Flu Home Remedies From The ‘50s You May Want To Utilize This Flu Season

A 1959 survey showed that people would opt for homemade cures first before seeking medical help or medicines. This was the case for the flu, especially since the average consumer could not access medication for it back then, so homemade remedies were the go-to.

The results from the street interview by BBC showed several methods people used to cure their flu, ranging from water to bizarre ingredients and concoctions. Some folks claimed alcohol works to “kill all the germs,” while another respondent preferred to just “work it off” without taking anything.

Responses from decades back

A woman claimed onion syrup was an effective remedy for the flu. Chopped-up onions were popularly mixed with brown sugar and vinegar and consumed before going to bed. The repulsive smell of the mixture had to be endured, but it was no match for other supposed cures like goose grease and old socks.

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A man claimed his mother used a poultice from an old, sweaty sock covered in salt around his throat and followed it with a hot water bottle. The least brow-raising advice came from a woman who simply flushed her body by drinking up to six glasses of water a day and another who drank a glass of elderflower wine before bed to cure the flu in a few days.

Flu remedies today

Flu season peaks during winter and is less prevalent in other seasons, however, it is important to protect oneself by getting an annual flu shot. According to Everyday Health, antiviral medicines like Tamiflu, Relenza, and Xofluza are effective, especially for those at high risk of flu complications.

Natural remedies include adequate sleep, herbal teas, water, chicken soup, warm showers, and Elderberry, which is believed to prevent influenza viruses from duplicating, according to Christine Ryan, RDN, a Seattle-based registered dietitian-nutritionist. Other solutions include Zinc, a neti pot for draining mucus from the nasal passages twice daily, and ultimately a visit to the doctor if symptoms persist.