* Eliminate alcohol, caffeine, refined foods and sugar.
* Increase fluid intake.
* Supplement with:
vitamin C at 1 g/day or more can reduce the severity and duration of cold and flu symptoms
beta-carotene/vitamin A at 15,000-50,000 IU/day can help lower a fever
zinc at 10-30 mg/day.
* Homoeopathic remedies to try:
Belladonna helps with throbbing pain, a ‘burning’ fever or if pupils are dilated (Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther, 1997; 35: 296-301)
Pulsatilla is ideal for fever due to ear infection (Int J Clin Pharmacol Ther, 1997; 35: 296-301)
Aconite works for treating colds in their early stages.
* Herbal remedies to try:
Echinacea purpurea boosts the immune system, helping the body to fight fever naturally (J Alt Complement Med, 2000; 6: 327-34)
moxa (Artemisia) is best used together with acupuncture against the worst symptoms of colds and flu (Zhongguo Zhong Yao Za Zhi, 1993; 18: 44-8, 63-4)
elderberry (Sambucus nigra) extract helps reduce fever and infections of the throat, sinuses, ears and upper respiratory tract (J Alt Complement Med, 1995; 1: 361-9).