The terms cold and flu are usually bandied around during colder seasons, which is due to drier winter air leading to dehydrated mucous membranes not able to defend as well against some respiratory viruses. There are hundreds of different types of these viruses which is why you may catch a few each year. As if the cold dark nights aren’t bad enough!
Flu symptoms are generally more severe than colds and should be taken more seriously. Colds can last from two to seven days with different symptoms appearing during this time, whilst it’s not uncommon for flu to last more than a week.
Highly contagious
Cold and flu are highly contagious and can spread rapidly from one person to another as the virus transfers by air droplets, either by breathing or sneezing. It is advisable that if you’re infected you should stay away from children and older people who have weaker immune systems.
Common symptoms of cold and flu
- Runny nose
- Irritation in nose and throat
- Frequent sneezing
- Sore throat
- Nasal congestion and stuffiness
- Dry cough
- Fever
- Chills
- Body ache
- Fatigue
- Muscular pains
- Loss of appetite
Influenza or Flu
Influenza, commonly referred to as flu, is an infectious viral disease that mainly effects upper respiratory tract and is a more severe form of cold. It can also travel down to infect lower respiratory tract, including chest and lungs and may produce chest complaints along with nasal and throat symptoms.
Influenza is one of the most common health issues and effects almost half of the world every year. It could either be seasonal flu or it can spread from one person to another.
If untreated, flu can become more serious and lead to many other complications and health issues like pneumonia, chest congestion, ear infection and bronchitis.
9 natural remedies to ease the symptoms of cold and flu
If the symptoms are not severe then natural home remedies can work well, but if symptoms persist then you must seek professional medical advice and treatment.
Here are some natural remedies which have very soothing effects:
1. Honey
Honey is well known for boosting your immune system and is very effective against cold and flu. It has antibacterial and anti-viral properties to speed up the recovery. Simply take one tablespoon of honey with a glass of hot or cold water and drink two or three times a day. You can add few drops of lemon in it.
This soothing drink will help to expel mucus and catarrh and will relieve irritation in your nose and throat.
2. Honey and onion juice
Mix equal amount of honey and onion juice and take one tablespoon of this mixture three times a day. It tastes better than it sounds believe me, and can be more effective and healthier than over-the-counter medicines.
This natural syrup works as natural expectorant, anti-biotic and anti-inflammatory agent and also strengthens your immune system.
More remedies on next page…
