu symptoms persist, please promptly seek the help of your doctor.

Hope you all stay warm, well, and wonderful this winter!