Food Remedies for the Flu

When pain, congestion and headache accompany the flu, the first order of business is to feel better. There are a number of food remedies that a flu patient can eat and drink that will relieve flu symptoms.

Chicken Soup

• Chicken soup may be the best food to consume while suffering with the flu. According to the Mayo Clinic, chicken soup will speed the mucus through the nose to help relieve congestion. Chicken soup acts as an anti-inflammatory by inhibiting the movement of certain immune system cells that participate in the body's inflammation response. Homemade soup may have an edge over some canned varieties.

Garlic

• Garlic is a powerful herb utilized by the ancient Egyptians. Garlic is found in many spicy foods. It has antibacterial and antiviral properties that aid the immune system in fighting infection. According to Organic Nutrition, Garlic contains allicin, a potent antibiotic. Garlic will also help to clear your nasal passages of mucus, thus allowing for enhanced breathing.

More Remedies

• Drinking hot soothing tea may ease the symptoms of the flu. Tea mixed with honey, lemon, sugar, and whiskey boiled in water will make a flu victim feel better. Aches and pains will disappear, and the patient will slip into a comfortable sleep.

  Onions also have healing properties. Slice a few onions and boil them in a pan of milk. Stir in oatmeal and a pinch of salt for a small, pungent meal. Eat in bed, to clear your head. The onions will help cure your hacking cough also.