As the temperature continues to plunge here and in other parts of the country, more and more people are starting to get sick. A herbalist shares 5 ways to use backyard plants in treating cough, colds and flu.
If left untreated for days, cough and colds can lead to pneumonia, which can cause death, warned Dr. Lyndon Leesuy, program manager of infectious diseases of the Department of Health (DOH).
To prevent this from happening, one should drink a lot of water, eat healthy food, have enough rest, and stay away from stress to build enough resistance to diseases, he said.
Dr. Jaime Galvez Tan, herbalist and professor at the University of the Philippines College of Medicine, shared 5 tips to get rid of cough, colds and flu for those who are already sick.
Ingredients for these quick remedies make use of plants that can be easily grown in your backyard. The DOH stressed, however, that these should be accompanied by proper medical consultation to get the full effects.
Lagundi.
This shrub, endorsed by the Department of Health, is known for its cooling, antihistamine and muscle relaxant properties. Place 7 clusters of lagundi in a pot with 2 glasses of water and bring it to a boil, then drink it every 4 hours.
Alagaw.
This plant, which can only be found in the Philippines, is known for its aromatic smell. Place a handful of alagaw leaves in a pot with water and bring it to a boil, then drink it every 4 hours.
Oregano.
Place 3 to 5 leaves of this common herb in a pot of hot water for 15 minutes. Drink the resulting mixture to relieve cough and colds.
Ginger.
Cut ginger into long thin strips (julienne). One strip of ginger placed in the mouth can act as a throat lozenge.
Calamansi.
This fruit can be mixed with honey (or sugar) and water to make hot tea. Ginger may also be used to make salabat (ginger tea).Both can help prevent colds and soothe a sore throat.
