Natural Remedies for Swine Flu

With concerns about the swine flu, many are wondering what they should do if they do, in fact, contract the N1H1 virus. Even though there are anti-viral medications available with prescription, they are costly and can have significant side effects. Natural remedies for swine flu may help alleviate flu symptoms and even reduce the amount of time you’re under the weather.

Natural Anti-virals to Keep You Healthy

Apple cider vinegar is said to be a natural anti-viral and antibiotic to help fight off viruses and bacteria. One recipe to keep you healthy states to mix the following concoction for a warm pick-me-up each morning:

2T apple cider vinegar

1T honey

1 cup of warm water

Others point to garlic to not only ward off vampires, but to keep you healthy from a myriad of diseases and ailments. Garlic is said to help stimulate the immune system, as well as work as a natural antibiotic.

Ginger is said to help fight influenza viruses and fight infection.

Natural Remedies for swine flu

If you are not able to ward off the swine flu, consider the following to help lessen the symptoms and reduce the severity or length of the flu:

If garlic didn’t protect you from the virus, it may help you get over it faster.

Take a warm bath or shower to keep airways open or use moist, warm compresses.

Drink at least 8 cups of liquid a day—warm liquids are best. But forget caffeinated
coffee and teas. They can actually rob your body of water.

Add eucalyptus or fresh ginger to a steamer to help you breathe easier.

Use honey to soothe an irritated throat or gargle with warm salt or lemon water.

You may think eating chicken soup when you’re sick is just an old wives’ tale, but health benefits do exist for following Mom’s directions to eat a bowl of chicken soup.

Rinsing or spraying your nasal passages with mild salt water or over-the-counter saline solutions can help relieve congestion and remove bacteria.

If you can handle them, chili peppers and horseradish are both antioxidants that can work as a decongestant and expectorant.

You may not be able to find “bed rest” on the store shelf, but it is extremely important to get enough sleep to help your body fight off the virus and get better more quickly.