Being sick is never fun and the combination of cold, flu and body aches can be enough to make anyone’s life miserable. Luckily, there are myriad ways in which it can be treated. Along with the regular medication, you can also opt for various natural remedies for cold and flu to combat its symptoms. There are plenty of natural home remedies available which can alleviate your symptoms and help you in getting yourself back to normal.

Keep reading to know about various natural remedies for cold and flu which you can make from ingredients almost always found in homes or easily at the market.

• Gargle with saltwater
  This remedy can be practiced not only when you’re sick but all year round too. It can not only offer relief to your sore, scratchy throat but it also actually cleanses the bacteria from the throat area. Mix 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon salt in an eight-ounce glass of warm water. Gargle at least twice a day to receive the desired results.
• Have honey
  In addition to soothing a sore throat, honey also works as a cough suppressant. It can soothe irritated mucous membranes and that helps in removing the irritation that is fuelling the cough reflex.
• Take a ginger shot
  Ginger is full of anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It is known for its abilities in relieving the symptoms of congestion, nausea, colds, and fevers. You can mix ginger with honey or consume it as a juice shot. Thus, ginger is one of the best natural remedies for cold and flu.
• Make use of elderberry syrup
  Elderberry is a type of fruit that grows on the elder tree. Its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties make it a powerhouse for natural remedies for cold and flu. According to studies, the consumption of elderberry syrup helps to shorten the duration of common colds. Further, it also offers relief from sinus infections.
• Use propolis
  Did you know that in addition to honey, bees also produce propolis? Propolis is the substance which bees use to seal in their hives. It is anti-bacterial and anti-viral and works great in fighting most types of the common cold and flu.
• Use essential oils
  Almost all plants provide many powerful essential oils that can be used as natural remedies for cold and flu. For example, eucalyptus oil has antimicrobial and antibacterial properties. And this has been used since ages in the treatment of all types of common cold and flu. Further, few other oils such as peppermint oil are widely used as natural fever reliever and as decongestant.
• Increase your consumption of garlic
  The humble garlic is also a powerful antioxidant. Further, it is also full of antimicrobial, antiviral and antibiotic properties. It also comes packed with minerals, enzymes, vitamin C, sulfur, and selenium. Due to these factors, garlic is the preferred warrior against cold and flu. You can consume garlic in any form; you can include it in your regular meal or eat as clove.

In addition to these natural remedies for cold and flu, to combat the symptoms properly, ensure to get enough sleep as this always helps to heal your body. Always keep in mind that if you still feel sick for more than a week, you should not hesitate to consult your doctor.