Causes of the flu
Imagine a tiny, nearly invisible enemy, lurking in the air we breathe. When someone infected with the influenza virus sneezes or coughs, they release a cloud of virus-laden droplets. Breathe these in, or touch a surface they’ve settled on, and then your face and you’re the next victim. The influenza virus can evolve constantly and attacks mainly your respiratory system—nose, throat, and lungs. It’s like a burglar that changes disguises, making it hard for your immune system to keep up. That’s why we need a new flu vaccine each year, tailored to the predicted strains.Recognising the symptoms of the flu
Here’s what the flu feels like: imagine your body's thermostat is broken, causing fevers that soar over 38°C. Your muscles feel like you’ve run a marathon without training. You feel like you've been "hit by a truck". Add a persistent cough, a blocked or runny nose, and chills that make you shiver uncontrollably.10 natural home remedies to relieve flu symptoms
- Ginger tea: Try drinking a hot cup of ginger tea/drink to soothe your sniffles. Ginger’s anti-inflammatory effects, especially when paired with a squeeze of lemon and a drop of honey, make for a calming elixir that tackles a sore throat head-on.
- Chicken soup: The savoury broth from a hot bowl of chicken soup can nourish and comfort while helping to thin out stubborn mucous.
- Steam inhalation: A deep breath of warm steam is like a breath of fresh air. Adding eucalyptus oil creates a spa-like aroma that can help to break through the congestion. Drape a towel over your head and breathe in that soothing mist – just be careful not to burn yourself or children nearby with the hot water.
- Honey: Stirring honey into a warm beverage is more than a sweet treat and has natural antibacterial properties. This honey coats the throat, easing inflammation and irritation.
- Garlic: Garlic is an immune-boosting powerhouse. The key is chopping it up raw or giving it a light sauté to bring out allicin, its secret weapon against viruses.
- Peppermint tea: The menthol of peppermint is an effective congestion-buster, helping to open your nasal passages, while the cooling effect can soothe headaches and muscle aches.
- Warm compress: Applying gentle heat to relieve sinus pressure or a tension headache can be very effective. Wrap a warm compress around your temples to relieve the pressure.
- Elderberry syrup: Elderberries have long been hailed for their antioxidant properties, and the syrup can give your immune system a quick boost. A spoonful in the morning is like a natural flu-fighting tonic.
- Turmeric milk: Warm “golden milk” can provide immense comfort. Turmeric’s curcumin compound helps to fight inflammation and body aches.
- Hydration: Staying hydrated is a must when you have the flu. Herbal teas, broths, and plenty of water keep you flush with fluids to fend off dehydration and thin out all that mucus.