Fight Off Flu Symptoms With Herbal Supplements

There is a tickle in your throat, your back is a little achy and your head feels like it’s in a vice. It sounds like the flu is paying you a visit. Even if you go to the doctor, the best he’s going to do for you is tell you to drink a lot of water and take some ibuprofen or aspirin for the fever and the aches.

Other than that, you just have to ride it out. There are some all-natural ways to help stave off the flu and help with some of the symptoms in herbal supplements. Here are some common supplements you can take to help you feel better during cold and flu season:

Echinacea- This is a very popular herb taken in capsule or in tea form to ward off cold and flu symptoms. It has anti-bacterial properties, boosts a chemical in the body that regulates the immune system’s defense. It also cleanses the blood and helps fight infection by acting as a catalyst for white blood cells.

Ginger- This fragrant herb has many antiviral properties and aids in relieving sore throats and inflamed mucus membranes. It also prevents the growth of bacteria and fights the effects of free radicals on cells. It can be taken in capsule form or as a tea and is wonderful to cook with. Ginger is also good for settling the stomach if nausea accompanies the flu symptoms. It also has relaxing properties to help you sleep.

Garlic- Ah, one of the most fragrant herbs around. Not only does it ward off vampires, but it also fights off bacteria. Its natural antibiotic properties make it a great way to stave off infections. Used for thousands of years, it is known for its immune boosting abilities and, despite its odorous personality, is very popular as an herbal supplement as well as a food additive.

Peppermint- Anything minty opens up the sinus cavities for easier breathing and breathing in some peppermint is no different. It also breaks up the mucus, allowing is to be discharged as well as cools the throat and nasal passages. It also attacks fevers by helping the body cool down.

Licorice- Licorice is another herbal supplement that can help fight the effects of cold and flu season. It is a known expectorant and also fights viral infections. Taken as a hot tea or a capsule, licorice boosts the body’s ability to fight any upper respiratory condition as well as digestive problems as it is also a laxative.

Of course there are many other natural remedies to fight off flu and cold symptoms, but these are the most common. Even though these are all natural herbal supplements, they can still react to other medications you are currently taking.

Check with the pharmacist before you buy to see if there are any drug interactions and what the side effects may be. Most of them work best if you take them as soon as you feel the first twinges of the flu coming on and some can be taken together for maximum fighting power. Whether in tea or capsule form, herbal supplements are a great natural defense to cold and flu season