For most people, common colds and even the flu are pretty common occurrences, though it's hard to know if people will feel under the weather for two days or two weeks. Because a cold and the flu are viruses, there isn't technically a cure for either. Acting quickly, however, can get rid of symptoms or reduce the time that symptoms linger.
Step 1
Take the herb echinacea or vitamin C or zinc. Research is varied as to whether it will prevent you from catching a cold, but according to the Mayo Clinic, moderate research supports that taking these can reduce the duration of cold symptoms. Take according to the instructions on the product. Discuss with your physician whether they might have an interaction with any other medications you may be taking.
Step 2
Take a supplement such as elderberry or aconitum. Elderberry, also known as elder, is sold commercially as an extract called Sambucol. According to the University of Maryland, Sambucol has been shown to reduce cold symptoms by three days. Aconitum, also known as aconitum napellus, is a plant used to treat fever or illness brought on by being exposed to a cold environment or draft. Aconitum should be taken within 24 hours of the onset of symptoms for optimal results.
Step 3
Take an over-the-counter pain reliever such as acetaminophen for headaches or body aches related to cold or flu symptoms. Review the over-the-counter medications you may already be taking for your cold or flu symptoms; some of them contain ingredients that will treat headaches or body aches associated with a cold or the flu.
Step 4
Take an oral over-the-counter decongestant or an over-the-counter decongestant nasal spray to enable better breathing.
Step 5
Take an over-the-counter cough syrup if you have a cough associated with a cold. However, remember that cough syrups are designed to treat the cough itself, not the cause of the cough or the cold.
Step 6
Drink fluids such as water, juice or warm tea to avoid dehydration from fever or your body's production of mucus. Try to avoid caffeine or alcohol, which can dehydrate you. Also, eat fresh foods regularly. Although you may lose your appetite, it is important that you eat regularly to provide your body with fuel to fight off the cold or flu. Choose fresh fruits, vegetables and lean proteins.
Step 7
Gargle with warm salt water or drink warm tea with lemon or honey for a sore throat.
Step 8
Rest as much as you can. If possible, stay home from work or school to allow your body to rest and regain its strength to fight off the virus. Many people go days without resting and by the time they take off from work, the cold has gotten much worse.
Step 9
Practice good hygiene to prevent spreading bacteria to others. Wash your hands regularly. Use warm water and soap. Rub your hands together for at least 15 seconds. Wash your face every day after returning from work or school, particularly if you use public transportation. If you need to cough or sneeze, cover your mouth with your sleeve. Keep a supply of hand sanitizer with you as well as at work, school and home.
