Recommended dosages from the Arm and Hammer Company for colds and influenza:
During the first day take six doses of half teaspoonful of Bicarbonate of Soda in glass of cool water, at about two hour intervals
During the second day take four doses of half teaspoonful of Bicarbonate of Soda in glass of cool water, at the same intervals
During the third day take two doses of half teaspoonful of Bicarbonate of Soda in glass of cool water morning and evening, and thereafter half teaspoonful in glass of cool water each morning until cold is cured
It's too late for elderberry tincture now, but you might want to make this for future attacks. Elderberry has been proven in laboratory studies to prevent the influenza virus from replicating-thereby preventing a virus overload so your immune system has an easier time of neutralizing the virus. It does NOT prevent the flu, nor does it work for the common cold.
At the first onset of symptoms, take 2 tablespoons every 6 hours for 8-10 days. You will start feeling better in only 2-3 days, but the virus will still be present so you need to take it for the full cure- just like antibiotics.
To make the tincture- fill a quart jar about 1/3 full of dried elderberries and fill the jar with 80proof or stronger VODKA. Don't use any other type of alcohol, it apparently doesn't work. Shake the capped bottle a couple of times, then store in a dark place for 7-10 days. Filter out the berries and discard them. FYI- 1 lb of dried elderberries will make 3 quarts of tincture.
We do the wet sock treatment. Right before bedtime get your feet nice and warm. Run them under warm water in the tub, take a bath or shower, or my favorite method, tuck them under a dog for a bit... then put on a pair of socks that have been rung out in cold water and over those put on a pair of wool socks. Then get right into bed, with an extra blanket or Golden Retriever over your feet to warm them up. For whatever reason this helps to draw mucous out of your head. Whenever I do this with a cold I wake up being able to breathe through my nose a lot better-without any meds that make me feel groggy all day!