16 Easy Home Remedies to Alleviate Sickness Symptoms

Disclosure: Simple Is More and our authors do not receive a commission through recommended links in this content. We do not have any conflicts of interest to disclose. Please visit our editorial policy, disclaimer policy, and terms of use for more information.

When hit with sickness, sometimes home remedies provide more comfort and relief that can be the most soothing treatment while on the path to recovery.

Most of our home remedies are comfort foods or drinks that have been used for centuries to help ailing people feel better. These simple foods not only support the body’s natural healing processes but also predate many over-the-counter medications. Some of these natural items in your pantry hold the most potent remedial powers.

Integrating these foods into your diet during illness can help you recover faster and feel better, leveraging nature’s own medicine cabinet.

Chicken Soup

Chicken soup isn’t just comfort food; its benefits for relieving cold and flu symptoms are backed by science. The steam helps relieve nasal congestion, and the nourishing broth can help keep you hydrated while replenishing electrolytes (essential salts). Plus, chicken broth  is nourishing and easy to digest, which is perfect for when your stomach is uneasy.

Ginger Tea

Ginger tea is used throughout the world and is a beloved remedy for settling an upset stomach and relieving nausea. Gingerol, the active component in ginger, has powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects and is very prominent in Asian cultures for supporting health. Drinking a hot cup of ginger tea can also soothe a sore throat or help combat a cold or small infection.

Honey and Lemon

Mixing honey and lemon in hot water is a time-honored way to soothe a sore throat. Honey has antibacterial properties and can help suppress coughs, while lemon adds a hit of vitamin C. This simple concoction can boost your immune system and hydrate you when you’re feeling under the weather.

Better yet, combine these elements with ginger to create a ginger-honey-lemon tea that will not only smooth, but provide anti-inflammatory benefits.

Garlic

Garlic has been used for centuries to fight infections and boost the immune system. It contains compounds like allicin that have antiviral properties, making it effective against colds. Incorporating crushed or sliced garlic into your meals can help speed up your recovery, but it’s most effective if it’s not cooked or roasted- as it’s most effective raw.

Hot Water with Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar is a versatile home remedy that can help alleviate various symptoms, including sore throats and sinus infections. Diluting a tablespoon in a glass of hot water with a little honey can help balance your body’s pH levels.

Saltwater Gargle

Gargling with salt water can help reduce swelling and soothe a sore throat. The salt pulls the mucus out of your swollen, inflamed tissue and helps relieve discomfort. Simply dissolve a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and gargle several times a day when hit with a sore throat or signs of a cold or sinus infection.

Steam Inhalation

Inhaling steam can help relieve nasal congestion and sinus pressure. Adding a few drops of eucalyptus oil to the water can enhance the effect, as eucalyptus is known for its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. This method helps clear the airways and makes breathing easier.

Peppermint Tea

Peppermint tea is excellent for relieving digestive issues like bloating and indigestion. The menthol in peppermint acts as a natural decongestant, helping to break down mucus. It’s also soothing to drink, which can comfort you when you’re feeling sick.

Some people report that peppermint tea help promote sleepiness which could be an additional benefit is drank before bedtime.

Turmeric Milk

Turmeric milk, or golden milk, combines the anti-inflammatory benefits of turmeric with the soothing qualities of milk. The curcumin in turmeric is a potent anti-inflammatory compound that can relieve symptoms of colds and flu. Drink this warm beverage at night to help with recovery and ensure restful sleep.

Banana and Blueberries

Bananas are easy on the stomach and can help restore normal bowel function, especially if you’ve had stomach flu. They’re full of potassium, which is often depleted during bouts of sweating, vomiting, or diarrhea. Eating a banana can also help replenish lost electrolytes.

Blueberries meanwhile are packed with antioxidants and vitamins that boost the immune system. They’re also anti-inflammatory, helping to reduce the duration of cold and flu symptoms. Try adding fresh or even frozen blueberries to a smoothie or oatmeal.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is not only a delicious spice but also has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Adding cinnamon to tea or warm milk can help fight throat irritation and lower high body temperatures.

Coconut Water

Coconut water is an excellent hydration aid, essential when your body is fighting off an illness. It’s packed with nutrients and electrolytes like potassium and magnesium that help maintain fluid balance. Drink coconut water to stay hydrated, especially if you’re experiencing vomiting or diarrhea.

Aloe Vera Juice

Aloe vera juice has anti-inflammatory and laxative properties, making it good for digestion and internal healing. Drinking a small amount can help soothe the lining of the stomach and intestines, ideal for those with acid reflux or stomach ulcers. Ensure it’s decolorized and purified, as unpurified juice can be a laxative.

Sweet Potatoes

Sweet potatoes are packed with beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A to help maintain a healthy immune system. They’re easy to digest and can be a soothing meal option when you’re sick. Bake, boil or mash them to provide a comforting dish that will also have sustenance.

Lemon

Lemons are high in vitamin C, which is essential for fighting infections. Adding fresh lemon juice to hot tea can help increase your vitamin C intake while providing soothing relief for a sore throat. Lemons also help detoxify the body, promoting recovery.

Cabbage

Cabbage is rich in vitamins C and K and has anti-inflammatory properties, making it beneficial for digestion and overall health. Eating lightly cooked cabbage can help clear waste from your stomach and soothe intestinal linings. Cabbage also contains a high water content which adds hydrating benefits–crucially needed by our bodies when fighting any sort of infection.

Featured Image Credit: PeopleImages.com – Yuri A and Shutterstock