subject: Cold and Flu Remedies [print this page] Cold and Flu Remedies Cold and Flu Remedies
Although there is no actual treatment behind a cold or flu, there are ways of bringing down the symptoms in order to bring temporary relief and shorten the effects of the symptoms. There are many different medications available, but the most effective way is to deal with a cold and flu properly.
It is extremely important to keep blowing your nose often when you have a cold, rather than letting the mucus back into your body. Getting rid of the mucus is one of the best things a person can do to naturally relieve symptoms. Blowing the right way is also important, as too much pressure can cause an earache, and too light does not do anything. The right way to blow your nose is to close one nostril, while blowing out of the other gently until it is clear.
Getting a lot of rest is another natural remedy. Resting is important as it gives your body enough time to fight the infections within since you are "inactive". The battle is taking place in your body the entire time which is the reason behind the fatigue. Helping the blood cells fight the infection is very important, even if you just lay down for a little bit.
Gargling is a way of moistening a sore throat and to bring temporary relief. The best thing to gargle with distilled warm water with a teaspoon of salt. Tea can also be used by such drinking it as it tightens the membranes. Using honey as a gargling liquid may be helpful. Mixing raspberry leaves or lemon juice into hot water with a teaspoon of honey is a great way of getting rid of the mucus stuck in your throat. Of course there are restrictions as to age when giving this liquid to someone. Another similar remedy is to just plainly drink lots of hot liquids to help relieve the built up congestion and prevent dehydration. Drinking plenty of hot liquids can soothe inflamed membranes in your throat and nose.
Taking a nice steamy shower clears up the passages inside. The mucus is affected by the steam and will flow a lot more easily with as little amount of pain. After a nice steamy shower it is important to take some type of menthol, eucalyptus, or camphor and breathing it into the cleared out air passages.
