It’s about that time of year when we are all at our busiest and there couldn’t be a worse time to get a cold. However, fresher’s flu seems to be making its vicious comeback and despite some of our best efforts to avoid it, we aren’t all lucky enough to. Treating a cold can often be extremely difficult, as there isn’t actually a scientific cure for it. However, there are numerous natural treatments that can be just as effective as treating the common cold. There’s never a good time to get a cold, however, with these handy home remedies you can hopefully reduce its life span before it gets in the way of all those deadlines.
Vitamin C
I’m sure you’ve all heard it before but Vitamin C is one of the most effective natural remedies in treating a cold because it increases the production of white blood cells, and can also prevent the multiplication of viruses. You can buy Vitamin C pills over the counter at the chemist however; there are cheaper forms that are just as effective. Whilst oranges are a great source of Vitamin C it also comes in many other forms such as in lemons, cauliflower, strawberries, peaches, kiwis and tomatoes. So, to ward off these common winter illnesses boost your immune system with these natural sources of vitamin C.
Garlic
According to recent research, garlic contains a virus fighting ingredient (allicin) that can help reduce the symptoms of a cold, speed up the time you take to recover and can reduce your chances of catching another virus. The allicin in garlic encourages white blood cells to reproduce which boosts your body’s defence system. Sadly, this super ingredient is destroyed when garlic is cooked so to get the benefits garlic has to be eaten raw. However, if you can’t stomach it (and lets face it, not many of us can) then garlic tablets are available from most chemists.
Echinacea
Pronounce eck-in-a-sher; this wild flower comes from North America. Echinacea is believed to influence our immune systems, increasing the number of white blood cells in the body that fight off germs and stop viruses from spreading. Echinacea tinctures are available from health food shops or large supermarkets. If you are suffering from a cold then take three to four drops in water a few times a day.
Chicken Soup
Chicken soup has long been seen as the cure-all for common colds. Although this remedy lacks any scientific proof, adding some garlic to it would increase its effectiveness. Either way, chicken soup is packed full of nutrients and vitamins which are essential when your body is trying to fight off a cold.
Tea
The key to fighting any cold is to take in as much fluid as you can. Water is a great option however; a hot drink such as tea will help to sooth your sore throat and also prevent it from drying. Chamomile and green tea are particularly effective in treating a cold because they act as an antioxidant, which can help remove any toxins in the body. Warm water with honey and lemon is also another great soothing drink to have when you’re ill.
Salt
If you’re suffering from a blocked nose then gargling your own saline solution can help to reduce the swelling. Add a 1-teaspoon of salt to a cup of water and gargle a few times. Repeat this throughout the day and the inflammation and swelling should go down.
Steam
Steam can help to relieve the congestion that colds cause. Boil a pot of water and then slowly breathe in the steam. Take caution not to burn yourself, if you feel its too hot then pull your head back slightly and breathe in more slowly. Adding a few drops of Eucalyptus oil will increase its effectiveness. Eucalyptus oil has antibacterial effects and is a great decongestant.
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