One shows symptoms of common cold and flu after contracting viruses. While there’s no certified cure for the symptoms, specific natural remedies can prepare the body to fight the virus. These remedies relieve conditions like sore throat, weakness, and running nose, thereby reducing the duration of the illness. Besides, there’s no harm in trying them as they are natural, and chances of recovering are high. So here are four natural remedies for treating cold and flu.

Have ginger
Ginger is a tried and tested remedy for flu and cold. The component gingerol present in it heals oxidative stress and flushes out toxins from the body. Its anti-inflammatory properties reduce swelling and congestion in the nasal tract too. Besides, it can also soothe an aching throat or relieve a harsh cough. Thus, the benefits of having ginger are numerous. So, one can simply add a dash of it to their glass of warm water or prepare ginger tea to soothe distress.

Gargle using saltwater
This is a simple natural remedy, requiring little effort. All one needs is a glass of warm water, some salt, and the ability to gargle patiently. It must be noted that many who complain that gargling is ineffective don’t do it the right way. One should gargle for at least half a minute before they spit the water out. Those who do it right may find it useful in fighting the flu. If a person has symptoms related to the upper respiratory system, gargling may be all the more suitable as it targets infections in that area and tries to flush them out.

Add garlic to the food
The medicinal properties of garlic have been known to humankind for centuries. It has been used over the years to relieve cold and flu symptoms naturally. Garlic has allicin, which has antimicrobial properties. This ingredient helps fight bacteria that trigger cold symptoms. Garlic, like ginger, can also soothe inflammation and boost one’s immune system. This may help fight the virus and restore energy. An easy way to consume garlic is to add it to the food. One can simply add a dash of it while preparing meals.

Have sponge baths
Soaking a sponge in warm water and dabbing it over the body for five minutes may bring down the body’s temperature during a fever. This can make a person feel better on the whole. One can also add a few drops of essential oil, either rosemary or lavender, to boost the bath water’s soothing power. Also, one can place a damp cloth on their forehead to transfer the heat onto it. This cools down the temperature so that one doesn’t feel heavy-headed.