The Spanish Society of Internal Medicine (SEMI) defines influenza as a viral infection which causes fever (temperature above 37.8 °C), cough, muscle pain throughout the body and other symptoms such as general malaise, sore throat or runny nose. The SEMI distinguishes between two main types of flu: seasonal (the most popular in winter) and the pandemic (when a new strain of the virus spreads among many people in different parts of the world).
“Given the nature of the flu and its ability to spread rapidly, preventing its occurrence becomes a priority for public health,” explains María Elisa Calle Puróndoctor specializing in epidemiology, preventive medicine and public health.
In this context, a wide spectrum of advice and supposed home remedies has been generated that, according to some, can help relieve symptoms or even prevent the disease. But what is true in these statements? ¿There really are remedies Effective homemade remedies to combat the flu or are they simply a myth?
María Elisa Calle maintains that There is no home remedy that can cure the flu or cold.. However, it does recognize the existence of a series of recommendations “that can somewhat shorten the period of illness and, above all, improve discomfort,” adds the specialist.
Vitamin C?
According to the doctor, the vitamin C and echinacea infusions They may slightly reduce the duration of the illness, perhaps shortening it by a day at most. For its part, the issue of zinc is quite controversial. While it is true that zinc supplements can shorten the period of illness, this nutrient can have side effects: “It is not recommended that a person follow any medical treatment with other drugs that include zinc, as there could be interactions and side effects , such as the possibility of causing diarrhea.
Ginger or turmeric
Other frequently talked about remedies are ginger or turmeric. The problem, says the specialist, is that we do not know exactly the specific amount we must take for it to be effective, since, usually, we add only a drop to our dishes. “There are no studies that say you have to take a specific amount for it to work. You can add a little ginger or turmeric to your dishes, but don’t count on it to cure the flu“says Calle Purón.
Hydration: water, juices…
Of course, as the doctor explains, it has been observed that, in certain cases, adequate hydration can help reduce the discomfort associated with the flu, what doctors call “general malaise.” In practice, this means that “consuming, at room or warm temperature, water, infusions, orange juices, hot broths or even a mixture of lemon juice with honey and water can be beneficial.”
Humidifiers
An additional element that may be beneficial is the humidifiers. But it must be taken into account that “before using it each day, it is essential to empty the remaining water, add fresh water with a small amount of bleach and clean it thoroughly, since the humidifier could become an environment conducive to the proliferation of bacteria,” details Calle Purón.
Recommendations: hard candies, milk with honey and anti-inflammatories, among others
For their part, SEMI experts maintain that to relieve throat discomfort there are several effective approaches. Suck hard candysuch as marshmallow or mint, which have been a traditional remedy for sore throats, may be helpful. They also recommend the propolis candies or those containing honey and lemon.
Additionally, eucalyptus leaf mists can provide relief by reducing feelings of congestion and improving breathing. Another beneficial option is to perform nasal inhalations with saline solution or warm water with a pinch of salt.
Julio Arrizabalagadoctor of internal medicine and specialist in infectious diseases, explains that a home remedy in certain areas is milk with honey before going to bed. The expert emphasizes that this classic has no impact as a specific treatment for the flu, “it improves the symptoms, but it does not act on the virus,” emphasizes Arrizabalaga.
As for pain, anti-inflammatories, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, are effective in relieving pain, as long as they are safe and appropriate for the person consuming them. And, although they are not considered home remedies, the flu medications available in pharmacies can also be beneficial in relieving flu symptoms.
According to the doctor, although these medications do not cure the disease, they can provide some relief. However, it is essential to understand that fever above 38 degrees and muscle aches may persist despite these treatments, and are unlikely to disappear completely. “In this context, Resting adequately and staying well hydrated are key aspects,” warns the infectious disease specialist.
In fact, experts agree, rest and hydration can be considered the most important measures to combat the flu. This care can significantly contribute to your recovery and well-being during the disease process.