Cold and flu are common conditions that can happen to anybody. They may cause fever, chills, nasal congestion, and body aches. Fortunately, there are adequate ways for managing cold and flu naturally. Simple home remedies can help to alleviate the symptoms. However, in case you experience symptoms like rapid heartbeat, excessive fatigue, or trouble in breathing, you must seek medical attention immediately. Listed below are some easy ways for managing cold and flu naturally.

Stay hydrated
Consuming plenty of fluids in the form of water, juice, warm lemon water, or clear broth is a good way to ease the congestion and prevent dehydration. At the same time, you must avoid coffee, alcohol, and other carbonated beverages that can make dehydration worse.

Gargle with salt water
Salt water is great to prevent upper respiratory infections. It also helps to heal sore throat and alleviate nasal congestion. So, when you are battling with cold and flu, you must gargle four times a day. Dissolve one teaspoon of salt in a full glass of warm water. Gargling with salt water reduces the mucus in the throat that contains allergens and bacteria.

Combat nose stuffiness
This is another effective technique for managing cold and flu naturally. You can use over-the-counter saline nasal drops to relieve congestion and stuffiness. Also, you must blow your nose regularly to eliminate the mucus from your body. The best way to blow your nose is by pressing one finger over one nostril and using the other one to blow gently.

Sip warm liquids
Hot liquids not only help to prevent dehydration but also soothe the inflamed membranes that line the throat and nose. You can try the age-old remedy, the hot toddy. To make it, add one teaspoon of honey and one shot of bourbon or whiskey. But make sure to have only one shot as excess alcohol can further exasperate your symptoms. Alternatively, you can go for a warm cup of delicious herbal tea.

Stay warm and rested
A cold and flu can make anyone feel fatigued. It can also suppress the immune system for a while. So, to make sure that your body recoups well, you must give it adequate rest.

Try a warm bath
Many times, taking a warm bath can help to reduce the strain on the body and ease the congestion. You can add some Epsom salt and a pinch of baking soda to the water. This can help to reduce body aches.

Apply hot or cold packs around your congested sinuses
Reusable hot and cold packs are available at local drugstores. Alternatively, you can heat a washcloth in a microwave and apply it to your congested sinuses. A bag of frozen peas can also be used as a cold pack to ease the congestion.

These easy ways for managing cold and flu naturally are very helpful. One can completely get rid of the symptoms by following these tips religiously.