{"id":2668,"date":"2019-01-21T05:39:39","date_gmt":"2019-01-21T05:39:39","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/simplyhealth.io\/?p=2668"},"modified":"2021-05-24T15:24:31","modified_gmt":"2021-05-24T15:24:31","slug":"20-classic-home-remedies-for-the-cold","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/simplyhealth.io\/20-classic-home-remedies-for-the-cold\/","title":{"rendered":"20 Classic Home Remedies for the Cold"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

The expression \u201ccommon cold\u201d implies that it is something that happens to most of us once in a while. However, there is a silver lining to this dark cloud of the common cold. Since it is so widespread, there are so many tried and true remedies that are located right in your kitchen cabinet, or at least, in the supermarket. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since these remedies are safe, natural and inexpensive, you can try several and see what works best for you. In many cases, people have to try several home remedies until they find the one or two that are perfect for them. In addition, the effectiveness of these solutions can depend on which symptoms are more dominant. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

For instance, a stuffy nose and congestion can be solved by garlic or chicken soup whereas probiotics and Vitamin C can get at the root causes. Garlic and Vitamin C can also prevent colds from developing in the first place.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

1. Honey<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Honey <\/a>has been prized since the beginning of time for its many health benefits. Honey is an antioxidant that can fight free radicals and prevent them from introducing toxins into your system. Honey can also fight infections that can result from the cold. One of the most famous healing properties of honey is its tendency to suppress coughs and ease sore throats. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

In one study, children who were given honey with tea at bedtime made coughing less severe. However, be careful about giving honey to children younger than two years old. Honey is easy to add to your diet, and in the case of colds, is best combined with tea and lemon. Many singers swear by tea with honey and lemon prior to a performance for its ability to clear phlegm. You can also take honey directly for a delicious treat when you aren\u2019t feeling well.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

2. Chicken Soup<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When you tell someone you have a cold, an immediate response may be, \u201cGo have some chicken soup.\u201d Grandmothers since time immemorial have sworn by chicken soup as a remedy for the common cold. The warm, nurturing feeling that homemade chicken soup gives you may have a healing benefit all it\u2019s own, but there is also science behind this traditional remedy. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hot liquids, in general, can loosen up the phlegm and can help your body cleanse it from the system. In addition, chicken soup<\/a> can slow down the movement of certain white blood cells called neutrophils. When neutrophils slow down, they tend to stay in certain areas of the body and can fight infection more effectively, Chicken soup works well against respiratory symptoms associated with the cold. Another benefit of chicken soup is it can help you stay hydrated and consume vitamins and minerals when you otherwise may not feel like eating regular meals. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

3. Garlic<\/strong> <\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Garlic <\/a>is often touted for its healing properties. It has been shown to lower serum cholesterol and to serve as an antimicrobial. Garlic can fight infections and even the common cold. The active ingredient in garlic is allicin which fights bacteria. You can take garlic capsules if you are feeling the early symptoms of the cold or as a preventative measure or eat crushed garlic on a daily basis. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The strong fragrance and flavor of garlic can quickly clear the sinuses. Garlic can boost the immune system but has to be taken daily to have a consistent effect since it tends to leave the system quickly. In one study, those who took garlic supplements have a 60% lower chance of developing colds and a 70% quicker recovery time. Adding garlic to your dishes can add health benefits, but garlic is more effective raw or in capsule form.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

4. Echinacea<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

When cold and flu season hits, many people will recommend taking echinacea <\/a>root. For decades, this herb has received media attention for its healing properties and ability to boost the immune system, but this \u201csecret\u201d was known for centuries by Native Americans who used it to fight infection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The active ingredient of echinacea is flavonoids that have multiple health benefits such as boosting immunity and fighting inflammation. Although research on this herb has been mixed, one study indicated that echinacea can reduce colds by 50 percent or at least shorten the duration of the condition once it develops. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Although locating the actual plant may be a challenge, it is easy to find echinacea in capsule form or you can drink a tea form of the herb. Echinacea doesn\u2019t necessarily work instantly, and for best results, it is a good idea to take the capsules daily during cold and flu season.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

