Colds are inevitable, but there are ways to stay healthy without succumbing to them.
Vitamin C supplements or food rich in Vitamin C such as citrus fruit may help bolster your immune system and shorten the duration of a cold.
Hydrating is another key way to combat colds and ease congestion, helping prevent dehydration and loosen mucous. Aim for 64 ounces per day – consult your physician about what amount may work for you!
Elderberry
Elderberry is one of the best natural treatments for colds and flu. Studies have demonstrated its efficacy at alleviating symptoms while speeding recovery time.
Berries also contain antioxidants which may protect you against the damaging effects of free radicals accumulated due to smoke, allergens or pollution exposure; which increases your risk of disease.
Elderberry contains proteins that bind to viruses that cause illness, helping prevent them from invading your system. Furthermore, research shows it to boost levels of antiviral antibodies, giving your immune system the means to fight an infection successfully.
Linden flower
Linden flowers are an effective natural treatment for colds that soothe the throat while decreasing mucus production, helping prevent fever in addition to treating any existing symptoms.
Linden flowers belong to a class of herbs known as nervines, or those that relax the nervous system and soothe tense emotions. Linden flowers were historically used to treat various health problems including anxiety, indigestion, high blood pressure and irregular heartbeats (McIntyre n.d).
There are various species of linden trees, but the two most prevalent in Europe and North America are Tilia cordata and Tilia platyphyllos. Both varieties feature heart-shaped leaves with clusters of small white to yellow flowers adorning them in spring.
Red clover
Red clover is a natural remedy for colds, coughs and bronchitis. It helps clear away phlegm in the respiratory tract while simultaneously reducing fever and improving circulation.
Rehmannia can also serve as an effective herbal remedy for women experiencing premenstrual syndrome and menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and fatigue. Rehmannia contains isoflavones similar to estrogen that help regulate hormone levels while helping prevent mood swings.
This herb can also help those suffering from high cholesterol or dandruff. Furthermore, it has the power to strengthen hair and decrease brittle nails.
Red clover’s isoflavones may help lower the risk of cancer. By blocking cancer cell growth and inducing apoptosis – killing off cells – they reduce cancer’s occurrence.
Isoflavones found in this herb have been shown to be effective against breast, prostate and endometrial cancer. Since these isoflavones can act like estrogen, however, pregnancy should be approached carefully when using this herb and any known hormonal conditions should be disclosed prior to use.
Spearmint
Spearmint is an effective herbal treatment for colds, coughs, sinusitis and bronchitis. It clears nasal congestion while soothing an irritated throat and aiding proper digestion.
Also helps relieve abdominal discomfort and bloat. Plus, its carvone-containing essential oil eases digestive spasms while increasing mineral absorption from food sources.
Spearmint offers numerous health advantages, such as its antibacterial properties. These properties help prevent infections caused by pathogens like Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli; in addition, spearmint may improve lung health by reducing inflammation and improving breathing.
Studies suggest that it can also have anti-androgenic properties, lowering male hormones that contribute to acne and treating hirsutism – where an individual produces too much testosterone – in women.