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The cold and flu season has officially arrived, and for some, it has already come and gone. With all of the notoriety the swine (H1N1) flu virus is getting, it’s easy to forget that sometimes our cod and flu symptoms can be treated easily and naturally, in the comfort of our own home.

While some antiviral drugs can prevent and shorten the flu’s duration, most medications only offer temporary relief of symptoms. Many natural remedies provide temporary relief as well, and a few may actually help you get better. See which cold and flu remedies show the most promise.

1. Blow your nose
Rather than sniffling mucus back into your head, blow your nose. Careful not to blow hard since pressure can cause an earache. Remember to wash your hands after blowing your nose.

2. Gargle
For a sore throat, the traditional saltwater gargle has merit. Gargling warm water with a teaspoon of salt four times daily can help keep a scratchy throat moist.

3. Get your sleep
Fighting the flu or a cold takes energy. Resting when you first come down with a cold or the flu helps your body direct its energy toward the immune battle. Prop an extra pillow under your head to help drain nasal passages. If the angle is too awkward, try placing the pillows between the mattress and the box springs to create a more gradual slope.

4. Drink hot liquids
Hot liquids serve several purposes, including relieving nasal congestion, helping prevent dehydration, and can even soothe your inflamed nose and throat.

5. Hot or cold packs around sinuses
Pick your poison; either temperature may help you feel more comfortable. You can buy reusable hot or cold packs at a drugstore. Or make your own. Take a damp washcloth and heat it for 55 seconds in a microwave (test the temperature first to make sure it's right for you.) Or take a small bag of frozen peas to use as a cold pack.

6. Steamy showers
Steamy showers moisturize your nasal passages and relax you to help with the rest (see #3).

7. Vitamin D
Vitamin D helps aid the immune system to fight against the different viruses. You can take a vitamin D supplement or you can just go sit outside for fifteen minutes per day and let the sun naturally rejuvenate your vitamin D supply.

8. Don’t hinder your immune system
Don't eat, drink or intake things like cigarette smoke, alcohol and caffeine that can suppress your immune system. Sorry coffee lovers, try the decaf because all of these things can make it harder for your immune system to fight off the colds and flu.

While there is no cure for the common cold or for the Flu, there are certain things you can do to lessen the impact of the cold or flu. Whether you opt for natural, or over the counter, be sure to know the warning signs when it’s time to see a doctor.

About the author: Suzi Milovanovic is a mommy blogger for RealMomsGuide.com. She is fanatical about researching and getting the word out about issues important to parents. She has also written several articles for SheKnows, in addition to other notable websites and publications, including her own local Phoenix Metro parenting websites. She is on Twitter with her alter-ego Suzi Says !