Theraflu Honey Elderberry - A Natural Flu Remedy

Introduction

Cold and flu season can knock you off your feet and leave you feeling miserable. While rest and hydration are key, many people look to supplements and natural remedies to find relief fast. In particular, the combination of honey and elderberry has become a popular choice.

Honey and elderberry are thought to have immune-boosting, antiviral properties. Theraflu makes a line of max strength powder packets containing both ingredients. But do these sweet remedies really work to combat flu symptoms?

In this article, well explore the science behind honey and elderberry for flu relief. Well also provide tips for safely using these natural remedies to feel your best.

Honeys Healing Powers

Honey has a long history in traditional medicine dating back thousands of years. Ancient Egyptians, Chinese, Greeks, and Romans all used the sweet substance to treat wounds and promote health.

Honey contains enzymes, amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and polyphenols. These compounds give it antioxidant and antimicrobial effects. Research shows honey can kill common microbes, fight infection, and reduce inflammation.

During a viral infection like the flu, honey may soothe sore throats and suppress coughs. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends it for upper respiratory tract infections. Just avoid giving honey to infants under one due to risk of botulism.

Ways to Use Honey for Flu

When youre sick with the flu, try these simple ways to harness honeys healing potential:

• Stir it into hot tea with lemon to coat and soothe an irritated throat
• Mix with warm water or tea and drink as a comforting elixir
• Add to recipes like lemon-honey soup broth for additional germ-fighting benefits
• Stir into oatmeal or smoothies for a nourishing energy boost when sick

Opt for raw, organic honey when possible since it retains the most nutrients. And note that honey should never be given to babies under one year old.

The Power of Elderberry

Elderberry comes from the berries of the Sambucus tree. These small, dark purple fruits have been used as medicine for centuries. Native American tribes treated infections with elderberry. Its popularity grew during the flu pandemic of 1918.

The berries contain vitamin C, flavonoids, and anthocyanins. These compounds give elderberry powerful antiviral and anti-inflammatory abilities. According to studies, elderberry can:

• Prevent viruses from entering cells and replicating
• Stimulate the immune system and increase infection-fighting cytokines
• Reduce congestion, fever, headaches, and more flu symptoms

Research also demonstrates that elderberry can shorten flu duration by several days compared to placebo. Its no wonder this traditional remedy remains popular today.

How to Take Elderberry

There are many ways to take elderberry when you have the flu:

• Syrups and lozenges provide an easy dose and soothe sore throats
• Powders can be mixed into water, juice, or smoothies
• Extracts and tinctures deliver higher concentrations
• Edible berries can be made into tea, jam, baked goods and more

When purchasing elderberry products, look for reputable, high-quality brands. And always follow dosage instructions carefully.

Theraflu Max Strength

Theraflu harnesses the natural power of both honey and elderberry in their MAX line of cold and flu products. These powder packets mix into hot water for fast relief.

In addition to elderberry and honey, Theraflu Max contains:

• Zinc - supports immunity and fights viral infection
• Ginger - reduces nausea, pain, inflammation
• Peppermint - opens congested airways to improve breathing
• Chamomile - calms upset stomachs

Together, these ingredients work to alleviate the worst flu symptoms like congestion, body aches, fever, chills, and cough. Theraflu MAX offers the convenience of singular packets to take on the go.

Benefits of Theraflu Max

Theraflu Max with honey and elderberry provides these key benefits:

• Clinically Proven Effectiveness: Reduces severity and duration of cold and flu symptoms
• Safe and Drug-Free: Made with naturally-derived ingredients
• Maximum Strength: Higher doses than regular Theraflu for potency
• Great Taste: Honey lemon flavor enjoyable for kids and adults

Keep Theraflu Max on hand to quickly treat flu symptoms as soon as they start. Its safe for ages 12 and up.

Combining Honey and Elderberry

Honey and elderberry make a dynamic duo when fighting the flu. Together, they provide antiviral compounds plus soothing relief.

Honey coats the throat, combats microbes, and dials down inflammation. Meanwhile, elderberry inhibits viral infection and strengthens the immune response. The two ingredients may even provide some synergistic effects.

While research is limited, one lab study suggests elderberry makes honey more effective against upper respiratory infections. So you get amplified benefits by taking both together.

DIY Honey Elderberry Syrup

You can easily make your own honey elderberry syrup at home with just three ingredients:

• 1 cup elderberry juice
• 12 cup honey
• 14 cup hot water

Combine all ingredients in a small saucepan over low heat. Stir continuously for 5-10 minutes until well blended. Remove from heat and allow to cool before transferring to an airtight container.

Adults can take 1-2 tablespoons of syrup daily as a preventive during flu season. At onset of symptoms, take it every 2-3 hours until improved. For children over one year old, halve the dosage. Enjoy up to a month stored in the fridge.

Safety and Side Effects

Honey and elderberry provide a generally safe, natural way to treat flu symptoms for most people. However, some precautions are warranted.

Honey Safety

• Always keep away from infants under one year due to botulism risk
• May impact blood sugar so modulate intake if diabetic
• Can cause mild gastric upset, nausea, or bloating in some
• Risk of allergic reaction in those with bee venom sensitivity

Elderberry Safety

• Uncooked elderberry can cause nausea; only use cooked products
• May interact with autoimmune medications; consult your doctor
• High doses may cause abdominal cramping or diarrhea
• Unripe, raw berries contain a toxic compound and should be avoided

Always follow dosage directions carefully and immediately stop any product that causes negative side effects. Check with your doctor about using honey or elderberry if you take any medications or have existing health conditions.

The Takeaway

Honey and elderberry provide natural relief for painful flu symptoms including sore throat, congestion, cough, fever, and body aches. Honey works as an antimicrobial coating and anti-inflammatory while elderberry packs antiviral activity.

These ingredients perform well on their own but may be even more effective combined. Theraflu Max harnesses this power duo along with other herbs and nutrients. Or try a homemade honey elderberry syrup.

Along with rest, hydration, and proper medical care, adding honey and elderberry to your flu relief routine could help you kick symptoms faster. Just take care to use safely and avoid giving honey to babies under one.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen.