When you’re suffering from cold or flu, symptoms like headaches, runny nose, sore throat, and exhaustion, can have you looking for fast-acting and effective relief. These natural remedies can help you nip that cold in the bud and start feeling like yourself again—without a trip to the doctor or pharmacy.
Gargle or rinse with saltwater
Gargling with saltwater can soothe a sore throat, and rinsing your nose with a saltwater solution—also called nasal irrigation or sinus flushing—can help break up congestion.
For a sore throat
Mix 1/4 to 1/2 tsp of salt in 1 cup of warm water and gargle the solution throughout the day as needed.
For sinus congestion
Mix 1/4 tsp of un-iodized salt and 1/4 tsp of baking soda in 1 cup of warm water, then use a bulb, syringe, or neti pot to rinse your nasal passage with the solution. Be sure to use distilled or sterile water, don’t swallow the solution, and make sure you breathe through your mouth while rinsing.