5. Probiotics<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

The first association many people have with bacteria is not a positive one. Bacteria is the cause of infections and illnesses. However, there are many forms of bacteria that are not only healthy but enable our bodies to function. The digestive tract depends on certain bacteria, and eating probiotics, foods with \u201cgood\u201d bacteria, can promote healthy digestion and fighting infections and colds. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Probiotics <\/a>helps the immune system work properly and can prevent colds and flu from happening in the first place. The most famous form of probiotics is yogurt, but it is important to be selective and choose yogurt that has active yogurt cultures or healthy bacteria. When you are suffering from a cold, you may not want to eat dairy, so there are other probiotics that can be more appealing, such as sauerkraut, kefir, kombucha or tempeh. Some research has shown that eating probiotic foods can reduce the risk of upper respiratory infection.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

6. Vitamin C <\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Vitamin C<\/a> is nearly as famous as chicken soup as a remedy for the common cold. The old expression \u201cAn apple a day keeps the doctor away,\u201d might as well be replaced with \u201corange.\u201d Many health experts recommend taking large doses of vitamin C either through citrus fruits such as oranges and grapefruits as well as leafy green vegetables and peppers or taking supplements. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Vitamin C can strengthen the immune system and can fight colds and infections when they begin as well as preventing them before they start. Consumption of vitamin C can reduce the duration and severity of the cold. If you are taking Vitamin C to prevent or treat cold, it is important to take it regularly since the vitamin is water-soluble and leaves your system regularly. For Vitamin C to work, it has to be taken daily in the form of orange juice or supplements.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

7. Salt Water<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Saltwater <\/a>is a quick, effective way to deal with the buildup of phlegm and mucus in the respiratory system. It can also ease a sore throat, although the process itself may be less than pleasant. However, the result can more than outweigh the temporary discomfort associated with gargling saltwater. Science has backed up what grandmothers have known for generations that gargling with salt water can relieve the symptoms of a sore throat. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, the effect may be temporary, which means that you may have to perform the procedure several times a day. It is even helpful to put saltwater up your nose if you feel intense congestion. Just as with gargling with salt water, the procedure may not be so much fun, but it does the trick. You may experience an immediate benefit of reduced mucus, but it should be repeated every few hours.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

8. Vapor Rub<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This remedy may come out of your medicine chest rather than your kitchen cabinet, but it is a common fixture in many homes for good reason. Vapor rub<\/a> has been used for generations to relieve congestion, particularly right before bedtime. It may have a strong odor, which is the reason why it is used at home at night rather than prior to going to work or school. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Applying some vapor rub topically can open airway passages and make breathing easier. It can also reduce coughing and promote a good night\u2019s sleep even though you are not feeling well. Vapor rub can help children sleep better, but avoid using it as a remedy on children 2 years old or younger. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Simply rubbing a bit of vapor rub under your nose or on your chest can help you start breathing normally right away. Keep vapor rub away from small children and pets because it can be toxic if consumed orally. <\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

9. Diffusing
<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

There are two ways to diffuse at home. The first and easiest option is purchasing a diffuser from a retailer. All you need to do is add your choice of essential oil<\/a>, some water, enter your desired settings, and you\u2019re ready to go.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you don\u2019t have a diffuser lying around, you can create the same effect using household items, while you wait for your diffuser to arrive in the mail. Take a medium-sized bowl and fill it two-thirds of the way with boiling water. Add your choice of essential oils and drape a large bath towel over your head. Place the bowl between your knees or on the floor under your face and breathe deeply.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The hot vapor combined with the therapeutic properties of the oil enters your respiratory tract and lungs, soothing inflammation while killing bacteria causing your infection. Repeat this therapy every hour or two depending on your condition.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We prefer diffusers because you can set them up to keep your bedroom at a stable relative humidity during the night while you sleep.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

