Influenza A: Homeopathic remedies that can help speed up recovery

And help avoid unnecessary doctors' visits

It’s flu season here in New Zealand, and I’ve been getting a ton of messages that start with: "Kirsty, I think I’ve got Influenza A. What can I take?"

I get it - because despite being a Homeopath with a plethora of remedies at home and living a healthy lifestyle - even I haven’t been immune to this particularly nasty bug.

You might be feeling achy, flattened and exhausted. Your throat could feel raw or dry, and every cough sends pain shooting through your head. You want to rest, but your body won’t settle, and all the lemon and honey drinks in the world aren’t making a whit of difference.

🤒 What Are the Symptoms of Influenza A?

While each person’s experience is unique, Influenza A often comes on suddenly and hits hard. The common symptoms include:

• Sudden high fever (often 38.5–40°C)

• Sore throat that feels raw, dry or sharp

• Fatigue and weakness that can feel overwhelming

• Headache, often behind the eyes or around the temples

• Dry or irritated cough that makes your head or ribs hurt

• Body aches and chills

• Nasal congestion or blocked ears (often worse on one side)

• Hoarseness or loss of voice

• Low appetite

• Sensitivity to noise or light

• Deep desire to rest, or sometimes agitation and restlessness

This isn’t just a heavy cold. Influenza A tends to be more intense and can take longer to fully recover from without the right support.

🌿 Homeopathic Remedies That Can Help

Homeopathy works beautifully during flu when the remedy is well-matched to your symptoms. Below are some of the most commonly used remedies for Influenza A. If one of these sounds like you, it may help your body recover faster and more peacefully.

Gelsemium

For slow onset, heavy fatigue, droopy eyes, trembling and chills.
This person often feels dull, weak, and wants to lie down in silence. The eyes may be half-closed. Headaches often sit at the back of the head. Usually not thirsty.

Bryonia

For dry, painful coughs, body aches, and wanting to stay completely still.
Everything hurts more with movement. There may be a dry mouth and strong thirst. This person is often irritable and wants to be left alone.

Eupatorium perfoliatum

For flu with intense bone pain, fever with chills and desire for cold drinks.
People needing this remedy may say “it feels like my bones are breaking.” There may also be a deep headache and a painful, rattly cough.

Belladonna

For sudden high fever, flushed face, hot skin and pounding head.
The person often looks glassy-eyed, feels heat radiating from their body, and has a sensitivity to light or noise. Symptoms tend to come on very fast.

Oscillococcinum

For early-stage flu or general support in the first 24 hours.
This is a broader remedy often used at the first sign of flu symptoms, and some find it helpful in the very early stages to reduce intensity.

Ferrum Phosphoricum

For early or mild fever, especially in children.
Use this when symptoms are vague and just beginning. It may help when there are red cheeks, slight fatigue, and a general “off” feeling without clear indications yet.

🌬️ A Note About Coughs

If your main lingering symptom after the worst of the flu is a cough, you might consider:

• Drosera – Dry, hacking cough that comes in spasms, often worse at night

• Spongia – Dry, barking cough that sounds like a seal or dog

• Phosphorus – Cough with hoarseness, desire for cold drinks and a need for company

🕊️ My Suggestions for a Gentle Flu Recovery

• Rest more than you think you need

• Stay warm and keep the air fresh with light ventilation

• Drink plenty of warm fluids like lemon water, broths and herbal teas

• Avoid heavy meals, and eat only what feels nourishing

• Take your remedy every 3 to 4 hours in the early stages, and reduce as you improve

• Reach out for guidance if you’re unsure what to take

💬 Final Thoughts

Influenza A can be intense and draining. But with the right remedy, you can feel supported, cared for and less overwhelmed. Homeopathy works with your body, not against it, and many people find it shortens the course and softens the symptoms beautifully.

If you are not sure which remedy is best for you or a family member, feel free to book a short acute consultation with me. You’re not alone this winter.

Warmly,
Kirsty