Infections are common health issues that bacteria, viruses, or fungi can cause. Symptoms of an infection can include fever, fatigue, and body aches. While over-the-counter medications are available to treat infections, natural home remedies can help alleviate symptoms. Here are some step-by-step home remedies for infections:
Garlic
Garlic has antibacterial and antiviral properties that can help fight infections.
Step-by-step: Crush a few cloves of garlic and mix them with honey. Eat the mixture up to three times a day until the infection improves. (1)
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar has antimicrobial properties that can help fight infections.
Step-by-step: Mix 1-2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with warm water and honey to taste. Drink the mixture up to three times a day until the infection improves. (2)
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Turmeric
Turmeric has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that can help reduce inflammation and fight infections.
Step-by-step: Mix 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder with warm milk or water. Drink the mixture up to three times a day until the infection improves. (3)
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Echinacea
Echinacea has immune-boosting properties that can help fight infections. Step-by-step: Steep echinacea tea bags in hot water for 5-10 minutes. Drink the tea up to three times a day until the infection improves. (4)
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Salt Water Gargle
Salt water gargling can help soothe a sore throat and alleviate infections.
Step-by-step: Mix 1 teaspoon of salt with warm water. Gargle the mixture in your throat for 30 seconds and spit it out. Repeat the process up to three times a day until the infection improves. (5)
Disclaimer: While these home remedies can help alleviate infection symptoms, it is important to consult a healthcare professional if the infection persists or worsens.
Sources
(1) Bayan, L., Koulivand, P. H., & Gorji, A. (2014). Garlic: a review of potential therapeutic effects. Avicenna journal of phytomedicine, 4(1), 1–14.
(2) Johnston, C. S., & Gaas, C. A. (2006). Vinegar: medicinal uses and antiglycemic effect. Medscape general medicine, 8(2), 61.
(3) Jagetia, G. C., & Aggarwal, B. B. (2007). “Spicing up” of the immune system by curcumin. Journal of clinical immunology, 27(1), 19-35.
(4) Shah, S. A., Sander, S., White, C. M., Rinaldi, M., & Coleman, C. I. (2007). Evaluation of echinacea for the prevention and treatment of the common cold: a meta-analysis. The Lancet. Infectious diseases, 7(7), 473–480.
(5) Chao, Y. Y., Wu, B. P., Li, W. C., & Li, C. Y. (2019). Effects of Salt Water Gargle on the Symptoms and Duration of Upper Respiratory Tract Infections: A Randomized Controlled Trial. The Journal of alternative and complementary medicine, 25(3), 328-334.
