Flu – treating the symptoms the natural way

It’s the time of year when flu can sweep through the population, disrupting families and workplaces. Each year the virus manifests itself in different strains, which make it virtually impossible for the medical profession to treat effectively. For most adults, an attack of flu is a debilitating, uncomfortable and very inconvenient winter illness, which lasts between seven and 10 days.

Mother Nature has generously provided many of the ingredients needed to tackle the symptoms and speed up recovery.

Flu usually causes fever, headache, muscle aches, cold symptoms and weakness. Assuming the flu does not involve very young children, the very old or people already weakened by other medical conditions, most doctors will be reluctant to intervene with the body’s own healing powers. Normally doctors will recommend rest, plenty of fluids and “over the counter” cold & flu treatments.

But aromatherapy treatments can help ease the symptoms in a very natural way, complementing the medical profession’s approach:

Treating fever: Tea Tree & Eucalyptus essential oils have a natural, anti-viral character which can be very helpful to boost the immune system, clear congestion and speed recovery. Inhalation is the most effective method, so try putting a few drops on a handkerchief or in an aromatherapy burner or vaporiser.

Alleviating head-ache, general aches & pains: Lavender essential oil is probably an effective painkiller. Lavender can be dabbed on to the temples or used in a burner or a few drops put on the front of nightclothes. Many people feel much better after a relaxing and pain relieving lavender-scented bath before bed and it has the added advantage of inducing sleep.