Seasonal flu is an acute respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses, according to Dr. Huynh Tan Vu, Head of the Day Treatment Unit at Ho Chi Minh City University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Campus 3. Flu is a benign illness that typically resolves on its own without leaving any sequelae, and most people can recover at home without hospitalization. In rare cases, antiviral medications may be prescribed, while others may only require symptomatic treatment, including incorporating certain easily accessible vegetables and spices into their diet to aid in recovery.
Basil, with its slightly sweet and spicy flavor, is a popular herb that can help alleviate flu symptoms such as coughing and colds.
Garlic possesses anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antiviral properties. It is also an effective immune-boosting herb that can prevent flu symptoms. Allicin, a sulfur compound found in garlic, exhibits strong antibacterial and anti-inflammatory effects, making garlic an excellent food choice for treating the flu and reducing congestion and coughing.
Ginger, with its spicy and warming properties, induces sweating, making it effective for reducing fever and soothing sore throats.
Lemongrass exhibits antibacterial properties and contains anti-inflammatory compounds, citral, and geraniol, which help alleviate coughing and soothe sore throats.
Pepper, with its spicy and very hot characteristics, is useful for expelling phlegm, treating sudden abdominal pain, cold hands and feet, vomiting, and cholera. It also has antiseptic and detoxifying properties. Using pepper to treat a cold can induce sweating, dissipating the cold from the exterior while warming the stomach and increasing internal warmth.
Cinnamon has a spicy and warming flavor. It disperses wind-cold, promotes blood circulation, and expels toxic external pathogens. Cinnamon is used to treat headaches, body aches, and joint and muscle pain associated with catching a cold. Additionally, cinnamon improves blood circulation, warms the body, aids digestion, and reduces flatulence and nausea when added to dishes.
Fennel contains essential oils and exhibits antispasmodic, expectorant, antiseptic, diuretic, and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as disinfectant qualities, which can help soothe sore throats.
Honey is also considered an antibacterial food that effectively boosts immunity. Drinking honey tea with ginger or fresh lemon juice and honey can help soothe sore throats and reduce coughing.
Additionally, European herbs such as mint, rosemary, and thyme, which are rich in essential oils, are also highly beneficial for treating the flu.
Ginger root. Photo: Freepik
According to Dr. Vu, these herbs and spices can be used in cooking as usual or prepared as tea (fresh or dried) by infusing them in boiling water. Drink this tea 2-3 times a day, consuming it hot, and taking small sips at a time. Alternatively, you can use these ingredients for facial steam inhalation or a full-body steam bath, inhaling the hot, essential oil-rich steam to open up your respiratory tract and relax.
However, individuals with hypertension should exercise caution when using spices with hot and spicy characteristics (pepper, ginger, cinnamon, and fennel) as they can elevate blood pressure. It is advisable to use smaller amounts less frequently in cooking and opt for topical applications, such as steam baths. Patients with underlying medical conditions should follow the dietary recommendations provided by their specialist.
Hospitalization for the flu is typically reserved for cases where, in addition to typical symptoms like fever and coughing, patients develop complications such as pneumonia, middle ear infections, or injuries in other locations. Severe flu complications may include encephalitis, damage to other organs, or hematological disorders like thrombocytopenia with bleeding…
High-risk groups for flu complications include young children under two years of age, the elderly over 65, patients with chronic illnesses (chronic lung disease, chronic asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), diabetics, individuals with liver, kidney, or heart conditions, pregnant women, and those with compromised immune systems. These individuals require close monitoring and regular check-ups. According to Dr. Vu, flu-related deaths primarily occur within these high-risk groups. However, it can also affect healthy individuals if the flu is not properly managed and treated.
Thu Anh
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