Influenza or flu is a very common infection of upper respiratory tract. It is a contagious viral infection affecting a large population. The organs affected by this condition are nose, throat, bronchi and lungs. The various symptom associated with this infectious condition are chills, fever, irritation in nose and throat, discomfort, heaviness in forehead, running nose, watery eyes, cough, fatigue and pain in muscles.
There are various medicinal herbs or food present in our kitchen that are useful in treating this condition. If taken in initial stage, then the complication of flu can be avoided. Here is given such six food items/spices that are helpful in combating flu or influenza.
- Ginger
Ginger is excellent remedy to combat flu. There are various ways to use it. You can prepare ginger tea and take that few times a day. You may crush ginger and extract its fresh juice. This juice (1 teaspoon) should be mixed with honey and taken 3-4 times a day. - Tulsi
Tulsi or basil leaves are well-known as effective herb against respiratory infection. You can prepare ginger-tulsi leaves decoction and take that few times a day. For preparing this decoction, boil leaves of tulsi 1 gram, and some ginger in 500 ml water till water reduces to 250 ml. Add honey and drink this hot kadha. - Onion
Onion should be taken in juice form. For extracting juice, peel onion’s outer layers and wash thoroughly under running water. Grate and squeeze by tying in thin cloth. In 1-2 tablespoon of juice add hone and drink. - Garlic
Garlic improves immunity of our body. Crushed garlic should be taken with honey in case of upper respiratory tract infection. - Turmeric
Haldi wala dudh is effective in flu. Add one teaspoon of haldi in a glass of lukewarm milk and drink twice a day. - Pippali
Pippali (Piper longum)/long pepper is a very useful remedy for flu. Mix 1/4 teaspoon of pippali podwer, 1/2 teaspoon of ginger juice and equal amount of honey. Take this mix 2-3 times a day.