The effective old-timey remedies for cold and flu that this article presents have been used for many centuries to ease congestion, help break up mucus, soothe muscle stiffness, fever, sore throat, headache, and help the body stay hydrated. These are natural solutions that your grandparents may have recommended, which employ natural methods, soothing foods, and natural plants and essential oils:

1. Gargle frequently
A sore throat is one of the common symptoms of cold and flu. It can be irritating and makes you feel uncomfortable. One of the most effective old-timey remedies for cold and flu is to gargle frequently to get relief from sore throat. While gargling, you must add a pinch of salt to warm water. When you gargle with this solution, the salt gets into the bacteria or viruses in the throat through osmosis and destroys its cells. It is a good way of getting rid of a sore throat caused by infection.

2. Use a humidifier
Dry air helps the cold to spread. Keeping the air humid can be beneficial to prevent the cold or flu virus from spreading. It can also make you feel more comfortable and can be done by using a humidifier. For better results, it is recommended to add a few drops of eucalyptus oil in the water.

3. Rest well
Rest is beneficial when you have a cold or flu. Don’t do anything to strain your body. Rest can help you recover from the symptoms of cold and flu. Taking leave from school or work as it not only helps you to rest but also stops the virus from spreading. A night of good sleep can improve your body’s immunity, allowing the body to fight the symptoms of flu and cold.

4. Chicken soup
One of the most popular old-timey remedies, if you have a cold, is to consume hot soup: chicken soup in particular. It is believed that hot soup can keep you hydrated and warm, reducing the symptoms of cold and flu. It is also believed that chicken soup helps to regulate the flow of white blood cells so that they can naturally fight off infections.

5. Try echinacea
Echinacea is a plant that has been used for many years to treat cold and flu. It can be consumed as a hot tea. Studies have shown that consuming echinacea may reduce the chance of getting the flu by 50%. It can lessen inflammation and improve your immunity, allowing your body to fight the flu naturally.

6. Use essential oils
Applying essential oils can help in treating the flu. They can be inhaled with steam or mixed with liquid soap to wash your hands. They can also be applied on the forehead.
Tea tree oil, eucalyptus oil, thyme oil, lemon oil, and peppermint oil are some essential oils that are helpful in treating the symptoms of cold and flu and reducing the discomfort caused due to congestion.