5 Home-Grown Herbs to Help Fight the Flu

If you're struggling with the flu, you may be looking for ways to ease your symptoms and get better faster. Some people turn to supplements and home remedies, such as herbs, to help them feel better.

There is some evidence that certain herbs may help treat the flu. However, more research is needed to confirm these effects. Additionally, it's important to be aware that herbal supplements are not regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This means that their safety and effectiveness have not been proven.

Herbs as Flu Remedies

Still, if you're considering using herbs to treat the flu, there are a few that may be worth trying. Here are five of them.

1. Echinacea 

Echinacea is a flowering plant in the daisy family. It's native to North America and has been used traditionally to help treat a variety of conditions, including the flu.

There is some evidence that echinacea may help reduce the severity and duration of the flu. A review of 14 studies found that echinacea may be effective in treating the flu, especially when taken at the first sign of symptoms. 

Additionally, a study in 1,206 children ages 6–12 found that those who took echinacea were 58% less likely to develop the flu than those who took a placebo. 

Echinacea is available in supplements, teas, and tinctures. It can also be applied topically as an ointment or cream.

2. Elderberry 

Elderberry, also known as Sambucus nigra, is a flowering plant in the honeysuckle family. The berries and flowers of the elderberry plant have been used traditionally to treat the flu and other respiratory infections.

There is some evidence that elderberry may help treat the flu. A review of 15 studies found that taking elderberry supplements reduced the duration of flu symptoms by about three days.

Additionally, a study in 60 people found that those who took an elderberry supplement for five days had a significantly lower risk of developing flu symptoms than those who took a placebo. 

Elderberry supplements are available in tablet, capsule, syrup, and tea form. You can also find elderberries in tinctures, extracts, and ointments.

3. Garlic 

Garlic is a member of the onion family and has been used traditionally to treat a variety of conditions, including the flu.

A review of 11 studies found that taking garlic supplements reduced the risk of developing a cold by about 63%. 

Additionally, those who took garlic were less likely to have severe cold symptoms.

A separate study in 146 people found that those who took a garlic supplement for 12 weeks had a significantly lower risk of catching a cold than those who took a placebo. They also had fewer sick days and recovered from their colds faster.

Garlic supplements are available in a variety of forms, including tablets, capsules, and oils. You can also find garlic in powder form to add to food or take as a tea.

4. Green Tea  

Green tea is made from the Camellia sinensis plant and has been used traditionally to treat a variety of conditions, including the flu.

Green tea contains nutrients and compounds that may boost your immune system and help fight off infection. For example, green tea is a good source of antioxidants like epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), which has been shown to improve immunity. 

A study in 111 people found that those who took a green tea supplement for 12 weeks had a significantly lower risk of catching a cold or the flu than those who took a placebo. 

Green tea supplements are available in capsules, tablets, and powder form. You can also find green tea in liquid form to drink as a tea.

5. Honey 

Honey has been used traditionally to treat coughs and sore throats. It’s not a herb but the plant particles and pollen might very well be helpful for the overall immune system. 

It's also known for its antimicrobial properties, which may help fight off infection.

A review of 10 studies found that honey was more effective at relieving cough symptoms than over-the-counter (OTC) cough medicines like dextromethorphan (Robitussin).

Additionally, a study in 120 children found that honey was more effective at relieving cough and improving sleep than OTC cough medicines like diphenhydramine (Benadryl).

Honey is available in a variety of forms, including raw honey, honeycomb, and infused honey. It can also be found in supplements and throat lozenges.

Tips For Growing Flu-Fighting Herbs at Home

When it comes to fighting the flu, there are many different things that you can do. One of those things is to grow your own herbs. This way, you will have a natural and convenient way to get the benefits of these powerful plants.

Here are some tips for growing flu-fighting herbs at home:

1. Choose the right herbs. Some of the best flu-fighting herbs include echinacea, ginger, garlic, and lavender. Make sure to do your research so that you choose herbs that will be most effective for you.

2. Plant them in pots or in your garden. If you have a backyard, consider planting your herbs in pots or in raised beds. This way, they will be easier to care for and you will have better control over their growth.

3. Water them regularly. Herbs need to be watered regularly, especially during the summer months. Make sure to check on them frequently and water them as needed. 

4. Harvest your herbs when they are ready. When it comes time to harvest your herbs, make sure to do so carefully. Cut the leaves and stems from the plant, being careful not to damage the roots. 

5. Dry or freeze your herbs for future use. Once you have harvested your herbs, you can dry them or freeze them for future use. Drying herbs is a simple process that can be done by hanging them upside down in a cool, dark place. Freezing herbs is also a good.

Tools You'll Need

Here are some tools you'll need to get started growing plants at home:

1. Shovel: Used for digging holes and turning soil. 

2. Hoe: Used for weeding, aerating soil, and making furrows (shallow trenches) for planting seeds. 

3. Rake: Used for leveling soil, removing debris, and aerating soil. 

4. Watering can or hose: Used for watering plants. 

5. Fertilizer spreader: Used for applying fertilizer evenly over a large area.

Growing plants at home can be a fun and rewarding experience. By following the tips above, you'll be on your way to success. With a little patience and care, you can grow a variety of plants that will add beauty and life to your home. 

And yes, you can use these to fight off the symptoms of flu!