Natural remedies for influenza and respiratory infections

With the coming of the colder seasons, respiratory infections are once again a widespread problem, and many people seek natural remedies against influenza to prevent or cure symptoms such as colds, coughs and sore throats. Some solutions can actually help relieve symptoms and support the immune system, thanks to antimicrobial, soothing and immunostimulating properties.

Warning: these remedies may offer good support, but they should not be considered miracles or used as substitutions for medical advice, especially for people with chronic health problems or immune frailty.

That being said, let’s see what natural substances can relieve some common symptoms and how some products may help in the context of a broader approach. What does this mean? You’ve probably heard that “prevention is better than cure” and that sentence is absolutely correct in this case, especially when acting in the right way: let’s find out how.

How to get rid of the flu in a day or night: myths and realities

When the first flu symptoms appear, it is natural to want to recover in record time, perhaps hoping for a remedy that will work overnight. The reality, however, is that the immune system needs time to respond to the viral attack.

If healing completely in 24 hours is not realistic, then there are measures that can help to quickly improve the overall well-being of the body.

Rest is essential: allowing the body to stop for a while allows you to concentrate it’s energies against the virus, facilitating the healing process. Staying hydrated is equally crucial; drinking water, hot teas and broths rich in minerals helps in fluidizing secretions and avoiding dehydration, which would slow down the immune response. Regarding nutrients, some studies indicate that vitamin C and zinc supplements may support the immune system, but it is always advisable to consult a doctor before starting to take any supplements.

Natural remedies for colds

The common cold, caused by various viral strains, has annoying symptoms such as congestion, runny nose and sore throat.

Some natural ingredients have proven to be good allies in alleviating these symptoms: ginger, for example, is known for its anti-inflammatory and warming properties, and can help calm an irritated respiratory tract. Making a hot tea from fresh ginger, honey and lemon is a popular remedy, as the heat of the liquid helps reduce congestion, while honey soothes the throat and lemon provides vitamin C.

Garlic can also be a valuable ally. Rich in allicin, a compound with antimicrobial properties, can help reduce microbial load and support the immune system. You have to be careful, however: garlic should be used with caution because it can interact with some drugs, triggering side effects or reducing their effectiveness.

Another natural remedy you may have heard of is echinacea, a plant widely studied for its immune-stimulating effect, which can help reduce the symptoms of colds (if taken on appearance of the first signs). It comes in many forms, including capsules, extracts and infusions, and can positively contribute to the immune system during the winter.

Natural remedies for coughs

The cough is one of the most annoying and persistent symptoms of respiratory infections. It can cause sleepless nights and tedious days, and to reduce it some remedies can be used, such as thyme tea. Thyme is a plant with antitussive and antimicrobial properties, useful to relieve cough and disinfect the oral cavity. Making a hot tea with thyme and adding honey and lemon can be an effective soothing remedy for the throat, although the relief – as you can imagine – is only temporary.

Propolis, a bee product with known antibacterial properties, is also found to be useful in fighting coughs and inflammation. It can be used in the form of a spray or liquid extract and, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, is able to calm the cough and promote the healing of irritated mucous membranes. It is to be absolutely avoided in case of allergy to apitoxin (even if slight), because the effect can be similar.

Although these remedies are supportive, it is to be remembered that a medical consultation is always important to assess the underlying causes of a cough, such as the presence of any infections that may require more specific treatment.

Natural remedies for sore throat

A sore throat is often the first symptom of a respiratory infection, because it is an expression of the inflammatory peak that affects our body and can be very painful, sometimes even debilitating.

A common and easy natural remedy is to gargle with lukewarm water and salt, as this solution has disinfecting properties and can temporarily reduce pain.

Sage, a plant known for its antibacterial and soothing qualities, is also widely used for this purpose. Gargling with a sage infusion can help calm any burning sensation and promote the recovery of the voice in case of hoarseness.

Obviously, if the inflammation is strong, these remedies will have very limited effectiveness.

Remedies for flu without fever

Not all flus are accompanied by fever; sometimes symptoms include general malaise, muscle pain and fatigue.

In this “vague” context, some natural remedies can help to give a little relief. Black currant, for example, is valued for its high content of vitamin C and antioxidants, which support immune function.

Another combination you may have heard of is turmeric with honey: turmeric contains curcumin, described as a powerful anti-inflammatory, and honey is known to be soothing. The problem is that current studies have not been able to confirm such beneficial properties, particularly because of a bioavailability issue. This means that our body cannot assimilate enough of it to express its positive effects and therefore should not be considered as an effective natural remedy.

Natural antibiotics for influenza

While not being actual antibiotics, some natural ingredients are known to have antimicrobial properties. Garlic, for example, has shown a certain antimicrobial effect thanks to allicin, useful in fighting bacteria and viruses. Ginger can also play a similar role, as it has anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties that support the immune system during infections. Finally, cinnamon, often used as a spice, contains substances with antimicrobial properties that can be useful against some pathogens and add a pleasant aromatic note to herbal teas.

Functional and natural remedies to prevent influenza: the role of Referol Immuno

When it comes to preventing flu, one of the most effective methods is to strengthen the immune system.

Here is where Referol Immuno comes in. It is a supplement specifically formulated to support the immune system in a natural way, which combines several natural substances with scientifically proven effects.

Referol Immuno contains echinacea, known for its immunostimulating effect. Studies show that echinacea can support the body’s response to viral and bacterial infections, improving resistance to infection. Another key component is astragalus, an adaptogen plant used for centuries in traditional Asian medicine to improve the immune response and reduce physical fatigue, being especially useful in cold months. The product is also enriched with vitamin C and zinc, which are essential nutrients for maintaining an efficient immune system and reducing susceptibility to respiratory infections.

The picture is completed by the presence of eleutherococcus and resveratrol, which help support the immune system and counter oxidative stress, and 5 strains of probiotics that also support the gastrointestinal tract. The combination of these ingredients creates a complete and synergistic formula, ideal for those who want an effective and natural boost to their immune system.

This dual action makes Referol Immuno an extremely valuable product:

• during the acute stages, thanks to its immunostimulating action and the presence of 5 different strains of a total of 10 billion probiotics, Referol Immuno helps restore the bacterial flora, strengthen the immune system and prevent gastrointestinal complications often related to influenza;
• in prophylaxis, it reduces flu symptoms by up to 58% and shortens the infection by about a day and a half in patients suffering from recurrent respiratory infections.

Natural remedies for the flu: do they work?

Natural remedies offer valuable support to better cope with the flu and respiratory infections, especially when chosen thoughtfully and in synergy with medical advice.

Referol Immuno is an ideal solution for those seeking a natural and targeted ally to strengthen immune defenses, thanks to an advanced formula that combines natural and scientifically studied ingredients. A practical option to improve one’s immune resistance, always remembering to refer to your doctor in case of more significant symptoms.