Flu can be caused by several environmental or lifestyle factors. While some of its symptoms, such as coughing and sneezing, help expel phlegm and other irritants from the system, it tends to be a painful and unpleasant experience. Flus normally subside by themselves in 7-10 days, but the foods and home remedies given below can help hasten the recovery process. It is advisable to follow these tips regularly for visible and effective results.

Foods for flu relief

Soups and broths
Foods like soups and broths can help decongest the nose and sinuses and provide flu relief by thinning the mucus. They also help in reducing inflammation, which can further provide relief from the symptoms.

Chamomile tea
This beverage can help fight the viral infection that has caused flu by boosting immunity, and it provides relief from congestion by thinning the mucus.

Garlic and turmeric
Consuming turmeric and garlic when suffering from flu can also boost immunity and help effectively manage flu symptoms, as both these common ingredients are known for their anti-inflammatory properties.

Home remedies for flu symptoms

Saltwater gargles
It is one of the primary home remedies for flu relief. Gargling with lukewarm saltwater can help in treating upper respiratory infections. It also loosens the phlegm and mucus that contain virus, bacteria, and other pathogens and allergens settled in the throat and lungs. The saline water additionally helps in easing soothe throat pain and nasal congestion. Swish the solution around your mouth and throat for approximately half a minute before spitting it out. Repeat this process till the water is finished.

Hot shower
If the patient is suffering from mild fever due to flu, a warm sponge or a hot shower can reduce the symptoms of the same. Doctors or healthcare professionals recommend adding baking soda, Epsom salt, and essential oils to the bath to help reduce body aches and other symptoms related cold and flu.

Saline nasal spray
This home remedy helps in treating flu by thinning the mucus in the nasal passages. Nasal sprays can be made at home using water and salt or can be bought from the nearest pharmacy. However, OTC nasal sprays may contain decongestants, which can worsen congestion with prolonged use.

Steam
Inhaling steam can thin the mucus and phlegm in the throat, after which you must drink a glass of water to cool down and prevent dehydration. Doctors also suggest filling a large bowl with hot water and adding essential oils such as rosemary or eucalyptus for relief from decongestion. Place a towel over the head and lean over the bowl to inhale the steam. Continue this for at least 3 minutes.

Humidifier
Cold and dry air can make one feel more congested and interfere with sinuses, thereby worsening cold, flu, and cough. Humidifiers can add moisture to the air, thereby making it easier to breathe. Running a humidifier while sleeping can open up nasal passages and promote good night’s sleep.

Medications for flu

If foods don’t help, you may consult a doctor and consider taking one of the following medications to relieve your flu symptoms.

XOFLUZA (Baloxavir marboxil)
This is an antiviral medicine approved by the FDA to treat flu (influenza) in people who are 12 years old and above. XOFLUZA comes in the form of oral tablets.

Tamiflu (oseltamivir phosphate)
This prescription medication is used to treat flu in individuals aged 2 weeks (14 days) and older. Tamiflu is available in capsule and liquid forms.

Rapivab (peramivir)
This antiviral flu medication is FDA-approved for people 6 months of age and older. Rapivab is an injectable medicine administered to those with acute uncomplicated influenza.