Sick remedies to help you survive flu season

Photo+by+Kelly+Sikkema+from+Unsplash

Photo by Kelly Sikkema from Unsplash

Christina Terasavage, Staff Reporter

‘Tis the season to be sick! As the colder months roll in, catching the common cold from a roommate or getting the flu from that one classmate who refused to miss a day of school is becoming harder and harder to avoid. These sick remedies will give you a defensive boost to fight against pesky germs!

Lots o’ Fluids

The most suggested and obvious home remedy is to stay hydrated. Consuming fluids flushes out toxins from the body. However, not all liquids will be a saving grace! Try to cut out or limit coffee and alcohol while you are not feeling well because these liquids are dehydrating.  According to the Mayo Clinic, a nonprofit medical center that focuses on medical education and research, stick to drinking water, juices and clear broth. If you struggle to drink water, as most people do, a tasty tip is to add honey and lemon juice to warm water. It adds flavor to any otherwise boring drink.

Sleeping isn’t for the Weak

This next remedy is probably equally effective in preventing sickness: sleep! Rest is truly the best medicine. It can be hard, as a student, to balance academics and personal health. Many students feel as though they are constantly choosing between studying, sleeping or eating. However, sleeping should be a priority so that your body can heal. If you find yourself getting inadequate amounts of sleep, try to schedule a nap in your busy school day! According to Tuck.com, a website dedicated to providing resources to troubled sleepers, a 10- to 20-minute nap can help you feel refreshed after a long night.

Sinus Relief Hack

Feeling congested? Want a quick and simple way to relieve sinus pressure and congestion? Grab a pot, fill it with water and let it warm until steam is created. Next, take a towel or cloth, place it over your head and lean into the steam. According to U.S. News’ health section, breathing in the hot, moist air will loosen up the sinuses and break up congestion. Not to mention this remedy acts as an at-home steam facial! It’s a win-win.

Sippin’ Some Salt Water

A less appetizing alternative to drinking warm lemon and honey water is to gargle salt water. Take half a teaspoon of salt and mix it in warm water until dissolved, then gargle for a few seconds before spitting the mixture out. While it may not be the most appealing remedy, according to Heathline, an online health and wellness information site, gargling salt water effectively treats and relieves sore throat or inflammation, and prevents further infection!

Back to Basics

Last, but most certainly not least, is to practice good hygiene.  Cover coughs by using your elbow, keep hand sanitizer on your person and wash your hands. U.S. News also mentions that practicing good hygiene defends against germs you may be  picking up from others while preventing the spreading of your sickness.

Applying these simple, frugal remedies will prevent sickness and help you heal faster! Germs? Never heard of them!