Top 8 foods that relieve nasal congestion

The human circulatory system has three major components the heart, blood, and blood vessels. Together they supply blood, nutrients, and hormones to different organs and parts of the body. Another important function of the circulatory system is to carry carbon dioxide and other waste products to flush them out of the body. Any disruption in this process can result in an inadequate supply of blood and nutrients and incomplete disposal of waste.

Impact of meals and lifestyle
The heart, veins, arteries, and vessels function like a mechanical unit, where a problem in one component can affect the entire process. Clogging in the veins or arteries can lead to heart failure or circulatory system dysfunction. Regular intake of certain foods can form plaque in the arteries and make them thick. This prevents the smooth flow of blood and may lead to hypertension and other complications. An unhealthy meal plan can contribute to the hardening, clotting, clogging, and tearing of blood vessels, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. 

Best nutrient sources
The ideal foods to improve blood count should be low in cholesterol and saturated fats. The meal plan should include alternatives such as trimmed meat and seafood, safe fats like mono or polyunsaturated fats, and omega-3 fatty acids. Further, it should have more fruits and vegetables, fiber, and moderate quantities of milk and dairy products. Here are some of the best kinds of foods that help improve blood circulation:

Foods with omega-3 fatty acids:  Omega-3 fatty acids are key nutrients for improving blood circulation. One can find them in plant-based foods and seafood. Doctors recommend omega-3-rich foods as they can reduce the levels of triglycerides, a type of fat. The build-up of these fats in the artery walls can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases like heart attack and atrial fibrillation. Omega-3-rich food and oils can also reduce blood pressure, plaque build, and the risk of arrhythmia. One can also opt for omega-3 supplements like fish oil if recommended by a healthcare professional.

Nitrate-rich food:  Nitrates are recognized as vasodilators, which widen the blood vessels enabling better blood flow and circulation. Nitrates can help relax the veins carrying deoxygenated blood from the body to the lungs. Leafy greens are among the best natural sources of nitrates. They also help thin the blood, allowing efficient oxygen supply in the body. Regular intake of such food can also help reduce blood pressure, lowering the risk of diseases in the circulatory system.

Vitamin-rich fruits and vegetables:  Vitamin B3 improves blood circulation and also reduces inflammation and bad cholesterol. Vitamin K prevents blood clotting, and Vitamin B12  helps in adequate production of red blood cells.

Nuts and seeds:  Nuts and seeds contain protein, omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, and L-arginine—nutrients that can reduce inflammation, the risk of clots, and blood pressure. They also help in controlling cholesterol and triglyceride levels. One can add about 4 to 6 servings of unsalted, roasted, dry nuts every week to their meals.

Top foods
Based on the essential nutrients, here are the ideal food to improve blood count and circulation:

Pomegranate
Pomegranates are rich in polyphenol antioxidants and nitrates that are considered potent vasodilators. One can have them as is or add them to salads. If one prefers juice, it is best to have it fresh without adding sugar. 

Beetroot
Beetroot and its greens are rich in nitrates. The body converts the nitrates into nitric oxide, which dilates blood vessels, allowing better blood circulation and reducing blood pressure risk. If one is dealing with gallbladder or kidney issues, they should consult a doctor about how much beetroot is good for them. One can add beets to soups, smoothies, salads, or sandwiches.

Leafy greens
Leafy greens like spinach, kale, Swiss chard, arugula, amaranth, and bok choy can replenish iron content in the blood and prevent anemia. These vegetables contain high amounts of nitrates, which help improve blood circulation.

Citrus fruits
Citrus fruits are rich in antioxidants that directly prevent and control inflammation. It can relax and reduce any stiffness in the arteries and help in proper blood circulation.

Watermelon
Watermelon has an amino acid called L-citrulline, which the body converts into another amino acid type called L-arginine. This can help dilate blood vessels and improve blood circulation.

Chinese cabbage
Chinese cabbage is rich in iron and potassium. Iron helps increase the production of hemoglobin which reduces anemia, whereas potassium helps balance sodium levels and maintain blood pressure. One can add Chinese cabbage to salads, stews, or kimchi if they are not affected by diabetes or gastrointestinal issues.

Radish
Radish is rich in calcium, potassium, and nitrates, which help regulate blood pressure and improve blood circulation.

