Flu Virus Cures

When the flu hits, you need rest, plenty of clear fluids and easily digestible food. Taking herbs may lessen the severity of your flu and shorten the duration as well. Some of these herbs are better known than others. Try these remedies if you get the flu and begin to feel better sooner.

Rest

• One of the best remedies for influenza is sleep and rest. Once you have been hit with a bout of the flu, you will not want to do much more than stay in bed and sleep. To give your body a better chance of healing, drink plenty of fluids and take acetaminophen or ibuprofen while you are resting. Listen to your body and don't try to do too much. When you have recovered, you will have plenty of time to catch up on what you cannot do now.

Herbs

• Garlic is said to boost the immune system. You can buy garlic tablets which are coated to prevent stomach acid from neutralizing the beneficial effect of the garlic. As soon as you feel the onset of flue symptoms, eat a raw clove of garlic. (Cooking the garlic negates its antibiotic properties.)
  Echinacea is known to stimulate the immune system. If you get sick with the flu, take one or two capsules, or add a dropper full of tincture of echinacea to a glass of water and drink it four times a day. Do not take echinacea for more than eight consecutive weeks, or you run the risk of overstimulating your immune system.
  Linden flowers make a tea that will soothe your throat. Steep 1 or 2 teaspoons of dried linden flowers in a cup of hot water, strain and drink.
  Eucalyptus is a common ingredient in vapor rubs. Add four drops of eucalyptus oil to a bowl of steaming hot water. Put a towel over your head so it forms a hood and bend over the bowl so you can breathe in the steam. Breathe in through your nose and mouth to loosen mucus so you can blow your nose and cough. Eucalyptus will kill off some bacteria.
  Mullein is an herb that coats and soothes sore throats; it is also a mild expectorant. Pour boiling water over 3 to 4 teaspoons of crushed flowers, strain and drink.

Fluids and Soup

• It's not just a myth: Homemade chicken soup has healing properties that will help to open up your chest and consequently to feel better. Make sure you drink plenty of clear fluids, which will help you to avoid dehydration.