Over 200 viruses have been identified as being responsible for the many varieties of cold and influenza (or flu) that are now widespread throughout the world. The most common, accounting for about a third of all infections, is the rhinovirus. Conventional medicine has no cure.

The main aim of most natural therapies is to speed up the process or alleviate the symptoms and, in the longer term, to help boost the immune system to fight off infection.

Cold symptoms may include a runny or blocked nose, sore throat, headache, watery eyes, and a cough. Influenza sufferers may also run a fever and have general aches and pains in muscles and joints.

Treatment

Aromatherapy Steam inhalations are effective for alleviating breathing problems. Put a few drops of menthol, eucalyptus, or peppermint oil in a basin of very hot water, cover your head with a towel and inhale. Essential oils may be put in the bath, on a sponge, or vaporized in the room.

Herbal Medicine Catmint is good for congestion, elderflower for catarrh, and camomile for bringing down a fever. There are also specific mixtures that are available in most health stores.

Consult a qualified practitioner/therapist for:

Acupuncture And Acupressure Both of these therapies can be used to strengthen the life force (eni) to fight off a cold and scatter phlegm.

Traditional Chinese Medicine Massage of back, chest and arms can alleviate symptoms.

Homeopathy Remedies include Natrum mur., Nux vomica, Allium, and Hepar sulf. (coughs and colds). Gelsemium (for influenza, aches, and shivering).

Cold Sores

Seen as blisters or sores, especially around the mouth cold sores are caused by the herpes simplex virus, and are triggered by changes in temperature and exposure' to direct sunlight.

Treatment

Homeopathy Remedies that may help the condition include Hepar sulf and Rhus tox.

Herbal Medicine Licorice is said to inactivate the virus.

Aromatherapy

Rub on the spot gently with lavender, geranium, thyme, or tea tree oil.