Here are ways you can treat yourself for the common cold and the flu:

1. DO NOTHING OTHER THAN REST. This allows the body to strenghten itself and exercises the immune system, which results in overall better health.
2. Increase fluids intake
3. Sore throat: Warm salt water gargles
4. Reduce fever: Tepid sponge baths from head to toe

Sponge Bath

Use tepid (lukewarm) water only, not cold water, no ice or alcohol.
1. With a washcloth gently bathe one section of the body at a time, moving from head to toe.
2. Only uncover the part of the body being bathed.
3. Alternatively, if the child wishes, he or she may get into a lukewarm bathtub.
4. Repeat as often as necessary, even several times in succession, finishing at the toes and starting again at the head.
5. This gently lowers the fever to a comfortable level.
6. This treatment is meant to be soothing and comforting, as well as therapeutic.

5. Congestion in head and chest:

a. Steam inhalation therapy - boil water with pinch of turmeric (a common Indian spice found in any food store), remove pot from stove, cover head with a towel and inhale the steam from the pot. Be careful not to burn yourself or your child on the hot pot.
b. Heat mustard oil (available at an Indian market) with a clove of garlic and rub on chest and soles of feet
c. Warm sock treatment (see below)

Warm Sock Treatment
Supplies:
• 1 Pair of white cotton socks
• 1 Pair of thick wool socks
• 1 Towel
• Warm bath or warm foot bath

Directions:
1. Take a pair of cotton socks and soak them completely with ice cold water. Be sure to wring the socks out thoroughly so they do not drip.
2. Warm your feet first. This is very important as the treatment will not be as effective and could be harmful if your feet are not warmed first. Warming can be accomplished by soaking your feet in warm water for at least 5-10 minutes or taking a warm bath for 5-10 minutes.
3. Dry off feet and body with a dry towel.
4. Place the cold wet socks on the feet. Cover with the thick wool socks. Go directly to bed. Avoid getting chilled.
5. Keep the socks on overnight. You will find that the wet cotton socks will be dry in the morning.

Seek homeopathic treatment if no improvement after 3 days or if symptoms worsen. Your constitutional remedy is the best preventive for colds and flus. Be sure it is up to date!