Turnips
Turnips can improve metabolism and reduce inflammation, and their greens are rich in iron. They can also help in dilating the arteries and directly improve blood circulation. One should avoid turnips if they are dealing with thyroid-related conditions.

Walnuts and almonds
Walnuts and almonds are rich in omega-3 fats, particularly alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), that help improve blood flow. ALA also helps in maintaining blood vessel health and reducing blood pressure.

Cold water fish
Such fish is one of the richest sources of omega-3s, which can help reduce blood pressure and prevent stiffening and hardening of the arteries. One can add at least 8 ounces of fatty fish, like salmon, sardine, cod, herring, or mackerel, once or twice a week to their meals.

Flaxseeds
Flaxseeds are one of the important plant-based sources of omega-3 acids. It is also rich in fiber. Flaxseeds can reduce inflammation, unclog arteries, and regulate blood. One can toast flaxseeds and add them to salads and smoothies or use ground seeds for cookies, cakes, and yogurt.

Chia seeds
Chia seeds are rich in ALA, antioxidants, fiber, and protein and are low in carbs and calories. They can help prevent and reduce inflammation, dilate the arteries, and improve blood circulation. One can soak chia seeds in milk or water and add them to smoothies, juices, puddings, or milkshakes, and even cookies, cakes, granola, and protein bars. 

Anyone who has type 2 diabetes or has someone suffering from it knows that it can be a life-altering condition. What’s even more alarming is that many people may not recognize the symptoms (like excessive hunger and fatigue) until it’s too late. This blog post will explore some of the significant signs of type 2 diabetes to look out for. We will also discuss the preventative measures to control high blood sugar.

What is type 2 diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes is a health condition usually resulting from high blood sugar levels in the body. It occurs when the body either does not produce enough insulin or cannot use the insulin it produces effectively, leading to high blood sugar levels.

As diabetes is a progressive disease, those afflicted must regularly observe their blood sugar levels to stay healthy. They may also consult a nutritionist and receive a suitable prescription.

Getting the right treatment necessitates identifying the symptoms of diabetes (or high blood sugar). The symptoms may be subtle or harmless, like increased thirst and hunger. However, persistent symptoms, such as fatigue and vision problems, must be checked.

Early signs of type 2 diabetes that should not be ignored

The sooner a person identifies the symptoms of high blood sugar, the sooner one can build a treatment plan to follow for a healthy life. Here are the 9 common early signs and symptoms that will help you recognize the onset of type 2 diabetes and control high blood sugar.

Frequent urination

People with type 2 diabetes often experience polyuria or an increased need for urination. It’s caused by the inability of their kidneys to filter blood and transport glucose back into the bloodstream. The surplus of glucose can’t be reabsorbed in the blood, which forces additional water out. It may require frequent bathroom visits. Some people may have to get up every couple of hours at night to urinate.

Excessive thirst

Excess thirst, also known as polydipsia, is one of the classic warning signs of type 2 diabetes. One may often experience thirst that cannot be relieved by regular drinking, leading to interruptions in sleep and other activities. While increased urination due to excess sugar in the body can explain this phenomenon, increased stress levels may also impact one’s need for hydration.

High blood sugar leads to excessive thirst or dry mouth because the excess glucose forces the kidney to work harder to eliminate the excess glucose. As more fluids leave one’s body, one will feel thirsty and dehydrated throughout the day. Hence, make sure to consume plenty of water to prevent dehydration.

Frequent hunger

People with type 2 diabetes experience polyphagia, which causes extreme hunger. This is because, during high blood sugar, the body excretes glucose through urine, leading to decreased calories. To compensate for this energy loss and balance out the system, a person may experience an insatiable appetite even after eating meals.

Fatigue
Diabetes can make a person feel exhausted in two ways – when the body cannot process glucose from the blood for energy or when dehydration from excess urination sets in. The resulting fatigue can cause mood swings or irritability, eventually resulting in stress. Additionally, when blood sugar levels are too high or too low, the body does not receive enough energy to function properly. This leads to fatigue and a general lack of energy.

Vision problems

Excess blood sugar levels may damage the blood vessels in the eyes, leading to vision problems, including blurry vision, in one or both eyes. Persons with diabetes are much more likely to develop eye diseases, such as cataracts, glaucoma, or diabetic retinopathy.

