Elderberry Syrup
Elderberries have been used for centuries to shorten the flu and strengthen the body’s defenses, and they're easy to come by as well.
Chicken Soup
Grandma wasn’t wrong when she served this up - chicken soup helps hydrate and eases congestion. Admittedly it’s not for vegetarians or vegans, though.
Honey and Lemon Tea
It’s popular for a reason. This is a soothing mix that calms sore throats and stops that nasty coughing, while giving your immune system a boost with vitamin C.
Garlic
This ancient remedy works as a natural antibiotic and immune booster. It’ll make your breath smell, but it works! Plus it keeps away vampires, of course.
Steam Inhalation
Leaning over a bowl of hot water helps loosen mucus, clear sinuses, and soothe your inflamed parts. Be very careful not to burn yourself, though.
Eucalyptus Oil
A few drops of this stuff in hot water or a diffuser can open stuffy sinuses and clear chest congestion.
Peppermint Tea
Peppermint calms upset stomachs, reduces fever, and relaxes your poor congested airways. Everyone loves it, and they're right to.
Saltwater Gargle
It doesn’t taste nice, but saltwater gargles ease sore throats, reduce swelling, and kill bacteria hanging out in your mouth.
Onion Poultice
This is old-fashioned but still used every now and again. Placing warm onions on the chest was thought to draw out illness and ease congestion.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Influencers love apple cider vinegar... and for once those guys are actually right. It balances body pH and helps fight germs.
Hot Herbal Baths
Soaking in a bath with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or chamomile relaxes the body, opens sinuses, and promotes sweating out toxins.
Chamomile Tea
Chamomile tea is a gentle sleep aid that also soothes inflammation and eases aches. Many people swear by it.
Turmeric Milk
Golden milk - made with turmeric, honey, and warm milk - reduces inflammation and supports the immune system. It's another one beloved by wellness influencers!
Cinnamon Tea
Cinnamon tea improves circulation and fights bacteria. Plus, it’s warm comfort just when you need it most.
Clove Infusion
Cloves fight bacteria naturally with their strong antiseptic properties. It's thought they were used to fight the Black Plague, even!
Sage Tea
This old remedy is known for calming sore throats and soothing coughs. Ask your grandma about it!
Mustard Plaster
Used on the chest, mustard plasters stimulate circulation and help break up stubborn congestion.
Hydration
Make sure you drink a lot of water! This is something you should be doing regardless of whether you have the flu or not.
Horseradish
Some people love horseradish and some people hate it, but either way, it clears sinuses fast and stimulates circulation.
Elderflower Tea
Elderflower encourages sweating, so don’t wear a t-shirt you really like! But it will definitely help.
Ginger Tea
Ginger tea helps fight nausea, reduce inflammation, and open airways. For many people it's the first thing they reach for when they feel a tickle in the back of the throat.
Licorice Root Tea
This is one of the lesser known teas, but it reduces inflammation in the respiratory system. And many people think it tastes nice, too.
Oregano Oil
Oregano oil is underrated. It was often used in small doses to fight respiratory infections and flu symptoms, and it survives as a remedy in the present day.
Thyme Tea
This fragrant herb loosens mucus, calms coughs, and supports healthy lung function during colds and flu. And you might have some of it growing in your garden!
Warm Milk With Nutmeg
Nutmeg promotes rest and relaxation, while warm milk soothes the body and eases one of the hardest parts of flu, insomnia.
Black Pepper Tea
A spicy drink made with hot water and pepper helps clear nasal passages and stimulate circulation. It’s great if you’re already accustomed to spicy food.
Aloe Vera Juice
Hello, vera! Aloe juice can calm sore throats and hydrate when you’re sick.
Ginseng Tea
This was used for centuries in Asia and rightly gained a good reputation. Ginseng boosts energy and improves that all-important immune system.
Hot Foot Bath
Soaking feet in hot water draws blood circulation downward, relieving the pressure in your head. Plus, it’s so relaxing.
Pine Needle Tea
The Iroquois came up with this remedy way back in the day. Pine needle tea is a boost of vitamin C and it helps ease congestion.
Fermented Foods
If you like sauerkraut, kimchi, and kefir, good news! They are traditional immune-boosters, great for when you have the flu.
Sunshine and Fresh Air
Before modern medicine really existed, people swore by fresh air and natural light to speed recovery and fight off sickness. Being outside improves your mental health, as well.
Rest
The oldest remedy of all. Allowing your body to sleep and recover is crucial when fighting off the flu. Simply lie down in a quiet room and let nature take its course.
