Flu Fighters: What is an alternative therapy to treat a Cold or Flu Virus?

In times like these, when COVID-19 is still very much rife and flu mainly strikes during the winter, it’s more important than ever to make sure you give your Immune System the support it needs. Our resident content writer & blogger Mark looks at how to give yourself optimum Immune Support this winter, using a selection of some of our most popular natural & alternative remedies that may help to fight a Cold & Flu virus.

Why are respiratory viruses worse in winter?

Though previous COVID lockdown’s have reduced the amount of time we interact with our friends & family, and subsequently reduced our chances of catching a cold, this type of virus lives longer indoors during the winter. Air circulation indoors is notably less humid than that of the air outside, so as we start to spend more time indoors during those cold winter months and have closer contact with our loved ones, this makes it much easier for a virus to circulate.

Is having a runny nose one of the symptoms of COVID-19 or a regular cold?

At the very start of the COVID-19 pandemic, way back in 2020, the main symptoms to be wary of were a continuous cough, a loss of smell or a high temperature. However, fast forward to the present and as we approach the end of 2021, more studies have suggested that there could be in fact up to twenty COVID related symptoms, some of which include a runny nose, headache & sore throat. Nevertheless a loss of taste or smell still remains as one of the most notable precursors of a positive COVID test, so it’s important to be aware of this symptom, regardless of whether you’ve been vaccinated or not. In any case, don't panic and if you are in any doubt, be safe and take a rapid lateral flow test.

What is the best natural cure for a cold?

At Natures Healthbox, our top 8 selling natural cold & flu fighting products are;

Allicin Max Powder 90 Capsules.

Langdales Essence of Cinnamon 200ml.

A.Vogel Echinaforce Echinacea Drops 100ml.

Lamberts Gentle Vitamin C 500mg 100 Tablets.

Comvita Manuka Honey & Olive Leaf Lozenges.

Sambucol Original Black Elderberry Liquid 120ml.

Sambucol For Kids Black Elderberry Liquid 120ml.

A.Vogel Echinaforce Echinacea Hot Drink with Elderberry 100ml.

What does allicin treat?

Allicin is the compound that forms from crushed or chopped Garlic. Studies suggest that garlic may help fight colds and the flu, so Allicin Max Powder Capsules may reduce your risk of developing an illness, and help you to recover quickly.

Is cinnamon good for cold symptoms?

Cinnamon has been traditionally used for many years to help combat the symptoms caused by the common cold. It is rich in antioxidant polyphenols and proanthocyanidins that naturally boost immunity, and is also packed with antiviral properties too!

Langdales Essence of Cinnamon features the aromatic qualities of cinnamon which are blended with three natural herbal expectorants. This product is considered to be a very useful aid by our loyal customer base, when the weather turns colder and viruses become more virulent.

Is echinacea good for colds and flu?

For hundreds of years, people have been taking Echinacea for colds and flu as it is widely believed to boost the immune system. In Germany, the German government has even approved the use of echinacea for the treatment of cold & flu symptoms - more about this in my previous blog “Echinacea: A passing trend or wonderful winter remedy?”.

A.Vogel Echinaforce Echinacea Drops and A.Vogel Echinaforce Echinacea Hot Drink with Elderberry make our top eight selling products, as both may be used to help your Body fight infections of the upper respiratory tract.

Does vitamin C help with a cold?

Vitamin C has long been the subject of various studies as a possible treatment for cold & flu infections, however while it doesn't appear to prevent colds it does reduce their length and severity -  more about this in my previous blog "What is winter wellness?".

Lamberts Gentle Vitamin C 500mg Tablets are a gentle non-acidic form of vitamin C supplement, which contains Calcium ascorbate. They make our top eight products as they are preferred by those with very sensitive tummies or by those who may already be supplementing with large amounts of vitamin C.

Is Manuka honey good for your throat?

It appears so! Research suggests that Manuka Honey may reduce the growth of throat bacteria, making Comvita Manuka Honey & Olive Leaf Lozenges the ideal option for when you have a Cough & Sore Throat.

Does Sambucol actually do anything?

Both Sambucol Original Black Elderberry Liquid and the child friendly Sambucol For Kids Black Elderberry Liquid are said to provide powerful immune system support to help you and your family stay healthy all year long. Each great-tasting product is bursting with the best Antioxidants that nature has to offer. And since these products are powered by fruit, they can be used daily too!

Conclusion:

It is almost impossible to prevent influenza and the common cold, however common sense, good hygiene and a healthy diet that is boosted by immune supporting Supplements should at least contain them and reduce their severity. But make no mistake the flu is potentially life-threatening, so make the sensible choice to have the flu vaccination when it is offered to you and protect not only yourself but those around you.