Nobody likes being sick. Whether you have a cold, or flu, or just feel generally run down, being under the weather can be a real drag. Luckily, there are plenty of home remedies you can use to help ease your symptoms and get you feeling better in no time. Here are some of the best home remedies for when you’re feeling under the weather.
1. Drink Plenty of Fluids
When you’re sick, it’s important to stay hydrated. Drinking plenty of fluids can help keep your body hydrated, which can help ease symptoms like headaches and fatigue. Water is the best option, but you can also try drinking tea, soup, or broth.
2. Get Plenty of Rest
When you’re feeling under the weather, your body needs rest to help fight off infection. Make sure you’re getting plenty of sleep and taking it easy during the day. Avoid strenuous activities and try to relax as much as possible.
3. Use a Humidifier
If you’re dealing with a cold or the flu, using a humidifier can help ease symptoms like congestion and coughing. A humidifier adds moisture to the air, which can help soothe irritated nasal passages and make it easier to breathe.
4. Gargle with Salt Water
If you have a sore throat, gargling with salt water can help ease the pain. The saltwater can help reduce inflammation and kill bacteria in the throat, which can help speed up the healing process.
5. Use a Nasal Rinse
If you’re dealing with a stuffy nose, using a nasal rinse can help clear out mucus and reduce congestion. You can use a saline spray or try making your own nasal rinse by mixing water with a little bit of salt and baking soda.
6. Drink Ginger Tea
Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that can help ease symptoms like nausea and soreness. Drinking ginger tea can help soothe an upset stomach and reduce inflammation throughout the body.
7. Eat Foods Rich in Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that can help boost your immune system and reduce the duration of cold and flu symptoms. Eat plenty of foods rich in vitamin C, like oranges, grapefruits, and bell peppers, to help speed up your recovery.
8. Use Essential Oils
Certain essential oils, like eucalyptus and peppermint, can help ease symptoms like congestion and coughing. You can use a diffuser to spread the oils throughout your home, or try adding a few drops to a bowl of hot water and inhaling the steam.
9. Take a Warm Bath
Taking a warm bath can help ease muscle aches and reduce stress, which can help you feel better overall. Add a few drops of essential oils like lavender or chamomile to help soothe your body and mind.
10. Stay Positive
Lastly, it’s important to stay positive when you’re feeling under the weather. Remember that your body is capable of healing itself, and focus on doing things that make you happy and relaxed. Listen to your favorite music, watch a funny movie, or spend time with loved ones to help boost your mood and speed up your recovery.
11. Use Heat Therapy
Applying heat to a sore or achy area can help reduce pain and increase circulation. You can use a heating pad or a warm towel to apply heat to areas like your neck, back, or joints. Just be sure to use caution and avoid applying heat for too long, as it can cause burns.
12. Try Acupressure
Acupressure is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that involves applying pressure to certain points on the body to help relieve pain and promote healing. You can try using acupressure to ease symptoms like headache or nausea by applying pressure to specific points on your hands, feet, or head.
13. Use Echinacea
Echinacea is an herb that has been used for centuries to help boost the immune system and fight off infections. You can take echinacea supplements or drink echinacea tea to help reduce the severity and duration of cold and flu symptoms.
14. Drink Bone Broth
Bone broth is a nutrient-rich liquid made from simmering bones and connective tissue. Drinking bone broth can help soothe an upset stomach, reduce inflammation, and boost your immune system. You can make your own bone broth by simmering bones and vegetables in water for several hours, or you can purchase pre-made bone broth at the grocery store.
15. Use Honey
Honey has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe a sore throat and reduce coughing. You can add honey to tea, eat it straight from the spoon, or mix it with other ingredients like lemon or ginger to make a natural cough syrup.
16. Take a Zinc Supplement
Zinc is a mineral that can help boost your immune system and reduce the severity and duration of cold and flu symptoms. You can take zinc supplements or eat foods rich in zinc, like oysters, beef, and pumpkin seeds, to help support your immune system.
17. Get Some Fresh Air
Getting some fresh air and sunlight can help boost your mood and energy levels, which can help you feel better overall. Just be sure to dress appropriately for the weather and avoid spending too much time outside if you’re feeling too weak or fatigued.
18. Avoid Certain Foods
When you’re feeling under the weather, certain foods can make your symptoms worse. Avoid foods that are high in sugar, caffeine, and processed ingredients, as these can exacerbate symptoms like headache, fatigue, and nausea.
19. Use Herbal Remedies
There are many herbs that can help soothe common cold and flu symptoms. For example, elderberry can help reduce the duration of cold and flu symptoms, while chamomile can help ease anxiety and promote relaxation. Be sure to talk to your doctor before using any herbal remedies, as some may interact with medications or have side effects.
20. Practice Good Hygiene
Finally, practicing good hygiene can help prevent the spread of germs and reduce your risk of getting sick in the first place. Wash your hands frequently, avoid touching your face, and cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.
Conclusion
Being under the weather can be tough, but there are plenty of home remedies you can use to help ease your symptoms and get you feeling better in no time. By drinking plenty of fluids, getting plenty of rest, and using remedies like ginger tea and nasal rinses, you can help speed up your recovery and get back to feeling your best.
