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One of the various commonalities between colds and flu is that both are caused by viruses. While flu is caused by the influenza virus, there are too many viruses which can make you catch a cold. However, most commonly colds are caused by a class of virus known as the rhinovirus. In fact the symptoms of both cold and flu are so akin to each other that sometimes it becomes difficult without a test to determine whether it is a flu or a simple cold. Both will make you have a runny nose, sneezing, coughing, headache and chills.
If you are having a high fever dragging on for days that is accompanied with a not-so-severe chest and nasal congestion then it can be quite safely said that you have a flu. Otherwise, even cold can precipitate mild fever lasting for a few days. Despite all these similarities colds can get cured by itself within a few days, but flu will last for many days and will inadvertently need medical intervention. If not intervened at the right time flu can lead to pneumonia.
Both colds and flu can be treated by antiviral drugs. However, there are herbal treatments too for both form of viral infections. In fact colds and even flu may not warrant visiting a doctor. There are a lot of herbs that are quite effective in treating colds and flu. Let us discuss few of these herbs.
Herbal Remedies For Colds and Flu
Bergamot
This is a bit different from the herbs so far discussed. This herb is antipyretic in nature, meaning that it can bring down fever. The aroma of bergamot oil is very powerful and it is absorbed into the bloodstream through nose and skin. It can be quite useful in fighting flu.
Lavender
The essential oils present in lavender have been found to be quite effective as antivirals. Apart from this lavender oil is also a immune booster and has got a soothing effect on the body. Lavender oil is available over the counter. Get one bottle of this and inhale the aroma to defeat virus.
Eucalyptus
The property of eucalyptus as a decongestant is well known. It can instantly relieve you from the congestion from colds and flu. Along with this it is also antibiotic and antiviral in nature.
So you can use eucalyptus oil for both colds and flu. Buy a bottle of eucalyptus oil, pour a few drops of it in a bowl containing steaming hot water and inhale the vapour. You will feel immensely relieved. With regular use even flu can be cured.
Rosemary
Rosemary is antiviral and antiseptic in nature. If you get rosemary inhalation regularly you can get relief from colds and flu. For this sprinkle some rosemary oil onto the pillow and sleep on it overnight. In the morning you will feel a lot relieved.
Thyme And Peppermint
Thyme is another herb that packs quite a punch against flu and cold. It is antiviral, antibiotic and antiseptic in nature. Mix it with some peppermint oil which is anti-inflammatory and decongestant. This will make a potent combination which can defeat most infections and ease congestion from mucus.
Caution: Please use Home Remedies after Proper Research and Guidance. You accept that you are following any advice at your own risk and will properly research or consult healthcare professional.