It’s that time of year again. The sniffling in class becomes increasingly louder, cough drops get passed around like candy and absences get higher than the Monday after Block Party weekend. Getting a cold in college is like trying to run a race with a sprained ankle, it drags out each and every necessary step and makes you plain miserable, especially when you have to wake up for an 8 AM and walk to class in the single digit weather. Even though there isn’t an actual cure for the common cold, there are (thankfully!) many ways you can cut your cold short. So in spirit of the cold season, here are some of the best all natural ways to kick a cold, college budget approved!
Hydrate. This has got to be one of the most important steps in sickness recovery. A well hydrated body functions better all around, making it easier to get better faster as well as reduce sore throat and stuffy nose symptoms.
Honey and cinnamon. As well as boosting the immune system, honey and cinnamon both contain antioxidants to help fight free radicals in the body. The best part about this is it tastes great too! Put the combo on toast, in tea, or even straight on a spoon (honey also helps to relieve a sore throat, bonus!).
Get plenty of zzz’s. You want as much as your bodies energy to be directed towards battling the sickness, so make sure to get a full night’s sleep.
Oil of oregano. Consider this all natural remedy your new best friend. Oil of oregano is known for its antiviral, antibacterial, antifungal, and antiparasitic properties that help to fight off even the most stubborn symptoms including sore throat, sinus congestion, and even upset stomach. Dilute a few drops of the oil into some water (it has an extremely strong taste), or if you’re brave enough place the drops straight under your tongue. This is also great for stopping colds before they start, just take the oil when you feel the early symptoms coming on. You can get oil of oregano online or at a local natural health store.
Take a bath. Help open up your sinuses as well as relax your muscles with a hot bath (make sure to shut the door and turn off the fan to keep in steam). Throw in a handful of Epsom salts to also reduce inflammation both inside and outside the body.
Make sure you’re blowing your nose! Load up on travel tissues and put a pack in every bag you own. Mucus is your body’s way of trying to wash out some of the cold causing germs, so make sure to blow it out rather than sniff it back in.
Sip some hot tea. Green tea is known to help hydrate the body and boost its internal defenses. Add ginger to help sooth a sore throat and suppress a cough or lemon for a punch of vitamin C.
Good luck and feel better!