Although the flu can now be easily prevented with a vaccine, herbs can also be of great help if the flu strikes. They can relieve weakness and generally strengthen the body.
The flu is not to be trifled with. While we go to work and do our chores when we have a cold, we need to be much more strict with ourselves and our loved ones when we have flu, as serious complications can develop. The best remedy is rest and plenty of fluids, and herbal teas are an excellent alternative. Especially if they are made from the following herbs, which can also be a great help in curing the flu.
Complications of flu
It is important to take flu seriously, as its complications can be very serious. They can include bacterial pneumonia, cerebral circulatory disorders, meningitis, encephalitis, heart attacks, kidney failure and metabolic disorders.
Nettle
All parts of nettle have healing properties and are excellent for strengthening the body. It can also be a great remedy for viral illnesses and flu, reducing headaches, cleansing the body and eliminating weakness. To make nettle tea, simply boil the plant so that its active ingredients do not evaporate. Use a heaped tablespoon of nettle to a quarter of a litre of water. If you don’t like the taste, you can also mix in chamomile and peppermint. Drink 1-2 cups of it a day.
Martilapu
St. John’s wort is excellent for all kinds of respiratory ailments. Its decoction can be used as a chest compress, its tea as a throat gargle, and its syrup as a flu preventive and remedy. To make a tea, boil a humped tablespoon of martili peppers in a quarter of a litre of water and leave to steep for a short time. To make the syrup, take a jar and fill it alternately with martini leaves and sugar. Stack several layers in this way, allow to settle a little and then fill again.
The fresh leaves of the martilap are rich in vitamin C, so it’s a good idea to eat them fresh in the early spring when they appear. You can add its leaves to salads and soups. Cover the top with cling film and put it in a hidden, dark place. You can also take it out into the garden and bury it. Store it for 8 weeks, during which time it will ferment and make syrup. Boil it once or twice and take it by the teaspoonful when ill.
Sage
Sage can be grown in your garden or in a pot in your home, as it is not only a great seasoning for food, but also a good medicine. Sage strengthens the whole body, eliminates weakness, helps to sweat out illness and invigorates the body. Drink 1-2 cups of its tea a day. To a quarter of a litre of water add 1 teaspoon of sage, boil and leave to steep for a few minutes. Sage can also be added to broth, as it not only adds a delicate flavour but also helps to ward off illness.