Without regular monitoring and treatment, they risk developing permanent vision loss in both eyes. A dilated eye exam may detect any existing problems and avoid potentially serious complications.

Swollen or tender gums
Diabetes may make it harder for a person’s body to fight infection, which raises the possibility of infection in the bones that support the teeth as well as in the gums. If one has a gum infection before diabetes sets in, one may be at a higher risk of developing ulcers or pockets of pus in the gums, teeth becoming loose, or one’s gums pulling away from the teeth.

Numbness and tingling

Type 2 diabetes affects blood circulation and damages the nerves, preventing adequate nutrients and oxygen supply and causing a pin-pain or sensation of tingling or numbness in the hands, feet, toes, and fingers. This condition, when extreme, makes it difficult to take notice of injuries or pressure. As a result, a person may be at risk for increased tissue damage due to unnoticed issues such as burns, scrapes, blisters, or cuts.

Changes in skin

Poor circulation due to type 2 diabetes may result in dry, itchy skin and patches of hardened skin. These patches form when fluid is drawn out from the cells to create extra urine caused by too much sugar entering the system.

Delayed healing

Since diabetes can affect blood circulation, one’s body will have difficulty delivering new blood and immune cells to the wounded area. Therefore, even a mild cut or wound might take weeks or months to heal. Moreover, high blood sugar tends to weaken the immune system. It will make one more susceptible to bacterial and yeast infections, as the immune cells cannot fight against them.

Wrapping up

Early intervention for type 2 diabetes is essential for a positive outcome. Don’t wait until the symptoms become severe or troublesome to seek professional advice and treatment. Vigilant high blood sugar monitoring and proper lifestyle modifications may help reduce the symptoms of diabetes. Additionally, eating balanced meals that combine nutrient-dense foods, regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy body may help reduce one’s risk of developing diabetes.

Eczema is an inflammatory skin disease that causes blisters, scaly areas, rashes, and itchy and dry skin. Itchy skin is the most typical symptom of eczema. The seven types of eczema are atopic dermatitis, contact dermatitis, dyshidrotic eczema, nummular eczema, seborrheic dermatitis, and stasis dermatitis. Anyone, at any age, can get eczema. Symptoms typically start in early childhood and persist through adulthood. A thorough diagnosis and personalized treatment plan are the first steps toward relief.

Causes of eczema

Immune system
Your immune system overreacts to minor allergens or irritants (triggers) in your environment if you have eczema. Your immune system interprets minor irritants as dangerous foreign invaders, such as bacteria or viruses, when you come into contact with a trigger. Consequently, the triggers cause your body’s defense mechanisms to go into action. Inflammation is the immune system’s method of protection. Your skin’s eczema symptoms are brought on by inflammation.

Irritants from surroundings
Your surroundings may have many things that can aggravate your chances of developing skin diseases. Examples include breathing in pollutants, using harsh soaps, wearing wool, and using some skin care products. Your skin could feel dry and inflamed in low humidity or dry air. Sweating can be brought on by heat and excessive humidity, which can worsen itching.

Genes
If you have a family history of eczema or dermatitis, you are more likely to develop the condition. Additionally, if you have a history of allergies, hay fever, or asthma, you are at a higher risk. Pollen, pet dander, and foods that cause an allergic reaction are examples of common allergies.

Filaggrin deficiency
Additionally, there may be a hereditary component to eczema. A protein called “filaggrin” helps keep your skin moisturized; a filaggrin deficiency could result in drier, itchier skin. This can raise your likelihood of developing eczema.

Emotional causes
Your skin’s health can also affect your emotional well-being, which could escalate eczema symptoms. If you are under a lot of stress, worry, or depression, your eczema may flare up more frequently.

Symptoms associated with eczema
Atopic dermatitis symptoms may vary depending on an individual’s age, the severity of their condition, and other circumstances. Individuals with the disorder frequently go through phases when their symptoms worsen, followed by phases where they get better or even go away.
Your eczema may not present the same way as another adult’s or a child’s eczema would. Even the affected body sections may have different types of eczema at various periods.
Despite the fact that the two disorders are distinct, some people confuse the symptoms of psoriasis with those of eczema. Numerous eczema-affected people also recount hay fever, allergic asthma, and food allergy-like symptoms. Proper, consistent skin care is crucial to prevent and treat eczema.

