Okay let’s have a show of hands: how many of you have already experienced the delight that is the flu this month? The constant sneezing, the blocked nose, the constant headaches, the voice change that makes you want to apologize to people for even listening to you speak… we’ve all been there haven’t we? The occupants of Casa Nallamalli have just begun to recuperate from this mess which gave me the idea to write this article in the first place. You see, as a human with weak lungs, I’ve had to suffer this nonsense far more than what should be allowed. And now, having slain this formidable monster myself and carrying the wounds of war i.e. a sore throat, I have decided to impart the years of wisdom I have gained.*cue celebration*

Warning: Now, it goes without saying that I am NOT a doctor or a physician. What I recommend below are just tips and tricks I’ve learnt over the years which will help you get better at a faster rate. I am in no way suggesting that these trick replace any medicines that your doctor has prescribed to you.

So, my dear student, *stroking non-existent beard*, shall we begin?

Part 1: The drier-than-Sahara throat:

This is usually the very first indication of the absolute hell that your life will become for the next few days. It’s so deceptively innocent really, a parched throat. You feel it, and reach for the water, and yet, it’s just not enough. Your throat still feels like a desert and you end up drinking the whole bottle. This is really when the warning bells should be ringing in your head.

What you can do: Honestly, accept the fact that the flu is coming. It is inevitable. Finish any work you are supposed to do for the next few days. Seriously, don’t procrastinate. Your future self will love you for it.

Part 2: The big green slimy monster (It’s gonna get gross folks):

Oh boy, how I wish we could just skip this part. This is the part where your nose runs like it’s competing in the Olympics. Remember the big green monster I mentioned earlier? Yeah it’s here and it wants to recruit you into its army of sneezing, slimy soldiers.

What you can do: If possible, take the day off. This really is the worst part of the process and you will need all your strength to fight it. Also, I know this will sound gross but I have to say it. Spit it out! Blow your nose! We all have this habit of forcing the slime back into our noses and thinking it’s clear but seriously, the longer it stays in your body, the worse it’s gonna get. So get all the nasty stuff out of your system whenever you can.

Part 3: How does that tongue-twister go again?

You know the one I’m talking about:”Khadak singh ke khadakne se khadakti hai khindkiyan” Well, your cough might not be as formidable as Mr.Singh’s here, but you never know… you might end up scaring your poor friend into hiding under the table. Of course, I’m not saying this based on my experiences, nope, not at all… *whistles inconspicuously*

What you can do: Warm liquids are your new best friends. Soups and teas are wonderful and they really help to soothe your poor throat.

And because I am a very nice Hufflepuff, I will now share a recipe which is truly a magical elixir. Think of it as a power-up potion if you will. It’s ridiculously easy to make and the best part: this recipe is known as “Divya Chaaru” in my family. Yes, I have a recipe named after me. Wouldn’t you?

Divya Chaaru:

Ingredients:

  • Water – 2 cups
  • Salt – to Taste
  • Turmeric – 1/4th
  • Tamarind – 1 spoon
  • Dried red chillies – 4 to 5
  • Coriander powder – ½ tbsp.
  • Cumin powder – ½ tbsp.
  • Pepper powder – ½ tbsp.
  • Garlic (Crushed) – 2-3 cloves

 

Instructions:

  • Add all of the ingredients in a bowl and boil it for 5-7 minutes
  • Put it aside to settle. Remove the tamarind residue at the bottom but make sure the garlic stays
  • Add some tadka if you want to (Please do. It tastes so much better)
  • There’s two ways you can consume this: Either mix it into some soft rice or if you are hardcore like me, heat it to a temperature you can handle and drink it from a glass directly.

That’s it! Now go forth and conquer this demon!

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