What causes the flu? Flu outbreaks are caused by changing strains of three primary flu viruses. Type A viruses are the most potent and responsible for epidemics. Type B viruses are less severe, and type C viruses are the mildest, more like a common cold.
Stay in bed, rest or sleep until your temperature usually returns. Drink room temperature water and choose fruit/vegetable juices, vegetables, chicken, or clear meat soups. If you have a dry cough, use a humidifier in the room and add eucalyptus oil.
Some of the natural cures used for centuries to prevent colds and flu are promising results in research studies.
1 Elderberry (Sambucus). One of the natural cures that have attracted much attention is elderberry extract, which prevents the virus from attacking cells. One study found a 50% reduction in the severity and duration of symptoms after taking elderberry extract.
2 Ginseng. A study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal found that a ginseng extract reduced respiratory tract infections by 25% over four months. However, children should not consume ginseng, people with hypertension, take blood sugar medication or antidepressants, and pregnant or lactating women.
3 Astragalus. Astragalus has fewer warnings than ginseng. The dried root of astragalus is a popular ingredient in traditional Chinese herbal formulas. Herbalists recommend it as an immune tonic for people who tend to get frequent colds.
4 Ginger. A cup of hot ginger tea is refreshing and a great cold fighter. Ginger contains compounds against rhinoviruses, the most common group of cold viruses. Ginger is a diaphoretic, which fights colds by gently raising body temperature and promoting perspiration.
Does the flu kill? The flu is especially dangerous for people with weakened immune systems, elderly and infants. It can range from a mild illness to a life-threatening one. Every year, thousands of people die from the flu.
An estimated 350,000 to 600,000 people worldwide die annually from influenza and its complications. Most flu deaths are due to the complications it can cause, such as pneumonia. The virus can invade the lungs and weaken the immune system, making it difficult for the body to fight infection.
