Are you or your loved one down with the flu? You may think that only an over-the-counter medication can help you feel better, but the truth is that there are many home remedies for managing cold and flu naturally. Having the flu should not mean that you are unable to get up from the bed and do your regular chores. You may continue to experience slight discomfort even with these natural therapies but it is better than taking medicines in the long run.

10 tips for managing cold and flu naturally:

• Stay rested
  It is important to take adequate rest when you are coming down with fever and cold. You need all the energy you can get to fight the infection. The fight may wear you down and this is why a good sleep can make things better faster.
• Blow the nose the right way
  It is necessary that you blow your nose whenever you have a cold to make sure that the mucus goes out instead of traveling back to the head. If you apply a lot of pressure it may trigger an earache. So, the best way to do it is to press on one of the nostrils using a finger and blow gently in order to decongest the other.
• Gargle
  This is always a great way for managing cold and flu naturally. It will help to moisten your so r e throat and give you some relief, albeit for a short while. You can do this by dissolving salt in tepid water at least four times a day.
• Drink hot liquids
  It always helps to drink warm liquids as these will significantly relieve the nasal congestion. They also help to relieve the inflamed membranes inside your throat and nose. For instance, you can consider sipping on some chicken soup to alleviate the discomfort and pain. When you make it with veggies, you can slow neutrophil movement in the body and these white blood cells responsible for germ-fighting can then linger in those areas which need healing.
• Steamy shower
  This will help to moisturize the nasal passages, helping you relax and feel better.
• Hot/cold packs
  You can try applying these on your sinuses to get some quick comfort when you do not want to take medicines. These packs may be bought easily from any drug store or you can take any damp cloth at home, heat this for 20 seconds in the microwave, and then apply it.
• Eat ginger
  Ginger root is known for its curative and medicinal properties. You can put some ginger in boiling water and sip on this to soothe a sore throat.
• Honey
  Honey has many anti-microbial and anti-bacterial properties. You can drink your tea with honey and lemon in it to get relief from throat pain. Honey works as a cough suppressant and should be taken at bight before bedtime to reduce the severity of cough symptoms.
• Probiotics
  These are gut-friendly bacteria present in some foods and supplements that are responsible for keeping your immune system working optimally and your stomach healthy. The best way to include probiotics in the diet is by adding yogurt to it.
• Avoid taking flights
  When you fly, there is change in air-pressure and that often wreaks havoc in your respiratory system that is already stressed because of the cold and flu. Your eardrums are likely to feel the pain most often especially during landing and take-off. It is best to take a decongestant prescribed by your doctor if you must fly.