The concept of influenza , which derives from the Italian language, can be used as a synonym for influenza or influenza . The three terms refer to the same thing: an infectious and epidemic disease that manifests itself in various ways, although generally including colds and fever.
Influenza is caused by viruses that belong to the Orthomyxoviridae family. Once an individual is infected, they spread the disease by sneezing, coughing or even talking, as they unintentionally spread droplets of saliva or nasal secretions with the virus.
The distribution of influenza worldwide follows seasonal patterns, giving rise to epidemics and pandemics . In regions with a temperate climate, cases tend to multiply in winter and autumn, when people, due to low temperatures, stay longer in closed places and poorly ventilated environments, favoring infections.
In humans , influenza mainly affects the respiratory tract : the nose, throat, bronchi and, to a lesser extent, the lungs. In certain cases, it can even reach the brain or heart. The disease usually remits spontaneously after a few days, although it can cause complications that aggravate the condition.
Whoever has influenza suffers from general discomfort with headaches, muscle, joint and stomach pains. Cough and fever are also common. Treatment is usually based on rest and the administration of drugs that combat symptoms (such as analgesics and antipyretics). Antibiotics are not effective since the disorder is caused by a virus and not a bacteria .
It should be noted that, to prevent influenza or flu, there are vaccines that are given to those who are in risk groups: subjects who, due to certain factors, may suffer serious complications if they contract the disease .
Although the effectiveness of certain clinical treatments cannot be denied, it is not necessary to go to a doctor's office to cure a case of influenza. At home we can prepare different recipes beneficial to our health as well as include certain foods in our daily meals to prevent and combat this disease.
Among the most effective foods against influenza are ginger and lemon, which are usually consumed together as they form an unbeatable team against the flu and cold, among other health problems. Regarding ginger, it is a natural antibiotic that has little competition; In addition, its anti-inflammatory properties stand out, which also make it suitable for any respiratory disorder.
Lemon, for its part, is a well-known source of vitamin C, but it also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. As if this were not enough, it is a fruit that enhances the immune system. Those people who do not tolerate the pungency of these two foods or the typical itching that ginger causes if taken directly, can use a sweet product, such as cane honey, to soften it in an infusion.
As mentioned in a previous paragraph, one of the most common symptoms of influenza is cough. Without a doubt, it is also one of the most annoying, since it makes speech difficult and also damages the respiratory tract. An ideal food to combat it is onion, which has been used for centuries to treat a large number of diseases, such as the cold.
Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, we can benefit from its consumption to reduce mucus and cough. Lemon and honey are two perfect complements to onion, with which we can prepare an effective infusion . However, lovers of fresh vegetables are the ones who get the best results, since raw onion offers a faster action.