Swine flu, which is caused by the H1N1 virus, is a fast-spreading pandemic. Many people are turning to natural remedies for its prevention and cure. These remedies have been found to be effective in treating the symptoms and preventing their spread.
Swine flu is a disease of the respiratory system, caused by the H1N1 virus or type A influenza virus, and has been declared as a pandemic by the World Health Organization. Initially, reported only in pigs, but as of recent, a considerable number of cases in humans, have been reported all over the world. The cases of this respiratory infection are rising on a daily basis, and this calls for different treatment options that are effective in relieving the symptoms.
It also calls for more awareness about its causes, symptoms, and treatments. Though the most popular treatment adopted by those suffering from is the use of allopathic medication, these drugs don’t really cure the condition. They merely control or reduce the symptoms. It must be noted that the symptoms tend to regress, if the condition is not fully cured. Some people consider the herbal remedies to be better treatment options, as these don’t give rise to the side effects that are generally caused by allopathic medicines.
Natural and Herbal Remedies
Homeopathy
Homeopathic medication proved very powerful, in the swine flu epidemic of 1918. Homeopathy is a natural form of treatment and evidently has no side effects. The medicines that have been effective for the treatment of this respiratory infection are gelsemium, bryonia, oscillococcinum, and eupatorium. Homeopathic medicines are derived from animal, plant, and natural sources. These medicines may require some time to show their effect and the symptoms may also aggravate during their use, but the disease gets completely cured and does not relapse, once the homeopathic course is completed.
Ayurveda
Ayurveda has the best form of herbal remedies for this condition. Ayurvedic medicines are made of pure natural substances and herbs that are very effective in the prevention of this respiratory infection. The medicines that are used to relieve symptoms contain herbs like neem (Indian lilac), elderberry, ginger and pepper extracts.
Once the symptoms are reduced, herbs such as triphala, echinacea, etc., can be taken to eliminate all the symptoms completely. Ayurveda boosts the immune system against the H1N1 virus. Echinacea is an important ayurvedic medicine used to treat all kinds of flu, and its use can also prove beneficial in the prevention of this infection. It works by treating infections and increasing the body’s resistance against pathogens.
Other Herbs
Other herbs that are useful in the treatment include adaptogens, olive leaves, oregano oil, and traditional Chinese medicinal herbs like eleutherococcus, shisandra, and codonopsis. Adaptogens are very effective antiviral herbs, that are resistant to biological and chemical stressors. Shishandra is used to treat viral flu, and codonopsis strengthens the immune system by increasing the white blood cell and the red blood cell counts.
Supplements
Consuming dietary and vitamin supplements like vitamin C, vitamin D, etc., and certain probiotics can be useful in the treatment and prevention. The supplements strengthen the immune system to fight against the viruses and organisms causing this flu.
Home Remedies
There are various home remedies that can be effective in relieving the symptoms.
- A mixture of 1 tbsp. of honey with ½ tbsp. cinnamon powder can be consumed. This will relieve symptoms like cold, nasal congestion, and sore throat.
- Steam inhalation with basil leaves added to the water, can also be helpful in relieving the symptoms of H1N1 flu and lung congestion.
- Chewing fresh garlic cloves is another effective home remedy, as garlic is a good antiviral resistance.
- Consuming lemon tea can relieve the symptoms like cough, sore throat, headaches, etc.
- Washing hands regularly and covering of the mouth and nose, while venturing out, is a necessary precautionary measure.
- Along with the treatment, consuming liquids and taking adequate rest and sleep is very essential.
Swine flu can be treated effectively using the aforementioned herbs and remedies, and is a healthier option compared to the treatment with allopathic medicines and antivirals.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.
