Flu (Influenza)

'Flu' is a viral infection of the upper respiratory tract. It is similar to common cold but happens to be more severe.

Signs & Symptoms

The typical symptoms include a sore throat, cough, fever, headache and aching muscles. The fever during flu is usually higher than in common cold. Similarly cough is also severe and lasts longer.

Herbal Medicines

1. Tulsi leaves in the form of infusion are highly effective or Tulsi leaves' juice can also be used in doses of 1 teaspoonful with 1 teaspoon of honey twice a day. This is a good remedy for 'flu' and cold. This can be taken as a preventive also when there is 'flu' in your city.
2. Similarly black pepper-dry ginger tea is also useful. This is generally prepared in Indian houses, during the prevalence of 'flu' and cold.
3. 1 tsp of pure turmeric powder or paste should be mixed in warm milk and can be taken 3 times a day.

Ayurvedic Remedies

Those sold over the counter for 'flu' and common cold are:

1. Trishun Tablets: 1 tab. thrice a day with a cup of tea or warm water for 7 days is a sure remedy. It is a safe formulation.
2. Trikatu Churna is a cheaper version of Trishun available in the powder form. ½ tsp to 1 tsp with hot tea. or water helps in checking the 'flu'.
3. Tribhuvan Kirti Ras is the drug of choice for flu in the dose of 1 to 2 tablets crushed and mixed with honey taken 3 to 4 times daily.
   

Do's & Don'ts

1. Avoid heavy food, sour things including curd, exposure to cold wind and water.
2. Take light food like milk, bread, kanji etc.
3. Turmeric clears the lungs, relieves constipation and activates the liver thereby speeding up recovery. GARLIC is another useful home remedy.