In our constant quest to improve and preserve our health, especially with the arrival of colder days, we are often confronted with the familiar seasonal ailments of the flu and the common cold. Although they are common ailments, they can cause considerable disruption to our daily lives, especially in winter.
Fortunately, beyond conventional medicines, there are a myriad of effective natural remedies to combat them. These often underestimated alternatives not only offer relief from symptoms, but also naturally boost our immune system.
In this category, we present natural and affordable remedies, detailing how each can help us overcome these seasonal illnesses. From the importance of herbal remedies to the benefits of hydration and essential vitamins and minerals, we'll cover all aspects of natural remedies to provide you with a comprehensive and practical guide.
Differentiating between flu and influenza infection
Understanding the difference between the flu and a flu infection is essential. While the flu manifests itself with brutal symptoms such as muscle aches, high fever and headaches, a flu infection is often less intense and shorter-lasting. Knowing these distinctions can help you choose the most appropriate treatment.
Find out more about flu symptoms?
Influenza is one of the most common infectious diseases. Influenza is a highly contagious acute respiratory infectious disease caused by viruses of the Influenza genus. It evolves in epidemics, which can be worldwide when the virus responsible infects people who have never encountered it before. This is known as a pandemic.
Seasonal influenza occurs between November and April in the Northern Hemisphere, and from April to September in the Southern Hemisphere. In tropical countries, the Influenza virus circulates all year round.
Seasonal flu is a viral infection that can be diagnosed during a simple consultation with a general practitioner. In the event of complications, further tests may be carried out.
Before consulting a doctor to find out whether or not you have the flu, there are a number of symptoms that are common among patients. Here are those that can generally be spotted, with intensity varying from one person to another:
- Fever
- aches and pains in muscles and/or joints, similar to aches and pains
- General weakness and intense fatigue (called asthenia)
- headaches
- A dry cough
- Throat irritation, in some cases
- Nasal congestion, in some cases
- sneezing
- Chills
- loss of appetite
Note that the first signs of the virus generally appear 24 to 48 hours after infection.
How do you know if you've caught a cold?
The common cold is caused by a virus. It's a common infection of the nose and throat, also known as viral or acute rhinitis. The common cold causes sneezing, nasal congestion (blocked nose), a runny nose that requires blowing the nose, and often a sore throat. Symptoms appear gradually and persist for 5 to 7 days, rarely longer.
The frequency of colds is linked to age: children as young as 2 years old may catch a cold 10 times a year, while senior citizens may catch one only once a year. With age, the body develops immunity to many of the viruses responsible for colds.
Colds are more common in the shoulder seasons of autumn and spring. In winter, when the air in our homes is generally drier, the dry mucous membranes of the nose become less effective at fighting viruses and preventing the onset of colds.
What natural flu and cold remedies are useful?
Colds and flu are commonplace in winter. Both colds and flu are common and usually benign illnesses. Runny nose, cough, fatigue, headaches, fever... to treat a cold or flu, discover our selection of natural pharamceutical products to fight effectively.
Natural strategies for fever and colds
Cold compresses can be used to reduce fever. Using a saline solution to rinse the nose is also an effective way of eliminating viruses and bacteria from the nasal cavity.
Remedies for coughs and sore throats
For a dry cough, lukewarm milk with honey, as well as plantain or rosehip herbal teas, can soothe irritation. For oily coughs, infusions of primrose, fennel, aniseed or thyme are more appropriate.
For sore throats, infusions of chamomile, sage and thyme, as well as hot milk with honey, can offer significant relief. Herbal sweets with honey stimulate salivary gland activity, preventing the throat from drying out.
Hydration and Rest: Keys to Recovery
The importance of hydration cannot be underestimated in the event of a cold or flu. Drinking water, herbal teas or fruit juices is crucial. Did you know that it's recommended to drink an extra liter of water for every degree of fever above the normal range? This helps compensate for fluid loss and speeds recovery.
Rest also plays a vital role. To enable your body to recover effectively, it's essential to give it enough rest. Quality sleep can greatly improve your ability to fight infection.
The Sweat Cure: An ancient technique for strengthening defences
The sweat cure, though ancient, is an effective method of boosting the immune system. It involves taking a hot bath with a few drops of thyme oil, followed by the consumption of sweat-inducing herbal teas such as elderberry, linden, chamomile or ginger. However, it's important to note that this practice is not recommended for people with heart or circulatory problems.
The effect of medicinal plants on cold symptoms
Many medicinal plants play a key role in combating cold and flu symptoms:
- Ivy: Contains saponins that thin bronchial secretions and dilate the bronchi.
- Turmeric : A powerful anti-inflammatory, turmeric, a golden spice, is renowned for its anti-inflammatory properties, ideal during flu season.
- Sage: The tannins present kill germs and protect mucous membranes.
- Ginger : An ally against sore throats, ginger, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, is excellent for relieving sore throats.
- Eucalyptus: Its essential oil has an expectorant and antispasmodic effect.
- Primroses: Promotes the formation of new mucus in the bronchi.
- Garlic : A natural antibacterial, garlic isn't just for cooking; it's also a powerful antibacterial that can boost your immune system.
- Linden: Mucilage protects the pharynx and relieves coughs.
- Iceland Moss: Forms a protective layer over irritated mucous membranes.
- Echinacea: Stimulates the immune system.
- Thyme: has an expectorant effect and fights bacterial infections of the respiratory tract.
What products are available on the Soin-et-Nature website to cope with the cold?
Soin-et-Nature offers a varied range of products specifically designed to cope with the rigors of winter and protect your health. Here are the categories available:
These cold-weather products, available on Soin-et-Nature, help preserve your well-being and strengthen your resistance throughout the winter season, by promoting respectful and effective solutions.
