Shoo flu, don’t bother me.

The change from Summer to Fall calls for warm sweaters, busier schedules, and unfortunately, the common cold. However, it isn’t the cold weather that causes people to get sick. According to Registered Nurse Kristina Duda, the common cold and other infections spread more easily in cool and dry conditions. Being in busy public environments like schools means you’ll be prone to catching these infections. To avoid getting sick, be sure to stay sanitary as much as possible!

Even when you try and stay sanitary, it still can catch up to you. Here are some remedies that can help you get through cold and flu season:

1. Immune Remedy from Saje

This roll-on helps relieve effects from your cold and cough. Simply roll it onto your chest and/or neck, and allow the benefits of eucalyptus, cinnamon, and tea tree oil soothe away your symptoms. Order it now for just $22.95.

2. Order yourself a Ginger Turmeric from Aroma

This is one of my favourite ways to treat myself when I’m feeling ill. Head over to your closest Aroma Espresso Bar and order yourself a Ginger Turmeric. The drink is a healthy elixir of cold-pressed ginger and turmeric, naturally sweetened with lemon, honey, and cinnamon. It comes hot or cold, but if you’re really trying to clear your sinuses and get the most taste out of all of the ingredients, I recommend ordering it hot. With that being said, it’s also super refreshing served cold.

Alternatively, you can try making your own at home version for cheap.

3. Oil of Oregano

Add a few drops to either your diffuser or water. Doing so will bring relief to your sore throat, and gastrointestinal issues. While a little pricey, it has become so common you can often find it in grocery stores too!

4. Add a humidifier or diffuser to your home

Adding a humidifier will help eliminate chest congestion, and allow for a better nights sleep. Rest is so important when you’re sick! The more sleep you get, the sooner you will feel better. As for a diffuser, essential oils are great for boosting your immune system! Some of the best ones are tea tree, sage, rosemary, grapefruit, and lemon. There are plenty of essential oils that are anti-microbial when put into your diffuser. The organic compounds that are in the oils come in contact with airborne pathogens before they come in contact with your body.

5. Saltwater

If you’re suffering from a sore throat, gargling salt water will provide some relief. Dissolve 1/2 a teaspoon in an 8-ounce glass of water, gargle it back, then rinse. This will allow for some temporary relief. Repeat as needed.

6. Heating pad

Buy, or make your own! Whichever you do, apply around wherever you are congested, and things should clear up. In terms of making your own, put a damp washcloth in the microwave for one minute. A hot sauna or shower will also do the trick.

7. Eat foods with plenty of vitamins

Vitamins fight infections in our bodies, so it’s important to get them when our bodies are ill. Here are some foods that can help:

• Bell peppers for Vitamin C
• Blueberries for natural aspirin (lowers fevers)
• Mustard/horseradish breaks up mucus
• Black and green tea for catechin (natural antibiotic)
• Carrots for beta-carotene (for the immune system)

There are tons of campus health resources here for you. Remember, you can always visit the Student Wellness & Accessibility centre.

Questions about resources? Stop by the IGNITE office at North in KX202, and the K building at Lakeshore.

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