The start of flu season can be a stressful time for moms. From common cold, cough, runny noses, itchy throats, and more respiratory issues, it can feel like there's nothing we can do to protect ourselves and our families.
But the truth is, there are plenty of ways to keep our families safe and healthy from respiratory discomfort.
With all the seasonal threats in the air, we are always on the lookout for natural remedies that can give us the extra boost to stay strong all season.
Breathe easy, mama! Here are a few of my favorite hacks to keep my family safe and healthy.
Soothe Respiratory Discomfort the Natural Way
Prevent Respiratory Discomfort
Mom, the best way to protect your family from seasonal threats is to prevent them.
The basics?
- Get into the habit of washing your hands often with soap and water or using an alcohol-based cleaner.
- During flu season, steer clear of large crowds if you can.
- If you do get sick, do the responsible thing and stay home.
The bonus?
Use essential oils! I have been using doTERRA Breathe to clear the airways at home. I love making myself a steamer with breathe whenever I’m dealing with occasional congestion.
This blend hasPeppermint, Eucalyptus, and Lemon essential oils so you can really expect to breathe in the minty and fresh aroma when you diffuse it. But if your kids don't care for the menthol-y scent (I just don’t get it), you can always apply the oil blend to the bottoms of their feet for a similar effect. *wink*
Toughen up with Exercise and Detox
You already have a lot on your plate and seasonal threats should not be one of them. Do daily activities that would protect your respiratory health that do not feel like chores.
Put the fun in Exercising and Detoxing!
You don’t need to sign up for a formal exercise program to reap the benefits of physical activity. Sneak in some moderate activity into your day-to-day tasks! For example, go for a brisk walk during your lunch break, or do some gardening. Amp it up with some lung exercises, check this out to know which one you can start with the kids: https://www.lung.org/lung-health-diseases/wellness/exercise-and-lung-health
Detox and strengthen your respiratory system with foods that are great for the lungs! You don’t even have to do more prep as these can be taken as snacks like apples, yogurt, green tea, or coffee. If you need a bit more guidance, chat with your doctor for dietary tweaks.
Your home is just as important to detox as your body is. Add some plants to detox your home and make your living space flu-proof. If you need more ideas on how to level up your detox game, I already got you with these articles:
Ease Respiratory Discomfort Naturally
Despite our best efforts, things slip through the cracks, and we still end up coming down with respiratory issues. And It can be really difficult to see if our kids are the ones in pain.
Chin up, Mama! Ease their discomfort by giving them the most relaxing experience at home with natural remedies:
- Set up an air purifier. I cannot tell you how much I love our Coway Airmega. It helps us to breathe easy and keeps our bedroom clear of any pollutants and allergens.
- Diffuse essential oils. Choose oils that are useful for flu symptoms, you can consider diffusing Breathe because it is the perfect respiratory blend. I love On Guard too to give that immune system some support.
- Increase water intake, and serve warm soups. Additionally, honey is highly recommended as a remedy for coughs and other symptoms associated with URIs. Just remember honey is not recommended for kids under 1.
- I absolutely love taking Oregano oil internally (in a veggie cap, it’s intense!) or using the Oregano touch roller on the bottom of the feet. This is a great immune system boost.
If your child is suffering from a dry and itchy throat, why not try making your own natural remedies like throat drops?
This simple and easy recipe includes Lemon and Ginger oils. Not only does this homemade remedy soothe your little one's throat, but it also saves you a trip to the store!
Create your Homemade Throat Drops
Ingredients
¾ cup water
¾ cup honey
1 tablespoon ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) powder
Instructions
- Add honey to water and heat over medium heat in a saucepan until the mixture begins to boil. As the mixture is boiling, attach a candy thermometer to the pan and continue to boil until the mixture reaches 300°F.
- Reduce the heat and allow the mixture to cool for 5-10 minutes or until it has a syrupy consistency.
- Add in your Lemon and Ginger oil and stir to combine
- Dust candy mold with ascorbic acid powder and pour honey mixture into molds and allow to completely cool.
- Remove from molds and dust again with ascorbic acid powder to keep the drops from sticking together once stored.
- Store in an airtight container.
It's essential to take care of your health and stay strong all season. Don't be afraid to take a deep breath and ask your doctor how to keep your respiratory system in tip-top shape! After all, your health is nothing to sneeze at! If you need more #momhacks for natural remedies, drop a message here or connect with me on Facebook/Instagram.
Stay strong all season, Mama!
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