10. Lavender Extract
<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

After a few hours, the symptoms of viral infection begin to torment the nervous system<\/a>. You develop a light fever that begins to escalate slowly, your sinus blocks up, and you start to feel the signs of congestion.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Battling a cold is no fun, but you can soothe your symptoms using essential oils as a home remedy. Using a few drops of lavender extract oil in your diffuser helps to reduce the symptoms of a headache, sinus congestion, and fever.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lavender is a potent natural herbal extract from the flowers of this pretty plant. The polyphenol antioxidants found in lavender have tremendous benefits for chapped and inflamed skin around the edges of the lips and nostrils.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ensure you purchase genuine lavender oil extract, that\u2019s 100-percent pure. Some brands market the oil as \u201cpure,\u201d but this does not necessarily mean that the oil is 100-percent extract. Some brands dilute the oil with other ingredients to make perfumes and toiletry products.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

11. Lemon Balm Extract
<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This lemon-scented herb comes from the same family as mint. The shrub has the same visual characteristics, and similar medicinal properties as well. People with a cold can use chapstick infused with lemon balm to prevent and treat cold sore outbreaks.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lemon balm<\/a> has potent antibacterial and antiseptic properties making it an ideal home remedy for your cold. Search your online health retailer for lemon balm tea and drink a cup in the morning to benefit from the polyphenol antioxidants found in the leaves of this plant.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

A cup of lemon balm tea helps to relieve symptoms of anxiety and stress that occur as a result of your cold. Some people have a fear that they are missing out on crucial meetings or activities, and a cup of lemon balm tea will help you clear your mind and relax.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Lemon balm tea can also assist your body in dealing with symptoms of a headache and sinus congestion as well. Drinking the tea before bed will help you relax and fall asleep faster.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

12. Tea Tree Oil
<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Modern medical science studied the effects of tea tree oil on human health as far back as the 1920s. Over the last 100-years, we\u2019ve come to understand that this spiny-leaved herb gains its potent antimicrobial, antibacterial, and antiviral properties from over 100 plant-based terpenes.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Of the 100 polyphenol compounds in tea tree oil<\/a>, terpinene-4-ol, appears to have the highest concentration in the plant extract, and the best medicinal properties. While science has drawn back the veil on the mystery ingredients in tea tree oil, its use in traditional medicine across most Asian countries goes back for thousands of years.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Purchase some extract from your health retailer and add a few drops to your diffuser. Breathing in the warm steam helps to soothe the inflammation and pain associated with a sore throat. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Never apply tea tree oil directly to your skin as this can lead to extreme skin irritation and the development of a rash in the affected area.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

13. Green Tea and Lemon
<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Try this herbal and citrus infusion for relief from the inflammatory effects or your cold. Green tea<\/a> contains the catechins, \u201cECGC,\u201d which have potent anti-inflammatory properties assisting in the reduction of sinusitis, as well as soothing symptoms of a sore throat.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Add the rind of one lemon to your tea. The limonoid polyphenols found in the outer layers of the lemon skin have potent antiviral, antibacterial, and antiseptic properties.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Boil a kettle of water and let it cool for 3-minutes before adding the water to your green tea. Rapidly boiling water may damage the polyphenols and catechins in the drink, rendering them useless.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Steep the tea for three to five minutes depending on your taste. Drink the beverage as warm as possible to assist with the absorption of the nutrients and antioxidants into your throat. The natural antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties of the beverage should provide a soothing effect from the first sip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

14. Hot Toddy
<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This traditional remedy goes as far back as the 1800s where it was one of the original western tonics to treat symptoms of a cold. As soon as you notice signs of infection<\/a>, take a tumbler whiskey glass and add two tablespoons of raw honey. Add a shot of brandy and the juice of half an orange. Fill the glass with hot water and drink it as warm as you can., Remember to stir before every sip.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The active antiseptic and antimicrobial properties of the honey combined with the alcohol and the orange juice to provide a soothing, warm drink that stops the itching in the back of your throat, preventing a mild cough from turning chronic.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We don\u2019t recommend this remedy for anyone under drinking age. However, if your kids need a soothing beverage, try the recipe without the shot of brandy. The therapeutic properties of the honey will still provide relief.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

