Gotta catch ‘em all is for Pokémon Go; it is not for flu and cold season. Here are 6 ways to minimize your flu and cold risk naturally this season!
With seasonal changes, you may be at risk of catching a cold or flu. Sometimes it is hard to avoid, but you can take precautions to help minimize your illness and get through it as quickly as possible. Along with increasing your Vitamin C intake you can minimize your cold and flu chances by taking additional supplements. Here are my top 6 ways to reduce your risks naturally.
Elderberry
Elderberries are an excellent antioxidant. They also contain anthocyanins which stimulate the immune system into producing cytokines which boost your immune system up. You can take elderberry as a supplement to help keep your immune system healthy. However, taken within 48 hours of feeling the onset of the cold and flu elderberry can help you feel better and reduce the amount of time you are feeling under the weather. Elderberry helps fight coughs, flu, colds and bacterial and viral infections; It also can help reduce your cholesterol and increase your heart health.
Garlic
An antioxidant that also contains vitamin B6, Vitamin C, enzymes, and minerals, garlic can boost the immune system and reduce inflammation due to the sulfuric enzyme alliin. When garlic is chopped and crushed, alliin turns into allicin, an antibacterial that is only active for a short time. Consuming two to three cloves of raw garlic throughout the day can keep the flu away. Studies have shown that consuming raw garlic is most beneficial to the flu but can aid in helping with a cold as well.
Echinacea
Echinacea is made up of stems, leaves, flowers, and roots of nine different types of flowering plants. Most common is the purple coneflower and the black-eyed Susan. Because of variety, the strengths of echinacea can vary during studies. However, studies have consistently show that echinacea does help boost immunity, and increase your white blood count which is responsible for fighting infection. Taken early during the onset of a cold, this may help reduce your symptoms.
Peppermint
A seasonal remedy for ailments. It contains antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antiviral properties. Peppermint contains menthol which can help relieve cold symptoms such as congestion, headache and aching muscles. Using a carrier oil, you can add a couple of drops of peppermint oil (1–2 drops essential oil per 1 tablespoon carrier oil) and rub onto temples, aching muscles and chest. This will relieve symptoms. Also, drinking peppermint tea can help ease digestive issues and relieve chest congestion. You can also add a few drops of essential peppermint oil into your shower and bath, or make a vapor bowl to breath in the benefits.
Washing Your Hands
Even though you may wash your hands after using the bathroom, make sure to wash your hands throughout the day as well. Your hands touch hundreds of things throughout the day that carries germs and bacteria. Make sure to keep your hands away from your face and use antibacterial soap and sanitizer when needed.
Exercise
Keeping your body strong and healthy helps fight off the cold and flu season. It can also help to minimize your recovery time.
Be mindful of your body and your symptoms. If you are running a fever, you may need additional prescription medicine to help you fight the flu. Be sure to let your physician know what supplemental alternatives you are taking as they might interfere with prescription medications. Stay fit, stay healthy!
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