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Updated: Nov 30, 2024

11 Herbal Tinctures For Flu

herbal tinctures for flu

Herbal tinctures can be a great way to help alleviate flu symptoms.

These tinctures are made from plants that have natural healing properties, which is why they're so effective. Let's take Echinacea purpurea and Echinacea angustifolia as examples. Both of these herbs have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce fever and body aches. They also have immune-boosting properties, which can help fight off the infection. Another herb that's often used to help with flu is Sambucus nigra, also known as elderberry. It has antiviral properties that can help stop the flu virus from spreading. This can help reduce the severity and duration of the flu.

When you take an herbal tincture, the active compounds from the plant are absorbed into your bloodstream, where they can start working to help your body feel better. One of the benefits of using herbal tinctures is that they can be more effective than traditional medications. This is because they work with your body, rather than just masking symptoms. They can also help to boost your immune system, so you're less likely to get the flu in the first place. Additionally, herbal tinctures are often free from harsh chemicals and additives, making them a safer choice for people who are sensitive to these types of ingredients. When you take an herbal tincture, you can expect to feel relief from your flu symptoms within a few hours. Your fever may come down, your body aches may decrease, and you may feel more energized. This can make it easier to rest and recover from the flu, which is essential for your body to heal.

By using herbal tinctures, you can take control of your health and start feeling better sooner.

This article explains in detail what are the best herbal teas for flu and wh.

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1. Echinacea purpurea

Echinacea purpurea herbal tinctures for flu

Echinacea purpurea tinctures contains flavonoids, alkylamides, and glycosides.

These compounds have anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties that help combat flu symptoms. Alkylamides, specifically, have been shown to stimulate the immune system, increasing the production of white blood cells that fight off the flu virus. Flavonoids, like kaempferol and quercetin, possess antioxidant properties that can reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.

By modulating the immune response and reducing inflammation, Echinacea purpurea tinctures can help alleviate flu symptoms and support recovery.

  1. Gather 1 cup of Echinacea purpurea roots and flowers, and 2 cups of 80 proof vodka in a clean glass jar.
  2. Add the Echinacea mixture to the jar, making sure they are completely covered by the vodka.
  3. Seal the jar and store it in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar daily.
  4. After 2-3 weeks, strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into another clean glass jar, discarding the solids.
  5. Store the Echinacea tincture in the fridge and use 20-30 drops in a cup of water or tea when you feel flu symptoms coming on.

2. Echinacea angustifolia

Echinacea angustifolia herbal tinctures for flu

Echinacea angustifolia tinctures contains alkylamides, glycosides, and phenolic acids as its bioactive constituents.

These compounds work together to boost the immune system, reducing the severity and duration of flu symptoms. Alkylamides, in particular, have anti-inflammatory properties that help to reduce the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, which contribute to the flu's severity. Glycosides, such as echinacoside, have antiviral properties that help to inhibit the replication of the flu virus.

The phenolic acids in Echinacea angustifolia tinctures also have antioxidant properties that help to protect the body from oxidative stress caused by the flu.

  1. Gather 1 cup of fresh or dried Echinacea angustifolia roots. You can buy this from a health store or online.
  2. Use 1:5 ratio to prepare the tincture. This means 1 part of roots to 5 parts of vodka or high-proof spirit.
  3. Combine 1/2 cup of roots with 2 1/2 cups of vodka in a clean glass jar. Close the lid tightly.
  4. Store the jar in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks. Shake the jar every day to help the roots release their goodness.
  5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass bottle. Discard the roots and store the tincture in a cool, dark place.

3. Sambucus nigra

Sambucus nigra herbal tinctures for flu

Sambucus nigra tinctures contains bioactive constituents like flavonoids, anthocyanins, and phenolic acids.

These compounds have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help combat the flu virus. The flavonoids, particularly rutin and quercetin, have been shown to inhibit the replication of flu viruses and reduce inflammation in the respiratory tract. The anthocyanins, responsible for the dark color of elderberries, have antioxidant properties that help protect against oxidative stress and damage caused by the flu virus.

By reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, Sambucus nigra tinctures can help alleviate flu symptoms and support the body's natural recovery process.

  1. Gather 250ml of 80% Vodka and 250g of fresh or dried Sambucus nigra flowers.
  2. Combine the flowers and vodka in a clean glass jar, making sure the flowers are fully covered.
  3. Store the jar in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar daily.
  4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar, discarding the solids.
  5. Label the jar with the date and contents, and store it in a cool, dark place. Take 10-20 drops of the tincture in water 2-3 times a day as needed.

4. Glycyrrhiza glabra

Glycyrrhiza glabra herbal tinctures for flu

Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures contains glycyrrhizin, a triterpenoid saponin that has anti-inflammatory properties.

