There may not be a cure for the common cold, but that doesn’t mean cold season needs to be all about suffering. If you’re fighting a fever, body aches, involuntary coughs and sneezes, headaches and/or a sore throat – chances are you’re ready to try anything to help ease your symptoms.

Luckily, there are many cold remedies out there that work! There are over-the-counter (OTC) options like acetaminophen or ibuprofuen to reduce fever and help ease any body aches and pain; nasal spray and topical ointments to relieve congestion; cough gels and drops to reduce those nagging coughs; and sore throat spray and lozenges to temporarily relieve pain. Some drugs are more effective than others, and it’s a good idea to read up on any risks associated with them and what can happen if they interact with other drugs.

There are also plenty of natural home remedies that can do wonders. Read on for 2 simple DIY treatments.

Ultimate Steam for Cold Season

Have you ever noticed how a hot, steamy drink or shower feels so good when you have a cold? Warm water vapor may help loosen mucus to help relieve congestion. This DIY takes that feeling and bottles it into a simple, do-anywhere symptom relief recipe:

Ingredients:

1 drop each of:

• Thursday Plantation 100% Pure Tea Tree Oil
• NOW Essential Oils White Thyme Oil
• Aura Cacia Lemon Essential Oil
• Aromaforce Eucalyptus Essential Oil

Directions:

Place mixture in a large bowl with hot, but not scalding, water. Place a towel over your head and your face over the bowl. Breathe in the stream to loosen congestion.

If you’re not comfortable with a face full of hot stream, place the mixture into a full humidifier. This will disperse the stream more gradually, giving you a gentler form of relief. Or try it out in your favourite essential oil diffuser.

DIY Soothing Shower Puck

If you don’t own a diffuser but still want to clear your stuffy nose, create the same effect in your shower with this soothing shower puck recipe.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup Baking Soda
• 1/3 cup Water
• Mini Muffin Pan
• Mini Muffin Liners
• Essential oils (your choice):
  • Eucalyptus
  • Rosemary
  • Peppermint
  • Lemon
  • Lavender
  • White Thyme

Directions:

Preheat oven to 325°F. While oven is heating up, line a mini-muffin pan with foil liners. Mix the baking soda and water together to form a thick paste, then pour by tablespoon into the lined muffin pan. Bake for 15 minutes. Remove from the oven, and let them cool.

Once your pucks have cooled, they are ready for the essential oils. Top each with 8 to 10 drops of the essential oil blend of your choice. Eucalyptus is effective for treating several respiratory problems, including cough, runny nose, sore throat and nasal congestions – so start with this one. Rosemary also works as a decongestant and can help ease respiratory issues, and peppermint and lemon can help calm and soothe for a relaxing shower. For more information on certain essential oils and their uses, check out our introductory blog to 6 of our most popular essential oils.

After the essential oils are added, your shower pucks are ready to be used! Place one on the shower floor, turn on the hot water, and enjoy the soothing vapors while you shower.

Have any other ways to combat flu season naturally? Let us know in the comments below!

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It’s important to note that natural essential oils are highly concentrated and should be used with care. Only diffuse essential oils in a well-ventilated area. These recipes are for adults only—keep out of reach of children. Not meant for internal use. Eucalyptus oil may be harmful or fatal if swallowed. Avoid contact with eyes. If pregnant or nursing, consult your healthcare practitioner before using. Not intended for use with pets.

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Did you know? Free flu shots are available at all Rexall Drugstore locations across Canada without an appointment. Get yours today!