If you’re suffering from a cold, there are many natural treatments that can help alleviate symptoms and make them go away faster.
One of these home remedies for congestion and improved breathing is lemon tea with honey. Studies have demonstrated its ability to relieve congestion and promote proper respiration.
Echinacea
Echinacea is an herbal supplement that may help your body fight colds. It comes in teas, capsules, pills or liquid extracts and should always be taken with food.
Researchers have demonstrated that echinacea can increase the number of white blood cells in your body, which are essential components of your immune system. These cells fight foreign invaders and play an essential role in maintaining good health.
These findings do not guarantee a cure for colds, however echinacea appears to have an indirect, modest effect which could have occurred by chance alone.
Garlic
Garlic has been used for thousands of years as a natural remedy to fight colds. It contains various beneficial properties like anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial compounds.
Garlic can help combat stress and fatigue by altering the response of your adrenal glands to strain.
Garlic contains natural antimicrobials, particularly allicin, that work to strengthen immunity and help your body combat germs and viruses.
One study found that people who took garlic supplements experienced fewer colds over a three-month period than those taking a placebo, though the duration of symptoms was similar between both groups.
Zinc
Many people who are sick often try to do whatever they can to reduce the severity of their symptoms. Zinc has been proven to reduce colds by one or two days on average.
Zinc is a mineral that you can obtain through several food sources. Additionally, you may take a zinc supplement or use lozenges containing zinc for extra support.
Before trying zinc supplements and lozenges, be sure to do your research. Zinc supplements and lozenges may have side effects such as a metallic taste or nausea.
According to a new study, high doses of zinc may provide some benefit for people suffering from colds. However, infectious disease experts interviewed by Healthline have conflicting views on its efficacy.
Vapor rub
Vapor rub is a widely used home remedy for colds that contains menthol, camphor and eucalyptus oil. It may also be used to relieve minor aches and pains but should never be ingested.
Recent studies have demonstrated that applying vapor rub to children’s neck and chest at bedtime reduced nocturnal cough, congestion and improved sleep for both kids and their parents. Furthermore, some studies suggest vapor rub may aid in improving breathing during slumber.
Vapor rub can provide a cooling sensation on the nasal passages, helping to relieve congestion. Additionally, it stimulates receptors in the brain that make you feel like you’re breathing more freely.
Lemons
Lemons are packed with antioxidants and an ideal natural cure for colds. Not only that, but their high vitamin C content boosts your immunity while fighting infection.
Lemon water contains potassium, which supports healthy kidney function and alkalizes both blood and urine. Regularly drinking lemon water can help detoxify the body and boost immunity levels.
Another effective way to beat a cold is by sipping ginger tea. Add one tablespoon fresh ginger root to boiling water and let steep for 10 minutes; strain through a mesh sieve. Combine this with lemon juice and honey for an effective beverage that will reduce your symptoms faster.