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Natural Remedies for treating Colds and Flu

There currently is no known cure for the common cold or for flu. Most of us would give anything to relieve the symptoms of the cold or flu when we are suffering from them. You can take over-the-counter medications but they often have side effects like making you drowsy. There are some natural remedies that you can use to help relieve the symptoms of the common cold and flu.

You should make sure that you blow your nose often instead of sniffing it back into your head. Do not blow your nose hard as this can cause pressure that may lead to an earache. The proper way to gently blow your nose is to place a finger over one of your nostrils while blowing gently to clear the other nostril. Always make sure you wash your hands afterwards to help prevent the spread of germs.

It is beneficial to get plenty of rest while you have the cold or flu. Your body needs rest in order to heal. When you conserve your energy by resting, your body can then use that energy to heal.

You can gargle to moisten your throat. Use one teaspoon of salt and dissolve it in warm water. Do the salt-water gargle four times a day. You can also use tea that contains tannin in order to tighten the membranes. You can make a gargle by steeping one tablespoon of raspberry leaves or lemon juice in two cups of hot water. Mix with one teaspoon of honey. After this mixture has cooled to room temperature you can gargle with it. Never, ever give honey to a child younger than 18 months.

Drinking hot liquids like broth, tea or soup helps to relieve the congested sinus passages and also prevents dehydration. Warm liquids also help to soothe inflamed membranes of your nose and throat.

A steamy shower will also work wonders to help moisturize your nasal passages and help you to breathe easier.

Use mentholated salve under your nose to also open your nasal passage and bring easier breathing. An added bonus is if the salve contains menthol, eucalyptus or camphor the pain of a nose rubbed raw by blowing can be relieved as these ingredients have a numbing effect on the skin.

You can apply hot or cold pack to the skin of your sinuses or use a damp, warm washcloth.