Flu is perhaps one of the most common among diseases experienced by men. One may say that there is nobody in this world who never contracted this disease. Because man is a social being, some of the diseases that he comes down with are also social, or using the proper word, infectious or communicable. Flu is a respiratory illness caused by several influenza viruses. While some influenza virus are mild and can be remedied only by rest, increasing fluid intake and mild medications, some are deadly that it requires one to be hospitalized or be vaccinated to prevent getting infected. There are however certain types of herbs that are helpful in dealing with influenza viruses and in treating the symptoms that comes with the virus infection. Take note that these herbs are not used as a curative therapy but only to help in dealing with the symptoms. If the symptoms, however, persists, it is advisable to visit the health care provider immediately.

1. Echinacea

   Echinacea is perhaps the most well-known herb supplement in the US. Especially when one has the common cold and flu, several concoctions are added with Echinacea to help remedy the symptoms that are attached to the disease. Studies made by the University of Connecticut have shown that for those people who immediately took the herb when they have contracted the various symptoms of the disease, the severity of the disease is shortened. A certain research that was made consisting of 95 individuals revealed that when they drank cups of Echinacea regularly when they experienced sore throat, fever and runny nose, they experienced shorter sick days than those who did not drink any Echinacea concoction.

2. Elderberry

   In an article published by WebMD in 2003, preliminary studies revealed that the extract of a certain type of elderberry called Sambucol can shorten the duration of flu when the extract is taken as soon as the symptoms of the disease is known. In a small study conducted years ago, it showed that 93 percent of those who showed symptoms of flu became symptom-free just two days after the extract was taken. It is still uncertain how the herb affects the disease process and which type of influenza virus Sambucol is effective.

3. Ginger

   Some might have experienced being told by their mom to chew a piece of ginger root when experiencing runny nose or colds. This experience is definitely nasty, but there is wisdom behind this. In a study at Toyama Medical and Pharmaceutical University, ginger has shown to affect the activities of the macrophages of our immune system by increasing its production of cytokines. One of the cytokines produced is called TNF-α, an anti-influenza cytokine. When more ginger extract is taken, especially at the early onset of the disease, more TNF-α is produced that can help fight the influenza virus that invades the body.

4. Garlic

   Garlic is another popular fighter for colds and flu. The secret component of garlic that makes it a great relief against influenza virus infection is allicin. The characteristically strong odor of garlic is actually allicin and it is the one that provides its antioxidant properties. This allium vegetable has shown in the studies that it has strong antibacterial and antiviral benefits.

5. Goldenseal

   Several people have been using goldenseal as a remedy for colds and flu. According to studies, the action of goldenseal is towards the integrity of the mucus and sinus membrane. Through this action, the cells that produce the mucus is strengthened preventing over-production which results to runny nose and then clogged nose if there is inflammation. When goldenseal is combined with Echinacea, its effect in slowing down the symptoms and the severity of flu is enhanced.

6. Peppermint

   The main active component of peppermint called menthol and peppermint itself is being used as a decongestant for those suffering from cold or flu viruses. Menthol can help in thinning the mucus. When there is thinning of mucus, it is easier to expectorate, therefore decreasing the severity of the symptoms of the disease.

7. Sage

   For many centuries, sage has been used as remedy for some illnesses. For colds and flu, sage is being used as remedy for the sore throat. When one has flu, the integrity of the mucus membrane is damaged due to the inflammation. The membrane inflammation causes sore throat. By gargling a solution of water, salt and sage leaves, sore throat is expected to lessen.

8. Fenugreek

   Fenugreek is one of the oldest known medicinal plants; in fact, it is said to have been used by Hippocrates, the father of medicine. Fenugreek is a very good decongestant by dissolving and thinning the increasing amount of mucus that resulted from the course of the disease. Mucus is also has benefits to sore throat by using it as a gargle.

9. Lemon Balm

   While flu is a respiratory disease, it also has an effect on the muscles through increased pains and aches. Lemon balm is helpful as a relaxant and as an antispasmodic medication. When there are muscle spasms, applying the lemon balm ointment can help in the relaxation of the muscles. Flu, in contrast to common colds, has fever. With the lemon balm, there will be increased sweating. Sweating is important, although it is recommended to not to go into the extent of dehydrating oneself, because sweating can remove the body of toxins. Lemon balm may be applied at the early onset of flu.

10. Cinnamon

    It is said that there are verses in the Christian bible saying that chewing on cinnamon sticks can help get rid of the virus from the body. Influenza virus therefore is not exempted from these rules. Indeed in modern times, cinnamon bark has shown to stimulate the blood circulation of the body. It is widely being used as a medication for several muscle aches and pains which are associated with common colds and flu. During 1918 when there was an outbreak of Spanish flu, those who are working at the cinnamon processing plant did not contract the disease. This can be one indication that cinnamon is helpful in preventing the development of flu.

Sources
naturalnews.com
organicnutrition.co.uk