Cold and flu are probably two of the most common health problems that almost everyone deals with. According to a recent study, almost 45% of the population gets affected by either the common cold or flu every year. However, the cases of cold are not life-threatening and generally resolve within a few days.

Nevertheless, the symptoms of both these ailments, which can be quite annoying and irritating. Thus, to get rid of these unpleasant symptoms, most people usually opt for old-time remedies, as they do not have any side effects and are quite cheap.

Some old-timey cold and flu remedies to try include the following:

1. Drink tea
One of the most common symptoms of both colds and flu is a feeling of scratchiness in the throat. In order to get some relief from this unpleasant symptom, most doctors suggest drinking hot tea at least 2 to 3 times a day. To get the best results, you would have to drink it slowly.

Drinking hot tea can also help you keep yourself hydrated, which may help to relieve some other symptoms. As a result, most people consider tea to be one of the best old-time remedies for colds and flu.

2. Opt for a hot bath
If your nose is stuffed up and you are experiencing breathing problems, taking a hot shower can prove to be a great idea. A hot bath works by increasing the moisture in the air, which helps to clear up your sinuses.

You may also be able to help your cause if you try to blow your nose, one nostril at a time while taking a hot bath. However, remember to do this as gently as possible; otherwise, the insides of your nose may get affected. Most of the people who tend to use the old-time remedies for colds and flu generally opt for a hot shower before trying anything else.

3. Use essential oils
To treat the milder, yet annoying, symptoms of cold and flu, you can also opt for essential oils. Some of the most popular essential oils, which are used to treat the symptoms of cold are eucalyptus oil and peppermint oil.

4. Take rest
Another quite common symptom of a cold is extreme fatigue. However, there are no old-time remedies for colds and flu that can help you to treat this symptom. To get rid of this fatigue, you would simply have to take some rest.

Most health specialists usually advise people to get a good 7 to 8 hours of sleep. But, if you just do not have the time, 4 to 5 small naps per day may also prove to be beneficial.

So, these are some of the effective home remedies that are quite popular among the people who regularly struggle with cold and flu. However, some other serious conditions, such as bronchitis, sinusitis, and meningitis also come with the same symptoms as that of a common cold. Thus, consulting with your doctor as soon as possible can be a great idea if these remedies are not working for you.