It’s winter again, the season that never seems to end. Doesn’t this season seem to bring about the dreaded cold and flu. We already have to deal with the cold weather and the gloom. But, throw in a few sick kids and things go from bad to worse. Add into that the cost of doctors and medicines. However, there are a few preemptive measures that you can take to alleviate the winter blues and help improve your family’s health. Here are some useful diy, natural remedies for cold and flu. Hopefully these suggestions can offer insight into What is Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
1) What is Complementary and Alternative Medicine -Tweak your diet
Eating healthy is perhaps the best way to prevent illness or increase recovery time. If you’re wondering What is Complementary and Alternative Medicine, it starts with your food consumption. Be sure to add color to your diet.
- Red and Orange – Beets, carrots, and red peppers are rich in vitamin C
- Green – Kale and spinach are rich with magnesium, vitamin A, folate, and iron. All of these vitamins and minerals help with cellular regeneration.
- Dark Fruits and Veggies – Eggplant and blueberries are great examples of foods that are high in potassium and B6. This helps to decrease fatigue and ease aches and pains.
Tweaking your diet can also serve as home remedies for sinus infections. During a sinus infection eat whole grains, beans, lentils, soups, and lightly cooked vegetables. And avoid flour products, eggs, fried and processed foods, sugar, and dairy. And always drink plenty of water.
2) What is Complementary and Alternative Medicine – Essential Oils
Oils have been used as a panacea for centuries. This may be a more expensive option, but the cost far out weighs that of doctor visits and prescription medications.
- Lavender Oil – Doubles as a sleep agent and a pain reliever.
- Oil of Oregano – High in antiviral/antibacterial properties.
- Peppermint – The eucalyptus contained in it is a natural decongestant. Peppermint also relieves headaches.
- Thieves Oil Blend – To make your own simply mix the following in a dark glass bottle: (1) Tbsp Clove Essential Oil, (1) Tbsp Lemon Essential Oil, (2) tsp Cinnamon Bark Essential Oil, (2) tsp Eucalyptus Essential Oil, and (2) tsp Rosemary Essential Oil.
3) Natural Remedies for Sore Throats – Drink Tea
Tea is one of many natural remedies for sore throats. Drinking warm tea soothes respiratory passages, relieves sore/scratchy throats, and acts as a natural stimulant(use decaffeinated tea if drinking before bedtime). Black tea contains tannic acid which constricts inflamed blood vessels in sore throats. Also use lemon and honey. Lemon can cut through mucus secretions while honey is antimicrobial and provides comfort to a raw throat with every sip. A well made serving of hot tea is one of many home remedies for colds and flu.
4) How to Clear a Stuffy Nose – Keeping Nasal Passages Clear
Unfortunately, using our heaters in the winter dries out nasal passages. This strips one of our natural defenses because nasal passages require moisture to trap germs. Do you wonder how to clear a stuffy nose without drying out your nasal passages? A humidifier is an easy way to help you breath easier by adding moisture back into the air. Another diy solution is to use an aromatic salve on your chest. You can purchase this at a store or make your own.
- Homemade Vapor Rub – (10) drops Lavender Essential Oil, (10) drops Eucalyptus Essential Oil, and (14) cups of unscented Petroleum Jelly. Microwave Petroleum jelly no more than 20 seconds at a time and stir. Repeat until it has melted completely. Add oils and stir. Pour the mixture into a container with a lid, seal, and allow for it to cool.
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