What's the difference between colds and flu? Apart from a laboratory test it may be virtually impossible to tell the difference, except that a cold is generally thought of as having milder symptoms. Both the cold and flu have a similar cause, because both are usually caused by a virus, but they are different viruses.
Because they have similar symptoms, determining which you have solely by symptoms can be difficult. A flu might have more severe body aches, extreme tiredness, or dry coughs whereas a cold might be more likely to cause a runny nose or congestion.
While the flu can lead to more serious health problems like bacterial infections and pneumonia, a cold rarely produces symptoms needing hospitalization or much in the way of medical attention. However, never dismiss the idea if you think you need to get medical attention, you just might really need help.
If you are trying to determine whether you have a cold or flu those types of medical tests need to be carried out typically within the first three days of your illness.
Tea tree oil can be used to alleviate some of the symptoms of a cold or flu. By using an aromatherapy diffuser, fine particulates of tea tree oil or other aromatic essential oils can be dispersed into the air and help to disinfect the air and surfaces in your home.
Tea tree oil can also be used as an aid to improve your breathing and relieve congestion during colds and flu. Adding a few drops to a pot of steaming water, and inhaling the vapors can be soothing, and again may help to kill off viruses or bacteria in your nasal passages.
Tea tree oil is also very soothing, especially in the form of a tea tree oil balm, when applied to that store area that occurs just below your nose. After the aggravation and irritation of a runny nose and formerly soft tissues, the cooling and soothing properties of tea tree oil, along with its menthol like aroma, can help to speed your recovery.