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Influenza, commonly called the flu, is a viral respiratory infection. The symptoms - fever, chills, muscle aches, headache, fatigue, weakness, nasal discharge, cough, and hot and cold sweats - are similar to those of a cold, except that flu symptoms tend to come on more suddenly and be more severe. The fatigue and weakness associated with the flu can last for several weeks after the initial infection.

The human body can build immunity to the influenza virus, which comes in two main strains, A and B. Flu epidemics generally occur during the winter. Flu is transmitted through extremely small particles generated by coughs and sneezes. The virus begins to replicate within four to six hours of its arrival in the body, but the spread of infection sufficient to produce symptoms requires an incubation period of from 2 to 3 days. The worse the case of the flu, the more likely it is to be contagious. Medical treatment for flu consists mostly of pain relief, although some prescription medications are available.

Beneficial Herbs

Elderberry/Sambucol - Speeds Recovery from flu. Also prevents infection from flu.
Catnip - Relieves digestive problems during flu attacks.
Cayenne - Keeps mucus flowing, aiding in the preventing congestion and headaches. Add a pinch to soup or other foods.
Ginger - Relieves chest and nasal congestion, scratchy throat.

Recommendations
Take hot chicken or turkey soup. This is grandmother's orld remedy and it's still good today. Add a bit of cayenne pepper to help prevent and break up congestion.

Avoid dairy products, mucus-forming foods and sugar.

Get adequate rest. Although keeping active during a cold is a good idea, it is important to remain relatively inactive during a bout of the flu.