Once you've caught a virus, there are some excellent natural cold and flu treatments that, combined with common sense, can be used to alleviate the severity of the illness.

Taking a little time off from your job can be an immediate relief of the effects of having the flu or a cold. Usually a day or two should do the trick, but it's advisable to remain away from the workplace until you're over the virus as to not get anyone else sick. Stay in bed as much as possible and also take some steaming hot showers to loosen your congestion. The steam will essentially help you to breathe a little bit easier if your are having trouble doing so.

If you find that steam doesn't do the trick, then try using a neti pot. A neti pot is used to gently wash away excess mucous, bacteria, and viruses from your sinuses. Basically you fill the neti pot with warm filtered water and 1/4 teaspoon of non-iodized salt. Then you insert the tip of the neti pot into one side of your nostrils, lean forward with your head slightly tilted to one side, and allow the saline solution to flow from one side of your nasal cavity to the other. The just repeat for the other side. This process will clear your sinuses, affording you more free breathing.

Herbal teas have been know to work wonders when you're stricken with the cold or flu. Seek an herbal tea that has a soothing ingredient to it, like mint or lemon. The mint in the tea will act as a cooling agent, which will soothe your scratchy throat, and will in the loosening up of your congested sinuses.

Many of the best natural cold and flu remedies include basic methods of staying healthy in general. Staying healthy is important, and making time to allow ourselves to get well is equally important. When you realize you've come down with a virus, take a day off from work and take the time to sleep and tend to your health. Ample rest is going to be vital to your ability to recover from an illness. Be sure to drink plenty of fluids as staying as hydrated is essential to staying healthy and fighting off a virus. Being sick can can be agony for anyone, but in order for us to fight the illness we need to know some good, safe methods of proper health. These simple tips can help you to become better able to fight common illnesses and become healthier sooner!