Tips for those with liver disease on how to manage the flu

Although vaccinations are currently available for seasonal flu and swine flu, many people are still getting sick. So, liver support.com provided six natural approaches to fight the flu, which is especially helpful for those with compromised liver health (who are more susceptible from having health complications related to the flu).

For those with liver disease, deciding how to best manage the flu can be especially challenging. Unfortunately, those with liver disease may not fare as well taking traditional cold and flu medicines. This is because some over-the-counter cold and flu medicines contain acetaminophen, which can put an additional toxin load on an already compromised liver. In addition, many people prefer to use natural solutions instead of dealing with the side effects inherent to most drugs.

Since having a chronic underlying illness like liver disease increases complications from the swine flu, getting rid of this particular virus safely and swiftly is vital. There are several things someone with liver disease can do to recover, and these natural approaches can safely help many people manage the flu:

1. Gargle – Gargling with salt water is a good way to ease throat pain and inflammation as well as reduce the quantity of viral particles in your throat.
2. Steam – Breathing in steam from a bowl of hot water or in a hot shower helps keep mucous membranes moist and break up congestion. Adding one drop of eucalyptus essential oil will add another dimension to clearing the sinuses.
3. Rest – When battling the flu, your body needs plenty of rest. The immune system functions much better with at least eight hours of sleep each night. When sick with the flu, the body’s daily demand for sleep is usually greater than eight hours.
4. Herbal Formulas – herbal formulas help support the immune system while simultaneously fighting viruses. Herbs help to reduce the duration of the flu and prevent complications from arising.
5. Zinc – Zinc is an excellent home remedy for the flu. This mineral increases the production of disease-fighting white blood cells and also helps these cells release more antibodies.
6. Flu Buster Tea – This concoction can easily be prepared in your kitchen. Simmer 4 – 6 pieces of fresh ginger and 2 whole garlic cloves in water for about 10 minutes. Then pour the ginger/garlic hot water over a peppermint tea bag. Add honey and lemon to taste. This home brew helps ease fevers, coughs, body aches, congestion and a sore throat.

For those whose liver is unable to process some medications, the six suggestions above can really help in managing the flu. It can also help anyone seeking natural solutions for fighting H1N1 or seasonal flu.