No one likes getting sick, but there are natural treatments for a cold that may reduce its duration and improve your wellbeing.
Eating foods rich in vitamin C can strengthen your immunity and ease the symptoms of a cold. Fruits and vegetables such as kiwis, lemons, strawberries, bell peppers, dark leafy greens and broccoli are packed with this vital nutrient.
Garlic
Garlic is an herb with potent antiviral, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties that may help relieve cold symptoms. Additionally, its decongestant and expectorant effects help break up mucus crystals.
One small trial found that people who took garlic every day for three months experienced fewer colds than those taking a placebo. However, it wasn’t certain whether this was because it prevented occurrences of the common cold (defined by feeling low and/or sneezing) or simply reduced how many days participants were unwell during an episode of the virus.
Many cultures utilize garlic as a natural remedy for colds. Most of them involve consuming the cloves or applying them directly on your chest and throat to promote warmth.
Ginger
Ginger is an effective natural remedy to combat colds and flu. Additionally, it reduces inflammation and can provide soothing relief from a sore throat.
One way to enjoy ginger is by making a cup of ginger tea. Simply add one teaspoon of dried or sliced ginger (pinch it if you like!) to hot water and steep for five minutes; you may then add honey for sweetness if desired.
Drinking ginger tea is an effective natural remedy to fight off a cold, as its antibacterial and antiviral properties shield you against germs and toxins. Furthermore, it may reduce symptoms like coughing or headaches.
Diaphoretic substances in grapefruit promote sweating and warm the body from within, clearing away phlegm from lungs and digestive systems while strengthening circulation by increasing blood flow.
Peppermint
Peppermint is an effective natural remedy for colds and can also help alleviate symptoms associated with coughing and congestion. It contains menthol, which thins mucus, making it a useful decongestant.
Anti-inflammatory and fever reducer, this herb can be enjoyed as teas or mixed with water to make a relaxing beverage.
Peppermint essential oil can also be used as an herbal steam to clear sinuses and break up congestion. For added benefit, you can add two drops of essential oil to a mug of warm water before drinking it hot or cold.
Peppermint has many benefits, but it can also have side effects when taken internally. People suffering from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or taking medications that could cause heartburn should consult their doctor before using peppermint. Furthermore, taking peppermint may encourage the flow of bile from the gall bladder and make gallstone formation worse.
Lemon
Lemons are an ideal natural remedy for a cold, as they contain vitamin C – which is crucial for immune system health and can lead to serious health complications if lacking.
Take advantage of this important vitamin by drinking a glass of lemon juice daily to combat colds and flus. A daily dose of lemon juice provides about one-third your recommended intake of vitamin C, essential for strengthening immunity.
Furthermore, iron is abundant in red blood cells. By maintaining proper iron levels in the body, one can help protect themselves from anemia – a condition in which there are too few red blood cells present.
Another successful home remedy for a cold is lemon-honey tea. Not only does it relieve congestion in the nose and throat, but it’s antibacterial and antioxidant as well.