Battling the Misery of Colds and Flu - Learn How Natural Remedies Can Help

Most people would give almost anything to relieve the misery cold and flu symptoms can bring. You can take over-the-counter medications, but they frequently have side effects such as making you drowsy. There are some natural remedies you can use to help relieve the symptoms of the common cold and flu.

When suffering from cold or flu, make sure that you blow your nose often instead of sniffing it back into your head. Don't blow your nose hard as this can create pressure which may lead to an ear ache.

The proper way to 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's always beneficial to get plenty of rest while you have the cold or flu as the human body needs rest in order to heal. When you conserve energy by resting, your body can then utilize that energy to heal.

Try gargling with warm salt water to moisten a dry, irritated throat. Use one teaspoon of salt and dissolve it in warm water. Use the salt-water gargle four times a day. You can also use tea that contains tannin in order to tighten the mucus membranes.

You can also make an effective gargle by steeping one tablespoon of raspberry leaves or lemon juice in two cups of hot water. Mix in 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 can help to relieve congested sinus passages and also help prevent dehydration. Warm liquids also help soothe the 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 a mentholated salve such as Vicks VapoRub under your nose to help open your nasal passage and bring easier breathing. An added bonus is if the salve contains menthol, eucalyptus or camphor which will help alleviate the pain of a nose rubbed raw by blowing.

You can apply hot or cold packs to the face over facial sinuses to help relieve pain and congestion, or use a damp, warm washcloth as a compress.

Here are several natural herbal and aromatherapy recipes to help alleviate the worst symptoms of colds and flu:

Cold and Flu Combo Tea

* 3 parts Echinacea
* 3 parts Goldenseal Root
* 2 parts Pau D Arco
* 2 parts Peppermint leaf
* 2 parts Mullein
* 1 part Ginger Root

Directions

Combine all of the Herbs together. Place 2 Tablespoons of mix in jar that can be completely covered. Pour 6 ounces of hot water over the Herbs and seal. Steep for 10 to 15 minutes. Strain Herbs. Drink 1 cup 3 times a day. Inhale the tea to relieve sinus congestion.

Eucalyptus Chest Rub

* 40 drops essential oil of Eucalyptus
* 10 drops essential oil of Camphor
* 2 drops essential oil of Wintergreen
* 1 drop essential oil of Thyme
* 1 ounce Olive Oil
* 1/2 teaspoon Beeswax

Preparation: Add the Beeswax to the Olive Oil and heat until the Beeswax is melted. Use very low heat or a double boiler to prevent burning the oil. When the wax is melted, remove the oil from the heat then add the essential oils and stir to blend.

When the mixture is cool it is ready to use. You can make this using only the Eucalyptus oil if preferred. To use rub a small amount on the chest as needed to relieve congestion.

Cold Combat With Essential Oils

* Orange, - 20 drops
* Eucalyptus - 10 drops
* Juniper berry 10 drops
* Pine Needle - 10 drops
* Basil - 6 drops
* Rosewood - 6 drops
* Ginger - 4 drops

Blend all together and us in a Diffuser or a few drops in 1/4 cup of Epsom Salts added to a bath. You can also place a few drops on a kleenex and insert into your pillow case before bedtime. (This Recipe From Aromatherapy for Vibrant Health and Beauty by Roberta Wilson)

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