Well it’s Flu season again at Georgia Southern, and while nothing can quite beat modern medicine, sometimes the comforts of a good old fashioned home remedy can help mitigate some of the symptoms.

1. Tea

Tea offers plenty of benefits to a flu riddled patient. Black tea can help soothe a sore throat, citrus teas are rich in vitamin C and adding honey can give you a boost of antioxidants.

2. Pencils

Headaches caused by stress or anxiety can be often be remedied by simply chewing on a pencil. When you’re stressed, you subconsciously clench your jaw, and by holding a pencil in your mouth, it can relieve this pressure, according to prevention.com.

3. Hot Peppers

According to sharecare.com spicy peppers contain a compound named capsaicin, which can serve as a decongestant for a stuffy nose. And even if you can’t stand the heat, you could eat bell peppers, which are high in vitamin C.

4. Oatmeal

Oatmeal contains selenium, zinc, and beta glucen, all of which boosts your immune system and can help you stave off nasty cold and flu infections, according to sharecare.com.

5. Sleep

Probably the most important remedy of all time. Many students seriously underestimate the power of a good nights rest. According to the National Sleep Foundation, sleep deprivation can lead to an overall weaker immune system, cause cuts and burns to heal less quickly, and even spawn a number of mental issues. So be sure to rest up.