It also contains flavonoids and phenolic acids, which have antioxidant properties that help to reduce oxidative stress in the body. Glycyrrhizin and other compounds in Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures have been shown to have antiviral and immunomodulatory effects, which can help to boost the body's immune system and fight off flu viruses. The tincture's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties can also help to alleviate symptoms such as fever, cough, and sore throat associated with the flu.

By reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, Glycyrrhiza glabra tinctures can help to support the body's natural defenses and promote recovery from flu.

  1. Gather 1 cup of dried Glycyrrhiza glabra root, 2 cups of 80% ethanol, and a clean glass jar.
  2. Combine the dried root and ethanol in the glass jar. Stir well to make sure the root is covered.
  3. Seal the jar and let it sit in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks. Shake the jar every day.
  4. After 2-3 weeks, strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar.
  5. Discard the solids and store the tincture in a cool, dark place. Use 20-30 drops of the tincture, 3-4 times a day, to help alleviate flu symptoms.

5. Eucalyptus globulus

Eucalyptus globulus herbal tinctures for flu

Eucalyptus globulus tinctures contains essential oils like eucalyptol, α-terpineol, and limonene.

These compounds have decongestant and anti-inflammatory properties that help relieve congestion and reduce swelling in the throat and nasal passages. Eucalyptol, in particular, acts as a bronchodilator, making it easier to breathe and recover from flu symptoms. The antimicrobial properties of eucalyptus tincture also help combat infections, reducing the severity and duration of flu.

The expectorant properties of α-terpineol and limonene help loosen and clear mucus from the lungs, further aiding in the recovery process.

  1. Get 1 cup of Eucalyptus globulus leaves and clean them with water.
  2. Use 1 cup of vodka as a solvent and mix it with the Eucalyptus leaves in a glass jar.
  3. Steep the mixture for 2 weeks in a cool, dark place, shaking the jar every day.
  4. Strain the mixture and discard the leaves. Use cheesecloth or a coffee filter to get a clear liquid.
  5. Store the Eucalyptus globulus tincture in a dark glass bottle and take 20 drops, 3 times a day, as needed to relieve flu symptoms.

6. Zingiber officinale

Zingiber officinale herbal tinctures for flu

Zingiber officinale tinctures contains compounds like gingerols and shogaols, which are responsible for its medicinal properties.

These bioactive constituents have anti-inflammatory and antiviral effects, making them useful in treating flu symptoms. The active compounds in ginger, such as gingerol, help reduce inflammation in the body, which can alleviate symptoms like fever and body aches. Additionally, shogaols have been shown to exhibit antiviral properties, which can help combat the virus that causes the flu.

By reducing inflammation and inhibiting the virus, Zingiber officinale tinctures can help alleviate flu symptoms and support the body's natural recovery process.

  1. Gather ingredients: 1 cup of fresh Zingiber officinale roots, 2 cups of 80-proof vodka, and a clean glass jar.
  2. Chop the ginger roots into small pieces and pack them into the glass jar.
  3. Pour the vodka over the ginger, making sure the roots are completely covered.
  4. Seal the jar and store it in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar every day.
  5. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into a clean glass bottle, discarding the solids.

7. Ginkgo biloba

Ginkgo biloba herbal tinctures for flu

Ginkgo biloba tinctures contains flavonoids, terpenoids, and bilobalide, which are active constituents that help fight the flu.

The flavonoids, such as quercetin and kaempferol, have anti-inflammatory properties that reduce swelling and fever. The terpenoids, including ginkgolides A and B, work as antiviral agents, preventing the flu virus from spreading and replicating. Bilobalide, a sesquiterpene lactone, helps to thin mucus and make it easier to expel, relieving congestion and cough.

By targeting these different aspects of the flu, Ginkgo biloba tinctures can provide relief from symptoms and support the body's natural recovery process.

  1. Gather 1 cup of fresh or dried Ginkgo biloba leaves. Clean and dry them.
  2. Combine the Ginkgo leaves with 2 cups of vodka in a clean glass jar. Stir well.
  3. Let the mixture sit in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar daily.
  4. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean jar. Discard the solids.
  5. Store the tincture in the fridge and use 20-30 drops, 3-4 times a day, to help relieve flu symptoms.

8. Echinacea pallida

Echinacea pallida herbal tinctures for flu

Echinacea pallida tinctures contains a high concentration of alkylamides, phenylethanoid glycosides, and polysaccharides, which are responsible for its medicinal properties.

The alkylamides in Echinacea pallida tinctures have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce the severity of flu symptoms. The phenylethanoid glycosides have immunomodulatory effects, which means they can help regulate the immune system and prevent infections. The polysaccharides in Echinacea pallida tinctures can stimulate the production of white blood cells, which are necessary for fighting off infections.

By taking Echinacea pallida tinctures, you may be able to alleviate flu symptoms and recover faster.

