Common cold or upper respiratory tract infection is a condition caused by virus-infected airborne particles. It may also happen due to direct contact with infected particles. Many times, a cold is accompanied by fever, body ache, weakness, headache, chills, and nasal congestion.

If you or a loved one is suffering from the condition, you can try these natural remedies for cold and flu to alleviate the symptoms.

Stay hydrated
Flu may cause dehydration, so make sure you drink plenty of water and juices all day and stay hydrated. Try to avoid caffeinated drinks as caffeine is a diuretic. Honey, lemon, and ginger tea is one of the most simple and effective natural remedies for cold and flu. You can also try chamomile and peppermint tea to ease the symptoms.

Try some soup
Studies have shown that chicken soup is one of the most effective natural remedies for cold and flu. Hot soups thin the mucus, lessen congestion, soothe sore throats, and also help alleviate other symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections. The mild anti-inflammatory properties of chicken soup may also help ease symptoms.

Use mentholated salve
Dab a small amount of mentholated salve under your nose to open up breathing passages and soothe irritated skin. According to experts, the numbing ingredients in eucalyptus, menthol, and camphor are quite effective in relieving pain around the nose area.

Take good rest
It is essential to give your body some rest to help it fight the symptoms of cold and flu. Staying home and taking rest will also keep you away from allergens and pollutants that may make the condition worse.

Gargling with warm saltwater
Gargling with a saline solution helps remove excess fluid from the inflamed tissues in your throat and also reduces pain and discomfort. It loosens thick mucus, which, in turn, removes bacteria and other irritants from the throat. Gargling reduces the severity of sinus and respiratory infections and eases uncomfortable sore throat symptoms. When you are looking for natural remedies for cold and flu, this one is a must-try.

Warm compress
Use a hot pack and try a warm compress on the nose and forehead to ease symptoms of common cold and flu. You can also heat a damp cloth in the microwave for a few seconds and use it as a warm compress. Make sure the cloth is not too hot as it may burn and irritate the skin.

Eat more of infection-fighting foods
Foods rich in vitamin C will strengthen the immune system and help your body fight infections. Therefore, make sure you include vitamin C-rich foods to your diet, such as oranges, papaya, bell peppers, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, tomatoes, and sweet potatoes. You can also have mustard or horseradish to get rid of mucus from the air passages. Onions also help ease the condition by clearing bronchitis and other infections.

These natural remedies for cold and flu are quite effective and can help cure the condition at home and without any antibiotics. However, if the condition gets severe, take a doctor’s advice without delay.