Influenza is an acute viral infection of the respiratory tract caused by the influenza virus. It is spread primarily through droplets of saliva from sneezing, coughing, or close contact. The main causes of influenza include a weakened immune system, seasonal changes, and exposure to infected people. Influenza virus types are classified into three broad categories: **influenza A**, **influenza B**, and **influenza C**. Type A is the most common and causes seasonal epidemics and pandemics, while type B causes more localized epidemics. Type C is less common and causes milder symptoms. Influenza symptoms include fever, chills, muscle aches, sore throat, and fatigue. Although it can resolve spontaneously in healthy people, it can cause serious complications in at-risk populations, such as the elderly, children, and people with compromised immune systems.
Here are 7 traditional, natural and homemade recipes to relieve flu symptoms:
1. **Ginger and lemon infusion**
- **Ingredients**: 1 fresh ginger root, 1 lemon, 1 tablespoon of honey, 1 cup of hot water.
- **Preparation**: Boil the water, add slices of fresh ginger and let it infuse for 10 minutes. Add the juice of a lemon and a tablespoon of honey to sweeten. This drink is known for its anti-inflammatory and antiviral action.
2. **Thyme herbal tea**
- **Ingredients**: 1 tablespoon of dried thyme, 1 cup of water, honey.
- **Preparation**: Infuse the thyme in hot water for 10 minutes. Filter and add honey to soften. Thyme has antiseptic properties and helps relieve coughs and sore throats.
3. **Garlic and onion soup**
- **Ingredients**: 4 cloves of garlic, 1 onion, 1 liter of water, herbs (thyme, bay leaf), salt and pepper.
- **Preparation**: Chop the garlic and onion, then lightly brown them in olive oil. Add water and herbs, then simmer for 20 minutes. This soup helps strengthen the immune system thanks to garlic and onion, known for their antibacterial properties.
4. **Honey and spiced grog**
- **Ingredients**: 1 cup of hot water, 1 tablespoon of honey, 1 cinnamon stick, 1 clove, a little lemon juice.
- **Preparation**: Mix all the ingredients in hot water and let it infuse for 5 minutes. This hot toddy is great for soothing sore throats and relieving congestion.
5. **Apple cider vinegar and honey**
- **Ingredients**: 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar, 1 tablespoon of honey, 1 cup of warm water.
- **Preparation**: Mix the ingredients and drink 2 to 3 times a day. Apple cider vinegar helps balance the body's pH and has antiviral properties.
6. **Golden milk with turmeric**
- **Ingredients**: 1 cup of milk (or plant milk), 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder, a pinch of black pepper, honey.
- **Preparation**: Heat the milk, add the turmeric and black pepper. Mix well and simmer for a few minutes. Add honey to sweeten. Turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory that helps fight infection.
7. **Eucalyptus infusion for inhalation**
- **Ingredients**: 10 eucalyptus leaves or a few drops of eucalyptus essential oil, 1 liter of water.
- **Preparation**: Boil the water, then add the eucalyptus leaves. Place your face over the bowl, cover your head with a towel and inhale the vapors for 10 minutes. This helps to clear the airways.
These remedies can alleviate flu symptoms, but remember to consult a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.