Natural Remedy for Cold and Flu

Natural Remedy for Cold and Flu

 

For a runny nose and cold, Dr. Starbuck prescribes ginger of usnea, herbs that dry out the mucus and provide antiseptic properties. She also directs her patients as follows…

 

 

 

Vaporizing or steam will help thin out mucus and keep it flowing-use a humidifier or simply a bowl or pan of just-boiled water to which you can add one or two drops of eucalyptus or lavender essential oil or several peppermint tea bags. Drape a towel over your head and stand over the water, to breather in its steam, taking care to avoid burning, of course. For patients suffering from a sore throat that feels hot and dry, Dr. Starbuck prescribes slippery elm, licorice or marshmallow root-all moistening herbs. A cool mist humidifier can also help.

Natural Remedy for Cold and Flu

Also: Saline solutions, including nasal sprays, can help break up mucus. For a more exotic approach, Dr. Starbuck often prescribes treatment with the neti pot, used in the practice of ancient ayurvedic medicine. When Mehmet Oz, MD, discussed how to use one on The Oprah Winfrey Sbow last year, these were boosted nearly into the “trendy” category as the must-have saline irrigation system. The neti pot resembles a teapot to be filled with four ounces of saline solution and poured into one nostril, thereby forcing mucus out of the other. Dr. Starbuck often directs her patients to add a quarter teaspoon of combined Echinacea and eyebright tincture to the saline packet mix.

 

Natural Remedy for Cold and Flu