Home Remedies For Man Flu
It may seem like yet another ploy to make men look like they have it quite hard, but extensive studies have shown that men experience influenza differently from women. There is a whole ‘science’ behind it and it makes a whole lot of sense. These same studies have recorded that though the hormone testosterone has its upsides, it also weakens the body’s natural immune response to viral infections. On the other hand, estrogen has anti-viral qualities, so as much as that is great news for the girls, it essentially means that the man flu is quite real. In order to combat this virus without coming out overly medicated, here are some useful home remedies.
1. Honey
There is no doubt that this substance holds the key to a whole range of remedies, but in this case, it kicks the flu where it hurts most. Overall, honey does wonders when it comes to respiratory viral infections of all kinds. Certain types of it, such as Manuka honey have even stronger properties. The upside is that it contains compounds that enhance the efficacy of a range of anti-viral drugs used for the treatment of flu. So, in this case, a spoonful of honey makes the medicine go down.
2. Elderberry
Its distinct flavor makes this plant make a great accompaniment for a wide range of edibles, but it also serves as a great means of treating the man’s cold. The sniffles may be strong, but this is definitely a whole lot stronger. With the little purple berries of this plant, users can reduce the symptoms of the virus altogether and even shorten the total duration of the bout. For years this has been a tried and tested method of alleviating cold and flu symptoms. The meager dose of 15 ml four times a day can have even the worst cases of flu gone before you know it.
3. Garlic
Vampires are not the only beings repelled by this plant; it would seem that the man flu equally has nothing on this superfood. It has come a long way from simply being used to ward off bad omens, as it is now tested and proven as a great anti-viral substance. There is a compound present in the bulb plant commonly known as Allicin. When the garlic is crushed, Allicin is released and it gives the total immune system a good old boost. This goes a long way to guard against and even fight of the flu virus.
4. Ginger
Ginger is a total lifesaver, not only does it offer up a great flavor for all sorts of meals, but it is a great man flu remedy. Research has brought to light the fact that ginger is loaded with antiviral properties, specially targeted at the ones which attack the respiratory system. The great thing about it is that it is absolutely delicious in some mixtures. So, some good old ginger tea with an accompaniment of honey can serve as a pleasant way to kick the man flu out of your life.
5. Licorice
Forget the love-hate relationship that you may have with this substance when it comes to the man flu, it is a superhero. The compound which actually combats the cold and flu is a component of licorice root known as Glycyrrhiza. It goes a long way to halt the progress of the virus while equally alleviating the symptoms altogether. As little as 4 grams a day of this substance can rid anyone of the man flu before they can remember that it was even there.
6. Eucalyptus Steam
If you are going to inhale something, it might as well be something that is good for you. That is why eucalyptus steam offers up a valid way to alleviate and totally get rid of the flu and its symptoms. Simply put some drops of eucalyptus oil in some boiling water or facial steamer, then proceed to inhale the steam. This will, in turn, thin the mucus present in the respiratory tract thus alleviating some of those strong symptoms and restoring a whole lot of comfort.
7. Olive Leaf
There are compounds present in the leaf itself that go a long way to combat the man flu. These helpful nutrients are generally known as polyphenols and are packed with antiviral properties. They specifically work by altering the membrane of the virus itself, then shutting down its ability to penetrate the cells in the body. So, wave goodbye to the flu once you have this potent substance which can be taken in the form of capsules or tea. Anything between 500 to 1000 mg per day will do the trick.
8. Water
It may seem overly simple but sometimes the best things in life happen to be extremely simple. It goes a long way to loosen up any form of congestion present in the respiratory tract and also helps with dehydration (which is never a good thing). In fact, water is not the only fluid that does the trick. Some juice, broth or soup can help as well. Nevertheless, be sure to steer clear of alcohol, coffee, and fizzy drinks as they may cause dehydration.
9. Nettle Leaf
This is another sure way to alleviate and tackle the symptoms of cold and flu thanks to its top-notch properties. The fact that it is packed with a wide range of vitamins and minerals contributes a whole lot to its all-around efficacy. It does not only do wonders for the flu, but other ailments are in trouble too. With nettle leaf, the immune system can get all the help it needs to battle the ever-pesky man flu.
10. Rest
In most cases, some good old rest and relaxation can go a long way in alleviating the flu symptoms. The man flu can be brutal, so be sure to listen to the signs the body offers up and rest as much as possible. This will reroute a lot of energy to the components of the body that need it the most. All in all, it will make you feel a lot better and speed up the healing process.
