Cold and flu remedies

This is due to multiple factors, among which are the activation of certain viruses, the concentration in closed spaces and the fact that the cold makes them cilia, villi that are lining the nasal mucosa, lose mobility and become stiff.

What are the cilia of the nose?

These cilia are very important as a defense mechanism since they are the ones that control the passage of microorganisms, dust particles, allergens and pollutants through our respiratory tract, so by decreasing their mobility they control the passage of microorganisms that look like this worse. favored its infectivity. For this reason, the most frequent diseases in winter are.

Both the cold and the flu, being viral diseases, do not have specific treatment and it is the body itself through its defense system that is responsible for eliminating viruses.

What is herbal medicine?

With herbal medicine, symptoms that affect the upper respiratory tract can be prevented and treated mainly. respiratory system and that accompany colds and flu, such as cough, nasal congestion and inflammations and throat irritations. There are many plants that have proven action on the respiratory system and become prominent when winter comes and becomes a, such as:

• Echinacea
• Pelargonium
• Licorice
• Thyme
• Eucalyptus
• Marshmallow
• Grindelia
• Ivy
• Pine tree
• Sage

Echinacea (Echinacea spp) stimulates the immune system, enhancing defenses against viral infections of the upper respiratory tract such as. It also has anti-inflammatory activity of the mucous membranes and hinders the growth of certain viruses. Echinacea preparations, taken at the first symptom, shorten colds and prevent superinfections. Although it should not be used by people with autoimmune diseases (such as multiple sclerosis, psoriasis or others). Atopic patients should consult your doctor before taking echinacea due to the risk of reactions. Pregnant women and children under 12 years old should not use it without medical supervision. It can be found in the form of capsules, drops, syrups and lozenges to dissolve in the mouth.

Pelargonium (Pelargoniumídos), increases defense mechanisms against viruses and bacteria and it has been shown that preparations based on pelargonium root also shorten the evolution of viral respiratory infections, preventing superinfection by bacteria that are the cause of complications. of colds (,,,, etc.). Pelargonium preparations can be used by adults and children over 6 years of age. It is usually in the form of drops.

Other useful plants For symptomatic treatment we can also use many plants, for example, for the treatment of tos: grindelia, ivy, eucalyptus, licorice, thyme, plantain, fennel and green anise, among others, will help reduce coughs, thin mucus and expectoration. They can be found in the form of syrups, drops, capsules or infusions. Other plants such as marshmallow, mallow, aloe gel, sage, peppermint, myrrh and propolis (which contain the ingredients of the plants that bees suck), in spray or tablets to dissolve in the mouth, relieve the discomfort of a sore and irritated throat.

An infusion and some steam

• An infusion prepared with a small teaspoon (of those for coffee) of thyme leaves per cup of water, taken 3 times a day, is a great expectorant in case of cough associated with a cold and also calms an irritating cough.
• A few vapors. When the nose is stuffy and you feel congestion in the bronchial tubes, fumes are still a great option to decongest. Preparation: Bring water to a boil and when it boils, add a large spoonful of chopped eucalyptus leaves. Boil for a few more minutes and remove from heat. He places his face above the pan at a distance enough to avoid burning himself and covers his head with a cloth so as not to waste the steam and inhale it better. Immediately you will notice how the nose and bronchial tubes become clear.

«Informative note: the contents included in this section offer information related to existing therapies explained by specialists with experience in the field with an informative objective. MAPFRE does not intend under any circumstances to position itself on its suitability or expressly promote its use. "

• Colds and flu are viral diseases that do not have specific treatment and it is the body itself that is responsible for eliminating the viruses.
• Phytotherapy can prevent and treat symptoms that affect the upper respiratory tract (cough, nasal congestion, sore throat ...).
• Plants such as echinacea, thyme, eucalyptus, pine or sage have proven action on the respiratory system.

Maria Jose Alonso Osorio Member of medicinal plants and homeopathy of the College of Pharmacists of Barcelona