10 DIY Home Remedies for Preventing the Cold and Flu

Winter is approaching, which means that the cold and flu season is right around the corner. Luckily, there are many ways to increase your ability to fight a cold or flu. By using a selection of home remedies, you can keep yourself healthy, while preventing the cold or flu – or at least help alleviate the symptoms if you happen to come down with a cold or flu.

Here are the 10 best home remedies for fighting the cold and flu.

 Eat More Citrus Fruit

Vitamin C may not be able to prevent you from catching a cold, but it can help shorten the duration of your illness. Try to consume more citrus, such as oranges, limes, and lemons, to receive a healthy dose of vitamin C. The powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties of citrus fruit can help boost your immune system and keep your cold or flu from becoming severe.

Consume Raw Honey and Garlic

Garlic can help to prevent colds and flus or alleviate your cold or flu symptoms. A number of studies have shown that garlic can help reduce the duration of the common cold, while honey can help reduce coughing and sore throats. To make a simple honey and garlic drink, stir one tablespoon of honey in a cup of hot water and then add a teaspoon of minced garlic. Drink the beverage while it is still hot and breathe in some of the steam to relieve congestion.

Consume Fermented Cod Liver Oil

Cod liver oil can be purchased as a dietary supplement or found in fresh cod. This beneficial oil contains high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, helping to reduce inflammation. It also contains an abundance of vitamins A and D, providing an additional boost to your immune system.

Star Anise is a Super Spice

Star anise is a super spice that can ease congestion and eliminate sore throats. Star anise is commonly added to tea or pudding. Another simple solution is to combine one cup of crushed anise seeds with one cup of hot water. Sprinkle a small amount of raw honey and cinnamon into the mixture and drink.

 Drink More Tea

Tea is one of the most beneficial home remedies for a large variety of illnesses. Breathing in the steam from the tea can help to alleviate chest congestion and soothe your sore throat. If you choose green tea, you will also benefit from the inclusion of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil has a large amount of lauric acid, which is converted into compounds containing strong antimicrobial properties. This will increase the strength of your immune system and prevent illness. You can add a small amount of coconut oil to just about any meal or melt it into your tea. Some people consume coconut oil straight out of the jar, but it is just as easy to pour a small amount onto a salad or into a soup.

Liquid Chlorophyll

Chlorophyll contains a high alkaline content. When your system contains a higher alkaline content, your body will have an easier time killing bacteria and preventing the spread of viruses. To consume liquid chlorophyll, add a teaspoon of the substance to a glass of water.

Gargle to Alleviate a Sore Throat

If you are already sick, and you are dealing with a sore throat, gargle with a teaspoon of salt that has been dissolved in warm water. This will help to reduce the scratchy, tickle in your throat. Salt water is not your only option – you could gargle a small swig of apple cider vinegar. After gargling, spit the vinegar out into the sink. This will help tighten the membranes in your throat to alleviate any discomfort from a sore throat.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a powerful substance that can help to kill bacteria and prevent the spread of viruses. It contains a high-alkaline content, which will limit your chances of getting sick. Since you should not drink straight apple cider vinegar, you should add a small amount to a drink. Try adding one tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to a glass of lemon juice.

Make Your Own Turmeric Smoothie

Turmeric is a super spice that has been used in Indian culture for hundreds of years. It is believed to be useful for treating a wide variety of ailments, including arthritis pain and the common cold or flu. Turmeric contains powerful anti-inflammatory properties that can boost your body’s ability to fight your cold or flu, shortening the duration of your illness.

You do not need to try all ten of these home remedies, but you should consider trying one or two of them to cut down your chances of catching a cold or flu. Getting sick is one of the worst parts of winter, especially if you have children. By using a couple of these home remedies, you can enjoy the holidays without having to deal with sniffling, runny noses, and sore throats.

These simple home remedies can help you avoid the cold or flu this winter. Along with these remedies, there are a few additional steps that you can take to prevent getting sick. You should always wash your hands when you get home and after using a public restroom. If you have children, make sure that they wash their hands as soon as they get home from school.

You may also want to keep a small bottle of antibacterial hand wash in your purse or pocket – since you will not always have access to a sink. With a convenient bottle of hand wash, you can quickly sanitize your hands wherever you go.

Start using some of the home remedies provided to limit your chances of getting sick this cold and flu season. If you do happen to get sick, then these suggestions will help shorten the duration of your illness. Do not let the common cold or flu get you down this winter – be proactive and take steps to avoid getting sick and boost your immune system.