How to Get through Cold & Flu Season with Home Remedies

Who doesn’t love the seasonal changes? Fall weather, pumpkin patches, and the leaves changing colors is something many people look forward to. Unfortunately, with this change in temperature comes cold and flu season. Chances are people will tell you to try some herbal tea or over-the-counter medications. Below are some of the most tried and true home remedies that really do work.

Use a Humidifier

This statement may sound a little counterintuitive, but low relative humidity levels have been proven to increase the transfer of influenza. Cool, dry air disrupts the ambient immune barrier that protects against the Influenza virus. This is also why an influenza outbreak is more likely to happen in the winter. 

Humidifiers are a great way to artificially saturate the air and increase its relative humidity. It will also help alleviate some of the symptoms associated with common colds and clear out nasal congestion.

Black Peppers & Honey Tea

This remedy is more associated with relieving common cold symptoms, such as soothing a sore throat and suppressing coughs. Most symptoms associated with viral illnesses affect the nose and the throat, causing inflammation and severe discomfort. 

Honey and black pepper have anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial properties. Black pepper has vitamin C, which helps boost the body's natural immunity. On the other hand, honey is an excellent all-natural antibiotic that can kill harmful bacteria. You can try mixing honey with black pepper powder to achieve a more cough drop effect. 

Ginger & Garlic 

Ginger and garlic help to fight colds and their associated symptoms. Garlic helps boost immunity while ginger has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that soothe inflamed tissue.

Home remedies are great ways to seek natural relief from the common cold. Even though these remedies are an “old-school” way of treating illnesses, they are time-tested to help alleviate your symptoms.