Seasonal flu is a common infectious disease that can lead to serious complications if not prevented or treated promptly. According to traditional medicine, seasonal flu is referred to as “epidemic febrile disease” or “warm pathogen,” often peaking at the end of winter and early spring. While most flu cases last from 2-7 days and resolve on their own, the risk of complications remains, especially for those with weakened immune systems. This article will guide you on how to use traditional medicine methods to effectively prevent the flu.
Causes and Mechanisms of Flu in Traditional Medicine
According to traditional medicine theory, the main cause of seasonal flu is the invasion of “epidemic factors.” These are external pathogens that spread quickly within communities, especially during seasonal transitions or unusual weather conditions. The primary target of the flu virus is the “lung” system (respiratory system), with disease characteristics classified as “damp toxicity” – related to humid environments.
The severity of the illness depends on an individual’s “righteous energy” – or natural immunity. When “righteous energy” weakens, elements such as heat, dampness, and phlegm can combine to create various forms of illness, ranging from mild to severe.
Herbal room fumigation helps prevent fluHerbs like ginger, lemongrass, and bồ kết not only purify living spaces but also help boost immunity.
Using Herbal Room Fumigation to Prevent Flu
One of the simplest and most effective ways to prevent the flu is by fumigating rooms with herbs rich in essential oils. Common medicinal herbs include: lemongrass, lemon, cinnamon, pennyroyal, pomelo, tea tree, fresh ginger, perilla, purple perilla, and bồ kết. You can also use essential oil extracts derived from these herbs.
How to Perform
- Prepare herbs: Choose one or combine multiple herbs, using 100-400g of each depending on the room size.
- Boil: Place the herbs in a pot, cover them with water, close the lid, and simmer over low heat for about 30 minutes.
- Diffuse essential oils: Open the pot lid to allow steam saturated with essential oils to diffuse throughout the room, then keep the room closed for about 20 minutes.
- Repeat regularly: Perform twice daily, in the morning and afternoon.
Note: Avoid fumigating rooms with children under 30 months, individuals allergic to herbs, or those with a history of seizures due to high fever.
Nasal and Throat Inhalation – Reducing Infection Risks
Nasal and throat inhalation is a helpful method to reduce the risk of viral flu infection in its early stages. Herbs containing essential oils such as betel leaves, guava leaves, tea leaves, five-colored flower leaves, eucalyptus leaves, garlic, lemongrass, bồ kết, and ginger can be used. For essential oils, options like eucalyptus, peppermint, or lemongrass are recommended.
Instructions
- Boil water along with the chosen herbs or essential oils.
- Cover your head with a towel and inhale the steam for about 15-20 minutes.
- Steam inhalation helps neutralize viruses in the nose, mouth, throat, and even lungs before they enter the bloodstream.
Additionally, you can use decocted water from Vietnamese balm to rinse your mouth twice daily or clean your nose with saline solution daily.
Boosting Immunity – The Key to Flu Prevention
In addition to using traditional medicine methods, strengthening immunity plays a crucial role in flu prevention. Some recommendations include:
- Eating a balanced diet and ensuring adequate nutrient intake.
- Exercising regularly to improve overall health.
- Washing hands frequently with soap, especially when in crowded places.
- Wearing masks outdoors or in public areas.
Conclusion
Although seasonal flu is not a life-threatening illness, it still poses a risk of serious complications. Applying traditional medicine methods such as room fumigation, nasal inhalation, and boosting immunity can help protect you and your family effectively. Take proactive measures today to maintain stable health!
Source: dantri.com.vn