Eczema symptoms frequently include:

• Itchiness, dryness, sensitivity, inflammation, and discolored skin
• Skin that is rough, leathery, or scaly and appears in patches
• Crusting or oozing skin
• Swelled areas
• More scaly rashes compared to those that children get
• Rashes that frequently develop in the neck, elbow, or knee creases
• Rashes that cover a larger body portion
• Skin infections

You can experience some or all of these eczema symptoms.

Diagnosis
Eczema is diagnosed by a medical professional after a physical assessment, during which they carefully study your skin. Since eczema is frequently diagnosed in youngsters, as it occurs most frequently among children, a diagnosis can be made at any age if symptoms start to appear. To confirm your diagnosis and rule out other skin diseases, your doctor can suggest tests that can include:

• Test for allergies
• Blood tests to look for other non-dermatitis causes for the rash
• A skin biopsy to differentiate between different types of dermatitis
• A patch test can identify specific allergens that cause symptoms, such as contact dermatitis-related skin allergies. An allergen is applied to a patch and placed on the skin during a patch test. Your skin will itch and inflame if the allergen triggers your eczema type.

Management options
At present, eczema has no known treatment. Healing the afflicted skin area and avoiding symptom flare-ups are the treatment goals for this disorder. These include:

• When you have dry skin, use light or sensitive skin moisturizers all day long
• moisturize your skin when it is still damp from a bath or shower
• As directed by your doctor, apply topical drugs such as topical steroids to your skin.
• To lessen itching and swelling, take oral treatments such as anti-inflammatory drugs, antihistamines, or corticosteroids
• Immunosuppressive medications aid in controlling the way your immune system works
• Light therapy to clear up blemishes and enhance the appearance of your skin
• Avoid anything that can cause skin disease triggers to flare up.

Medications

Topical creams and ointments
These anti-inflammatory drugs should alleviate the primary signs and symptoms of eczema, such as swelling and itching. They can be directly applied to the affected skin. Medication with a prescribed strength may be advantageous for some persons.

Topical calcineurin inhibitor
The immune system’s activity is decreased by this medicine. It reduces inflammation and helps avoid flare-ups.

Barrier repair moisturizers
This helps to heal the skin and stop water loss.

Antibiotics
If eczema coexists with a bacterial skin infection, doctors will prescribe antibiotics.

Antihistamines
Given their propensity to make people sleepy, these medications can lower the likelihood of midnight scratching.

Oral drugs
If topical therapies are ineffective, a doctor may prescribe oral drugs such as immunosuppressants. They should be used only for brief periods. It is also vital to remember that if a person is not currently taking another prescription for skin diseases, the symptoms may worsen after stopping them.

Biologic pharmaceuticals that are injected
These treatments stop immune system reactions by limiting immune system responses.

Phototherapy
This procedure exposes the patient to UVA or UVB rays. Mild dermatitis can be treated with this technique. The doctor will keep a constant eye on the skin throughout the course of treatment.

Thyroid cancer is the ninth most common cancer in the country. It can occur at any age and affects both men and women. While it is a relatively rare cancer, it is essential to be aware of its signs and symptoms so that it can be diagnosed and treated early. This article will cover the causes, signs, diagnosis, risk factors, treatment options, prevention, and support resources for those dealing with thyroid cancer.

Introduction to thyroid cancer
Thyroid cancer is a kind of cancer that originates in the thyroid gland, a small, butterfly-shaped organ located at the bottom of the neck. The thyroid is a unit of the endocrine system, which produces hormones that regulate several critical bodily functions. In thyroid cancer, abnormal cells in the thyroid rapidly divide and form a tumor.

There are other types of thyroid cancer, including papillary, follicular, medullary, and anaplastic. The most common type is papillary thyroid cancer, which makes up about 80 percent of all thyroid cancers. Follicular thyroid cancer is the other most common type, making up about 10 percent of cases.

Causes of thyroid cancer
There are several risk factors may increase a person’s chances of developing the disease. These include a family history of thyroid cancer, exposure to radiation, specific genetic syndromes, and a food regime high in iodine.

A family history of thyroid cancer increases a person’s risk for the disease. If a person has a parent, sibling, or close relative with thyroid cancer, their risk of developing the disease is higher.

