Common cold and flu

The common cold is caused by a number of viruses. The symptoms and signs include:

sneezing and a runny nose,
a sore throat, and
cough.
The flu is also caused by a virus and its symptoms and signs include:

fever (high temperature),
aching muscles,
sore throat and
headache.
The fever subsides in a couple of days leaving the sufferer feeling weak and lacking in energy.

The common cold and flu are caused by a number of viruses and if you are run down and your immune system is not working at an optimum level then you are likely to be susceptible.

What you can do to help

Vitamins A (as beta-carotene), C and zinc can help to prevent colds and the flu and during the flu season it is recommended that you increase the dose to double to assist in preventing the infection.

If you have a cold or flu take 1g of vitamin C three times per day, and take a zinc lozenge every two hours up to six times per day.

Drink plenty of fresh water to flush the system and try hot water with lemon juice to cleanse the respiratory system.

Herbs such as garlic and Echinacea can assist in boosting the immune system. (Also see ... for other ways to boost the immune system.)