The past few weeks have not been so fun in my house--a mix of coughs, fevers, boogies, fatigue, and sore throats. Both kids and grown-ups have been knocked out by the season's germs. Hopefully you've avoided the flu monster so far, but in case you should encounter it, arm yourself with these remedies to help you get better quickly.
Gan Mao Ling is a traditional Chinese formula used to treat early stages of colds and flu. When taken at the first sign of symptoms, it can alleviate sore throats, nasal congestion, cough, and headaches. It can also be used for upper respiratory infections and mild brochitis.
Elderberry syrup has amazing immune support properties. It is antiviral, antibacterial, immunomodulatory, antioxiant, and anti-infammatory. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study found that patients with infulenza recovered 4 days quicker if they took elderberry syrup. In our house we take it daily as preventive and many times per day if sick. It tastes delicious so even the little kids can take it.
Of course, staying hydrated is key. Hot water with lemon and honey and chicken soup are both consumed by the vat in our house. Saline for nasal congestion is extremely helpful for the little ones. And rest rest rest! Sleep is restorative time, so give yourself plenty of it.