As the leaves turn and temperatures drop, sweaters get warmer and socks get thicker, we also become much more aware of where the closest tissue box is and which doorknobs we touch. Aside from washing our hands regularly throughout the day, we can also stock our cold and flu kits with tools like nutrition, supplements, and Homeopathy!
It’s important to first identify the differences between the common cold and the flu. While they can sometimes look similar, there are differences in how we treat them.
While both are viral respiratory illnesses, different viruses cause them and the flu usually has more severe and long lasting symptoms, which can turn into more serious conditions.
Influenza (the flu) is an acute respiratory illness that is caused by a virus. Influenza can typically begins similarly to the common cold with a sore throat, cough, and runny nose. However these symptoms are later accompanied by fever, chills, severe exhaustion and occasionally digestive disturbances. Influenza can last up to two weeks and may require medical intervention in some cases. If the illness does not improve, it can later lead to other infections such as pneumonia and bronchitis. A cold is an acute inflammatory contagious disease involving the upper respiratory tract. About 1/2 of the time colds are the result of a class of viruses called rhinoviruses. Unlike the flu, a cold tends to be rather mild and short lived. A cold benefits from proper nutrition, rest, and can be treated with homeopathy, but does not typically need medical intervention.
Homeopathy offers both prevention and treatment options for cold and flu season. While consistent year-round homeopathic care is the best way to boost our immune system, there are additional aids like Influenzinum to help reduce the chances of getting sick.
Influenzinum is a homeopathic preparation of the seasonal flu virus that can be taken to strengthen and support the immune system throughout flu season. Taken monthly, Influenzinum has been shown to provide up to 90% effectiveness in preventing the flu (source). In patients who fall ill despite taking influenzinum, symptoms tend to be shorter lived and more manageable.
Already hit with the sniffles? We can help with that too. The sooner a remedy is taken to treat a cold or flu, the more effective it can be. A flu can often be stopped within hours when treated at the initial onset of symptoms. Treating both cold and flu within the first 24 hours is the best way to bring about the quickest cure.
For cold symptoms, especially if the onset was sudden or after exposure, try taking 2 pellets of Aconite 30c twice – allow 30 minutes between doses.
For flu symptoms, take Oscillococcinum (available at most drug stores and health food stores) - follow the package directions.
If your cold has progressed beyond its initial stages or if the above options did not help, it may be helpful to speak with your homeopath to find a more appropriate remedy.
Getting you back on your feet sooner, Homeopathy reduces the severity and duration of common illnesses without side effects. After treating a cold or flu even once with Homeopathy, your body also learns how to properly respond to virus’, boosting your general immune response to keep you healthier longer!
Homeopathy is safe and effective for all. It offers cold and flu solutions for young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and anyone inbetween – because no one should have to suffer!
To learn more about using Homeopathy at Home, click here! This comprehensive course demystifies Homeopathy and teaches you about potency, dosage, and 20+ top remedies for home acutes.
For more information on how Homeopathy can help you individually, book a curiosity call with me!
