35+ Natural Remedies for Colds and Flu

Not feeling well? Check out these 35+ natural remedies for colds and flu that you can make with simple ingredients in your kitchen.

Not feeling well? Or nursing a sick kid… or worse a husband with a man cold?

Check out these 35+ Natural Remedies for Colds and Flu. You can make these natural remedies with simple ingredients from your kitchen to boost your immune system, give natural relief for cold and flu symptoms, and help nourish your body to speed recovery.

What Is The Difference Between A Cold And Flu?

Flu and the common cold are both respiratory illnesses but they are caused by different viruses. Because these two types of illnesses have similar symptoms, it can be difficult to tell the difference between them based on symptoms alone. In general, flu is worse than the common cold, and symptoms are more intense. Colds are usually milder than flu. People with colds are more likely to have a runny or stuffy nose. Colds generally do not result in serious health problems, such as pneumonia, bacterial infections, or hospitalizations. Flu can have very serious associated complications.

How Are Cold And Flu Symptoms Different?

Because colds and flu share many symptoms, it can be difficult (or even impossible) to tell the difference between them based on symptoms alone. Special tests that usually must be done within the first few days of illness can tell if a person has the flu.

The symptoms of flu can include fever or feeling feverish/chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches and fatigue (tiredness). Cold symptoms are usually milder than the symptoms of flu. People with colds are more likely to have a runny or stuffy nose. Colds generally do not result in serious health problems.

How Long Are You Contagious With Cold Or Flu?

Typically, you’re contagious from 1 day before you have any symptoms. You stay that way for 5 to 7 days after you start feeling sick. Children may be able to spread the virus for even longer, until all of their symptoms fade.

Most of the time, the virus is spread through droplets in the air. Sick people sneeze or cough out beads of moisture that contain the flu virus. They can travel up to 6 feet. You’re exposed to the flu virus when you breathe the droplets in, or if they land in your mouth, nose, or eyes. You can also get it if you touch a place those droplets land — like a desk, counter, or doorknob — and then touch your face. The virus can live on hard surfaces for up to 48 hours.