Radiation exposure is also a risk factor for thyroid cancer. People who, in the past, have had radiation therapy to the neck or chest may be at an increased risk, as well as those who have lived in areas with high environmental radiation levels.

Specific genetic syndromes can also increase the risk of thyroid cancer. These include familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), an inherited condition that increases the risk of various cancers, multiple endocrine neoplasias (MEN) syndromes, and genetic disorders that can cause various endocrine tumors.

Finally, regularly eating foods high in iodine can also increase the risk of thyroid cancer. Iodine helps the thyroid produce hormones, and too much can lead to an overproduction of hormones, which can cause tumors to form.

Symptoms of thyroid cancer
The most prevalent symptom of thyroid cancer is a lump or nodule in the neck. These lumps are usually painless and can be felt through the skin. Other symptoms of thyroid cancer include difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, a persistent cough, and voice changes.

In some cases, there may be not be any symptoms at all. This is why knowing the risk factors and getting regular check-ups to screen for the disease is essential.

Diagnosis of thyroid cancer
If a person has symptoms that suggest they may have thyroid cancer, they will usually undergo a physical examination, imaging tests, and a biopsy.

During a physical examination, the doctor will feel for lumps or nodules in the neck. They may also order imaging tests such as an ultrasound or CT scan to get a better look at the thyroid and surrounding tissues. The doctor will usually recommend a biopsy to confirm the diagnosis if a lump or nodule is found. A tissue sample is taken from the thyroid during a biopsy and sent to a lab for testing. This is the only way to diagnose thyroid cancer definitively.

Risk factors for thyroid cancer
As mentioned above, there are several risk factors for thyroid cancer. These include a family history of thyroid cancer, exposure to radiation, specific genetic syndromes, and a food regime high in iodine.

Other risk factors include being female and having a weak immune system. Women have more chances to develop thyroid cancer than men, and those with a weakened immune systems are more likely to develop the disease.

Treatment options for thyroid cancer
The treatment of thyroid cancer depends on the type and stage of the disease. Surgery is recommended as the first line of treatment, followed by radiation therapy and chemotherapy.

Surgery is used to remove the cancerous cells from the thyroid gland. Depending on the type of cancer, the entire thyroid may need to be removed or just part of it. Radiation therapy kills any cancerous cells that may remain after surgery. It can also reduce the size of tumors and relieve symptoms.
Chemotherapy kills cancer cells that may have spread to other body parts. It is usually used in combination with other treatments.

Prevention and early detection of thyroid cancer
The best way to prevent thyroid cancer is to know about the risk factors and get regular check-ups to screen for the disease. Those with a genetic history of thyroid cancer should be vigilant and screened regularly.

In addition, limiting exposure to radiation and avoiding iodine-rich foods can help reduce the risk of developing thyroid cancer.

If you experience thyroid cancer symptoms, it is crucial to get checked out by a doctor as soon as possible. Early detection is critical for successful treatment.

Coping with thyroid cancer
Diagnosing and treating thyroid cancer can be a complex process. It is normal to feel overwhelmed and scared. It is very vital to remember that you are not alone, and many resources are available to help you cope.

Speaking to a trusted friend or family member can be a relieving way to express your feelings and get support. You can also join a support group or talk to a mental health professional.

Support resources for thyroid cancer
There are many support resources available for those diagnosed with thyroid cancer. The American Cancer Society (ACS) offers a variety of resources and support groups for those dealing with the disease.

The Thyroid Cancer Survivors’ Association (ThyCa) is another excellent resource. They offer information, support, and guidance to those with thyroid cancer.

Thyroid cancer is a relatively rare but severe type of cancer. It is very crucial to know about the signs and symptoms and get regular check-ups to screen for the disease. If you are diagnosed with the condition, it is advisable to check out potential support therapies to help deal with the psychological and emotional aspects of the disease.

After the COVID-19 pandemic began, people have started taking nasal congestion more seriously, and maintaining good health has become more of a priority to many. But it is important not to let this vigilance translate to frequent visits to the doctors. Instead, one must equip oneself with effective home remedies and develop healthy eating habits. The following are 5 remedies for cold and flu and 5 foods that will help relieve nasal congestion.