  1. Gather 1 cup of fresh or dried Echinacea pallida roots. Clean and chop them into small pieces.
  2. Combine the chopped roots with 2 cups of 80% vodka in a clean glass jar. Make sure the roots are fully covered by the vodka.
  3. Steep the mixture in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking the jar daily. This will help the roots infuse into the vodka.
  4. After the steeping period, strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar. Discard the solids.
  5. Store the tincture in a cool, dark place. Use 20-30 drops, 3-4 times a day, as needed to help alleviate flu symptoms.

9. Allium sativum

Allium sativum herbal tinctures for flu

Allium sativum tinctures contains active constituents like allicin, sulfur compounds, and vitamins.

These compounds have antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties that help combat flu viruses. Allicin, a key component, has been shown to inhibit the replication of influenza viruses, making it harder for the flu to spread in the body. The sulfur compounds in Allium sativum tinctures also have antiviral properties, which help reduce the severity and duration of flu symptoms.

By using Allium sativum tinctures, individuals may be able to alleviate flu symptoms and support their immune system.

  1. Gather 1 cup of fresh Allium sativum (garlic) cloves and 2 cups of 80% ethanol (vodka or rum work too).
  2. Peel and chop the garlic cloves. Use 1 tablespoon of chopped garlic for every 2 tablespoons of ethanol.
  3. Combine the chopped garlic and ethanol in a clean glass jar. Stir well and seal the jar.
  4. Store the jar in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks. Shake the jar every day to help the ethanol extract the garlic's properties.
  5. Strain the mixture through a cheesecloth or coffee filter into another clean glass jar. Discard the solids. Use the tincture as needed to help relieve flu symptoms.

10. Thymus vulgaris

Thymus vulgaris herbal tinctures for flu

Thymus vulgaris tinctures contains the active compounds thymol and carvacrol, which have antimicrobial properties.

These compounds help to fight off the influenza virus by disrupting its cell membrane and preventing replication. Thymol also has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce the severity of flu symptoms such as congestion and fever. Additionally, thymol and carvacrol have antioxidant properties, which can help to protect the body from oxidative stress caused by the flu virus.

By targeting multiple aspects of the flu virus, Thymus vulgaris tinctures can help to alleviate symptoms and support the body's natural recovery process.

  1. Gather 1 cup of fresh Thymus vulgaris leaves and 2 cups of 80% vodka in a clean glass jar.
  2. Place the Thymus vulgaris leaves in the jar, making sure they are completely covered by the vodka.
  3. Seal the jar and store it in a cool, dark place for 2-3 weeks, shaking it every day.
  4. Strain the liquid through a cheesecloth into another clean glass jar, discarding the solids.
  5. Store the tincture in a cool, dark place and take 20-30 drops, 2-3 times a day, when you feel flu symptoms.

11. Panax quinquefolius

Panax quinquefolius herbal tinctures for flu

Panax quinquefolius tinctures contains the bioactive constituents ginsenosides, particularly ginsenoside Rg1 and Rb1, which have anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce the severity of flu symptoms.

These compounds also have antiviral properties that inhibit the replication of the influenza virus, making it less likely to cause infection. Additionally, the tincture contains ginsenosides that act as antioxidants, neutralizing free radicals that can damage cells and make you feel worse when you have the flu. Ginsenosides in Panax quinquefolius tinctures also have immunomodulatory effects, which help regulate the immune system and prevent overactive responses that can lead to complications.

By reducing inflammation, inhibiting viral replication, neutralizing free radicals, and regulating the immune system, Panax quinquefolius tinctures can help alleviate flu symptoms and support recovery.

  1. Gather 1 cup of dried Panax quinquefolius root, 2 cups of vodka (80 proof), and a clean glass jar with a lid.
  2. Combine the dried root and vodka in the glass jar. Make sure the root is completely covered by the vodka.
  3. Seal the jar with the lid and store it in a cool, dark place. Shake the jar every day for 2 weeks.
  4. After 2 weeks, strain the liquid through a cheesecloth or a coffee filter into another clean glass jar. Discard the solids.
  5. Store the tincture in a cool, dark place and use 20-30 drops, 2-3 times a day, as needed to help relieve flu symptoms.

FAQ

Can drinking herbal tea prevent flu from forming?

Drinking herbal tea may help boost your immune system and reduce the severity of flu symptoms.

Some teas, like peppermint and ginger, have anti-inflammatory properties that can ease congestion and soothe a sore throat.

However, the tea's effectiveness in preventing the flu is still unclear and may vary from person to person.

Is it safe to consume herbal teas for flu every day?

While herbal teas may help alleviate flu symptoms, consuming them daily isn't entirely safe.

Some herbs can interact with medications or worsen conditions like high blood pressure or allergies.

It's essential to be aware of the potential risks and use moderation when drinking herbal teas for flu relief.

How long does it take for herbal teas to show results in flu?

Herbal teas can help alleviate flu symptoms, but the time it takes to show results varies. Some people feel relief from a sore throat or cough in a few hours, while others may notice improvements in energy levels or a reduced fever in a day or two.

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