Natural remedies to combat the "cold" season!
As the seasons change, so does the chance of catching a cold. Common colds are a result of humans regularly coming into contact with viruses, which spread from person to person by sneezing, coughing, or shaking hands. While there's no cure for the common cold, there are plenty of natural remedies that can help you feel better!
"Give natural remedies a try before reaching for OTC remedies."
Here are 10 natural cold remedies to try:
1. Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated is essential when fighting off a cold. Drinking water will help to flush out bacteria and viruses that are responsible for causing colds.
2. Get plenty of rest: Getting enough sleep helps your body produce cytokines, a type of protein that fights off infection.
3. Honey: Drinking tea with honey can ease a sore throat and relieve coughs. Honey has been proven to have antibacterial and antiviral properties.
4. Ginger: Ginger is great for reducing inflammation in the body. It also helps to relieve a sore throat and coughs. You can try drinking ginger tea or adding fresh ginger to your meals.
5. Vitamin C: This powerful antioxidant helps to boost your immune system and can shorten the duration of colds. You can easily get your daily dose of vitamin C by eating fruits such as oranges and kiwis or by taking a supplement.
6. Garlic: Garlic has natural antibacterial and antiviral properties that can help to boost your immune system. Try adding minced garlic to your meals or eating a raw clove.
7. Eucalyptus oil: Inhaling eucalyptus oil can help to ease congestion. You can add a few drops to a bowl of hot water and inhale the steam.
8. Zinc lozenges: Zinc can shorten the duration of a cold and help to alleviate symptoms such as coughing and sneezing. You can find zinc lozenges at your local health food store.
9. Saltwater gargle: Gargling with salt water can help to relieve a sore throat and reduce inflammation. Mix a teaspoon of salt with warm water and gargle for 30 seconds.
10. Chicken soup: Chicken soup has been proven to reduce inflammation and relieve a congested nose. It also helps to keep you hydrated and provides essential nutrients to help you fight off a cold.
While it is important to seek medical attention if your symptoms worsen or persist for a prolonged period, these natural remedies are a great way to help soothe your symptoms and support your immune system. Remember to prioritize rest, hydrate well, and stay warm to make a swift recovery!