Home Remedies for Cold & Flu

As peak cold and flu season hits this Winter, it’s not uncommon to find yourself at home feeling unwell. While there is no cure for a cold or flu, many of us have grown up with home remedies for the flu, often administered by our mothers, but how many of these remedies are actually likely to help relieve cold and flu symptoms?

Staying Hydrated is Key

Drinking enough clear fluids is essential to your recovery from a cold or the flu. Water helps to keep your nose, mouth, and throat moist. This helps your body get rid of built-up mucus and phlegm. It’s best to sip slowly and frequently, allowing your body a proper chance to absorb the water. Electrolyte drinks are not only good for hydration but also a great way to get essential minerals into your body when you have a cold or the flu.

Stay Home and Rest

It may seem obvious, but ensuring you give your body a chance to repair and recover from viruses is crucial. Sleep can help boost your immune system so make rest and sleep a priority so you can recover faster.

Drink a Hot Honey & Lemon Drink

It might just seem like an old wives’ tale but a soothing honey and lemon drink can help ease a cold. Lemon is naturally rich in vitamin C, with the skin high in bioflavonoids. Bioflavonoids have been used in alternative medicine as an antioxidant that can assist with inflammation, while honey is helpful for soothing a sore throat. While a small dose of honey can be effective, it’s important to remember that honey should not be given to children under the age of one.

Try a Warming Bone Broth

Bone broths are nutrient-dense and easy to digest, containing amino acids that can help support the immune system. They also contain glycine which is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, helping reduce inflammation and respiratory congestion. Bone broth also contains essential electrolytes, including potassium and magnesium, which can help relieve symptoms such as dehydration, headaches and fatigue.

Use Essential Oils

Some types of essential oils can help protect against certain viruses and bacteria. One study showed that tea tree oil significantly slowed viral replication when used within two hours of infection. Try adding a few drops tea tree oil into a hot bath.

Protect yourself with a Flu Vaccine

The best way to protect yourself from the flu and its associated complications is with an annual flu vaccine. Our Sage is associated with Our Medical centres which offer free flu vaccines for patients of all ages. Find your nearest medical centre here.

Need to Speak to a Doctor?

When you’re too sick to leave home but you need to speak to a GP, try Our Sage. Our Sage can connect you to a network of Australian-registered GPs from the comfort of your home. Use the Our Sage app to book a GP consult or via the link here.