Cold comforts: From OTC Japanese drugs to home remedies for flu season

We are now into February, widely regarded by many as the coldest time of year in Japan. Indeed, I’ve found myself turning the heat up on the air conditioning a bit more in the last couple of weeks. My recent trip up to Tokyo was a bit of a shock to the system. I don’t remember the place ever being so cold!

Luckily, I’ve managed to keep the cold and flu symptoms at bay once again this year. Of course, getting a flu vaccination helps and may be something to consider.

Typically, you’ll need to arrange this yourself. Though I have heard of isolated cases where companies will arrange them for staff, in most Japanese workplaces vaccinations are not part of the annual health check. However, your local doctor can do this easily and it only costs a couple of thousand yen. It seems to work well, as I haven’t developed a full blown flu for more than five years since I started getting them.

However, flu is only part of the problem. A more persistent — and in my opinion more troublesome — issue is the runny nose, congestion, cough and headaches that seem to be an almost inevitability at this time of year.

Over the years in Japan, I have discovered a range of remedies to keep colds in check. Of course, your first port of call should be the local clinic and barring that, a good pharmacy. Here are some no-prescription-needed remedies you may want to consider if you’re suffering from any of the symptoms above and you can’t afford an extended absence at work.

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© GaijinPot