8 Tips to Treat Colds and Flu the 'Natural' Way
With no cure in sight for the cold or the flu,
over-the-counter treatments can at best bring symptom relief or shorten
the duration of those symptoms. Or you can take the natural approach.
WebMD explores some home remedies that may help you feel better along
the way.
No. 1: Blow Your Nose Often -- and the Right Way
It's important to blow
your nose regularly when you have a cold rather than sniffling mucus
back into your head. But when you blow hard, pressure can cause an earache. The best way to blow your nose: Press a finger over one nostril while you blow gently to clear the other. Wash your hands after blowing your nose.
No. 2: Stay Rested
Resting when you
first come down with a cold or the flu helps your body direct its energy
toward the immune battle. This battle taxes the body. So give it a
little help by lying down under a blanket.
No. 3: Gargle
Gargling can moisten a sore throat
and bring temporary relief. Try a teaspoon of salt dissolved in warm
water, four times daily. To reduce the tickle in your throat, try an
astringent gargle -- such as tea that contains tannin -- to tighten the
membranes. Or use a thick, viscous gargle made with honey or a mixture
of honey and apple cider vinegar, a popular folk remedy. Steep one
tablespoon of raspberry leaves or lemon juice in two cups of hot water
and mix in one teaspoon of honey. Let the mixture cool to room
temperature before gargling. Honey should never be given to children less than 1 year old.
No. 4: Drink Hot Liquids
Hot liquids relieve nasal congestion, help prevent dehydration, and soothe the uncomfortably inflamed membranes that line your nose and throat.
No. 5: Take a Steamy Shower
Steamy showers moisturize your nasal passages and
relax you. If you're dizzy from the flu, run a steamy shower while you
sit on a chair nearby and take a sponge bath.
No. 6: Apply Hot or Cold Packs Around Your Congested Sinuses
Either temperature may help you feel more comfortable.
You can buy reusable hot or cold packs at a drugstore. Or make your
own. Take a damp washcloth and heat it for 55 seconds in a microwave
(test the temperature first to make sure it's not scalding). Or take a
small bag of frozen peas to use as a cold pack.
No. 7: Sleep With an Extra Pillow Under Your Head
This will help with the drainage of nasal passages. If the angle is too awkward, try placing the pillows between the mattress and the box springs to create a more gradual slope.
No. 8: Don't Fly Unless Necessary
There's no point adding
stress to your already stressed-out upper respiratory system, and that's
what the change in air pressure will do. Flying with cold or flu
congestion can hurt your eardrums as a result of pressure changes during takeoff and landing. If you must fly, use a
decongestant and carry a nasal spray with you to use just before
takeoff and landing. Chewing gum and swallowing frequently can also help
relieve pressure.
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Remember, serious
conditions can masquerade as the common cold and a mild infection can
evolve into something more serious. If you have severe symptoms or are
feeling sicker with each passing day, see a doctor.
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I hope this information has been
of some help to you. As always, if you would like to add a thought,
question, give suggestions for another topic, or make a general
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