Cold and flu are common viral infections that can cause discomfort and irritation to an individual. It can lead to several symptoms such as fever, congestion, sore throat, headache, etc.

There are various medications available to treat these illnesses, but natural remedies can be an effective and affordable option. Let’s take a look at 15 natural ingredients that can help you fight flu and colds.

Ginger

Ginger contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help strengthen the immune system. Consuming ginger tea or adding ginger to your meals can help reduce inflammation and ease symptoms such as coughs and sore throat.

Garlic

Garlic has antiviral and antibacterial properties that can help fight off infections. Consuming raw garlic or adding it to your meals can help boost the immune system and reduce the severity and duration of cold and flu.

Echinacea

Echinacea is a herb that is commonly used to help treat flu and colds. It contains compounds that can help boost the immune system, reduces inflammation, and inhibit virus growth.

Taking echinacea supplements can help prevent or reduce the severity of flu and colds.

Honey

Honey contains antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help soothe a sore throat and reduce coughs. Consuming honey mixed with warm water or tea can help provide relief from cold and flu symptoms.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that helps boost the immune system and reduces the severity and duration of flu and colds. Foods that are rich in vitamin C include oranges, lemons, grapefruits, berries, and kiwis.

Chicken Soup

Chicken soup has been a popular remedy for flu and colds for years. It contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help reduce congestion and ease symptoms such as coughs and sore throat.

Chicken soup also helps keep you hydrated, which is important when you’re sick.

Probiotics

Probiotics are good bacteria that can help strengthen the immune system and improve gut health. Consuming probiotic-rich foods such as yogurt, kefir, and kimchi can help prevent or reduce the severity of flu and colds.

Elderberry

Elderberry is a fruit that contains compounds that can help reduce the severity and duration of flu and colds. It has antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties that can help boost the immune system and reduce symptoms such as fever and coughing.

Peppermint

Peppermint contains compounds that can help reduce inflammation and ease symptoms such as sore throat. Consuming peppermint tea or adding peppermint oil to your bath can help provide relief from flu and colds.

Onion

Onion contains compounds that can help fight off infections and strengthen the immune system. Consuming raw onion or adding it to your meals can help reduce the severity and duration of flu and colds.

Cayenne Pepper

Cayenne pepper contains compounds that can help reduce inflammation and ease symptoms such as cough and sore throat. Consuming cayenne pepper mixed with warm water or tea can help provide relief from flu and colds.

Zinc

Zinc is an essential mineral that helps boost the immune system and reduce the severity and duration of flu and colds. Foods that are rich in zinc include oysters, beef, poultry, beans, and nuts.

Neti Pot

A neti pot is a device that is used to help rinse out the nasal cavity. It can help reduce congestion and ease symptoms such as cough and sore throat. Using a neti pot with a saline solution can help provide relief from flu and colds.

Green Tea

Green tea contains compounds that can help strengthen the immune system and reduce the severity and duration of flu and colds. Drinking green tea can help reduce inflammation and ease symptoms such as cough and sore throat.

Steam

Steam inhalation can help reduce congestion and ease symptoms such as cough and sore throat. Adding essential oils such as eucalyptus or peppermint to the steam can help provide relief from flu and colds.