A cold and the flu have similar symptoms, so it can be hard to tell which illness is giving you grief. However, a fever, achiness, and fatigue are more likely with the flu, whereas telltale symptoms of a cold include a cough and sore throat. Thankfully, regardless of which virus you have, there are many old time remedies that have been passed down from generation to generation to help shorten the duration of your illness:
1. Chicken soup
Chicken soup has long been considered a soothing and healing food, and it can help to thin mucus and make it easier to breathe. It is also packed with nutrients that can help the body fight off infection.
2. Honey
Honey has anti-inflammatory properties and can also help to ease coughing and sore throat. For best results, only use raw or unpasteurized honey.
3. Garlic
Garlic is another popular remedy for cold and flu. It contains a compound called allicin, which can help boost immune function. Garlic can also help to reduce congestion and ease a sore throat.
4. Turmeric
Turmeric is a spice that has been used for centuries in Indian and Chinese medicine. It is thought to have anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, making it ideal for treating colds and flu. To make this remedy, simply add a teaspoon of turmeric to a glass of warm milk and drink it before bed
5. Peppermint
Peppermint is another herb that has long been used to treat cold and flu symptoms. Peppermint can help to relieve a stuffy nose and also has antiviral properties.
6. Ginger
When it comes to old time remedies for cold and flu, ginger tea stands out as being particularly effective. To make the tea, simply simmer fresh ginger in water for 10 minutes. This tea can be sweetened with lemon juice if desired.
7. Bone broth
While there is no cure for cold and flu, bone broth soup can help to make the symptoms more bearable. To get the most benefit from bone broth, be sure to make it from scratch using fresh ingredients; store-bought soups may not contain the same concentration of beneficial ingredients and may actually do more harm than good, as they are packed with sodium, which exacerbates inflammatory symptoms. Simply save some chicken bones (you can save them from when you make chicken soup) and add to a pot with water, apple cider vinegar, and some salt. Bring to a boil and then simmer for 10-12 hours before straining and storing.
These are just a few of the many old time remedies for cold and flu. These remedies can help to ease symptoms and shorten the duration of the illness. However, it is important to see a doctor if your symptoms persist or if you develop a fever. These remedies should not be used in place of medical care.