Home remedies for cold, flu, and nasal congestion
Taking a hot shower
The most obvious remedy for colds is a hot shower. Even without the flu, a warm burst of water can majorly relieve nasal congestion. Apart from washing away tiredness, inhaling the steam relieves pain and reduces pressure in the sinus, allowing a person to breathe easily for a while. If one is too tired for a hot water shower, one can use an electric facial steamer, which is more convenient. One could use a towel to cover one’s head and the steamer to increase the vapor’s concentration. 

Investing in a humidifier
Most flu-causing viruses thrive in cold, dry environments. And humid air helps soothe irritated nasal tissue. Hence, nasal inflammation can be reduced by using a humidifier or cool-mist vaporizer. Humid air also thins mucus in the sinuses and allows them to drain quickly. This health remedy is beneficial when the air is more dry in the winter season. A similar effect is produced when one takes a long hot water bath. Ensure to regularly change the water in the bathtub or humidifier to prevent fungi and mold from growing. The effects can further be stimulated by adding essential oils like eucalyptus. 

Menthol
Congested airways often dissolve when brought into close contact with menthol. Menthol is a compound from mint plants and contains antibacterial and pain-relieving capacities. Many vapor rubs contain this ingredient, and one can also use menthol essence in a humidifier. Menthol inhalation reduces coughing that is caused by environmental irritants and is effective in clearing congested sinuses. Menthol, eucalyptus, and camphor can all help improve sleep as well. 

Sleeping right
Nasal congestion often worsens at night, and thus sleeping well becomes difficult. Elevating the head can help reduce nasal congestion, so sleep with an extra pillow under the head/neck. Though it might seem like an awkward position, it can help a person sleep better, at least temporarily. Due to gravity, the mucus tends to pool or back up and not drain when one lies flat. Adding a cool-mist vaporizer to the bedroom can help thin the mucus and relieve blocked sinuses. 

Getting enough rest 
A cold or flu exhausts a person, and it is interesting to know that it is not the pathogen but rather one’s immune system that makes one tired. However, when one understands this, it is a short leap to say that rest can help one’s body gain energy to fight off the infection. Take at least a day off work and relax with a television series or soothing music. Remember to pile on the blankets and stay cozy. One can also try a warm compress to help loosen the mucus in the sinuses and breathe easier. 

Trying garlic
Despite its pungent smell, garlic is good to get used to for its cold-fighting capabilities. It contains a compound called allicin that has antimicrobial properties, which can reduce the severity of flu and cold symptoms. It is easy to incorporate into one’s daily meal plan as it is a perfect ingredient for various raw, roasted, pureed dishes, etc. Additionally, garlic also helps to improve heart health. 

Trying honey
Honey is one of the best sweeteners with a variety of antimicrobial properties. It allows the body to fight pathogens related to colds and flu. It is good to have honey to prevent it even before one develops a cold. And it is also beneficial when one does not have a cold to promote overall health and improve immunity. Stir a spoonful of honey into a cup of warm water or tea for extra flavor or to soothe the throat. The warm water also helps loosen mucus and relieve nasal congestion. 

Having chicken soup
Chicken soup is hailed as a cure-all in several households. Chicken soup provides relief when one has cold, flu or nasal congestion. When hygienically prepared at home, this hot soup, rich in nutrients, helps relieve a sore throat and stimulates nasal clearance. The protein from the chicken and vegetables provides energy to recover faster. Chicken soup has the ability to slow down the white blood cells so that they can concentrate in areas of the body that need to be healed. Adding in wholesome vegetables can also help a person regain strength faster. Low-sodium chicken soup is also a great choice to keep a person hydrated and nourished. 

Keeping the body hydrated
The body loses a lot of water when a person gets a flu or cold. Hence, it is important to consume fluids to keep the body hydrated. Gargling with warm water and salt can help remove pathogens in the throat. Adding astringents to the mix can also help reduce the irritation in the throat. It is best to drink steaming hot liquids to soothe the inflamed membranes in the nose and throat. Hot herbal tea or honey can be mixed in warm water to soothe the nose and throat. Do not drink scalding water since it can further worsen the symptoms. 

Having ginger
Ginger is another spice that is perfect for clearing nasal congestion. One can chew a few thin slices of fresh ginger or boil some pieces in water as tea to soothe the throat. It also helps relieve other health conditions’ symptoms. Additionally, ginger can reduce the nausea that accompanies the flu. Fresh ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and can boost immunity and restore health faster.