The content below was selected by WebMD and is solely under WebMD's editorial control.

Answers About Home Remedies for Cold and Flu WebMD Medical Reference

Does chicken soup really work? Can you catch a cold by getting a chill? To separate myth from fact, WebMD turned to University of Washington internist Debbie Greenberg, MD, for answers to frequent questions.

Should you starve a fever and feed a cold?

You can treat both about the same. Make sure you are drinking fluids. In fact, drink more than usual. Avoid drinks that will rob your system of fluids, such as coffee, teas, and colas with caffeine. As for eating, use your appetite as a guideline. If you're not particularly hungry, try to eat some simple foods like white rice or broth. If you feel like eating a steak, go ahead!

How effective are home remedies such as a hot toddy or chicken soup?

Like many cold remedies, a hot toddy or chicken soup might soothe your sore throat and help you sleep. However, there's no proof that either will drive the virus out of your body.

Can you catch cold by going out in the cold air or getting a chill?

No. You need to be exposed to the virus (usually in the form of respiratory droplets from someone near you) in order for you to contract it. It is possible that cold air can irritate an existing condition, such as asthma. This may make your body more receptive to the virus, but only if you come in contact with it.

How effective are natural remedies such as zinc, echinacea, and vitamin C?

In some individuals, natural remedies and preventive measures seem to help. However, researchers have not proved that these things can prevent a cold or the flu, reduce symptoms, or rid a body of a virus.

Reviewed by Charlotte E. Grayson, MD, September 2003.
Originally published October 2001.

SOURCE: Debbie Greenberg, MD, an internist at the University of Washington.

© 2003 WebMD Inc. All rights reserved.