15. Curcumin
<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Many forms of traditional medicine embrace turmeric for having potent anti-inflammatory properties that can assist the body in dealing with a wide variety of inflammatory diseases. This bright yellow spice turns anything it touches golden. Used as a commercial dye, and flavoring for food – turmeric can spice a curry or stain a t-shirt.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Turmeric <\/a>also has benefits as a natural cold remedy. The active compound in the yellow spice, curcumin \u2013 has potent anti-inflammatory properties. Fortunately, modern nutritional science isolated curcumin from turmeric, and it\u2019s now available in capsule format.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Always ensure that your curcumin supplement contains piperine. Curcumin has lo9w bioavailability and the presence of piperine increase bioavailability of curcumin by up to 300-percent.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Taking a curcumin supplement when you first notice the signs of a cold will help your body fight off the inflammatory effects of the disease and slow the rate of infection to other areas such as the sinus and lymph nodes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

16. Fish Oil
<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

As you can see, fighting the effects of inflammation is vital if you want to get ahead of your cold. Fish oil<\/a> is another anti-inflammatory compound that helps to bolster your immune system during a cold. Fish oil, particularly salmon and krill oil, contain high levels of the Omega-3 essential fatty acids – EPA and DHA.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Eicosapentaenoic acid and Docosahexaenoic acid, play a significant role in optimizing the function of the immune system, regulating blood glucose, maintaining cardiovascular function, and enhancing cognitive processes in the brain. Guidelines recommend you take between 3 and nine grams daily.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Fish oil comes in two formats; as cold-pressed gel capsules or a bottled liquid. We recommend you select the bottled and filtered version. Always ensure that your oil does not come from any sources of Norwegian salmon. Fish farms in Norway produce the most toxic food in the world, with over 3-times the levels of heavy metals and toxins than any other food.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

17. Oregano Oil
<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Traditional healers tracing back to the times of Ancient Greece have relied on the healing powers of the oregano herb. The shredded leaves of this natural remedy for a cold taste great on a pizza, and the extract of the leaves is an excellent way to reduce the symptoms of a sore throat.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Purchase a high-quality oregano oil extract from your online health retailer. When shopping for oregano oil<\/a> extract, try to source P73 oregano. The \u201cP73\u201d stands for, \u201c73-percent polyphenol count,\u201d which is the highest purity of oil available for purchase.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Add 10 to 15 drops to a glass of water. Drink the mixture three to four times daily to benefit from the antiviral and antibacterial properties of this herb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The active compounds in oregano, thymol, and Carvacrol, promote an increase in the body\u2019s natural temperature, inducing sweating that clears the virus through your lymph node glands, and helps to break a fever.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

18. Ginger
<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

This herbaceous perennials plant has use in traditional medicine for thousands of years. The dried root is shredded and added to teas and soups for a wide4 variety of medicinal remedies. Ginger <\/a>contains the potent plant polyphenol, gingerol. This compound has potent anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, and antibacterial properties that assist your body in driving out a cold.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Ginger also has a benefit to reduce any symptoms of nausea associated with a cold or flu infection. Gingerol soothes stomach discomfort and indigestion resulting from a weakened immune system, by improving the health of your gut biomes.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We recommend you add two teaspoons of ground ginger root to your green tea and lemon remedy. Let the herb steep with the other ingredients and then drink it as quickly as possible. Ginger provides a warm and soothing feeling on the back of your throat that calms down the itchy feeling of a dry cough.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

19. Nutrition
<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

It might surprise you to learn that your mom was right when she said, starve a fever, feed a cold.\u201d This adage is right in the sense that what you eat plays a significant role in the amount of time it takes for the cold to pass through your system. Your nutrition <\/a>also determines how long it takes your body to recover from the effects of the virus.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As soon as you feel a cold coming on, its best to start heading to the kitchen to make a batch of the chicken soup we talked about earlier. Your body needs calories to keep your metabolism active, fueling your immune system while enhancing its function.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Make sure that you have a good complex multivitamin on hand, and added sources of calcium and vitamin C as well. Boost your intake of Vitamin C to two-grams per day, and ensure your tasking your multivitamin complex.<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

\"\"<\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n

20. Stay Hydrated, Reduce Exposure, and Rest<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

In today\u2019s busy workplace environment, it’s challenging to take time off of work to rest and recover from a cold<\/a>. However, those people that push themselves too far will end up with the condition progressing into something more severe in consequence.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It\u2019s vital for infected individuals to take time off to rest and relax. The virus has to work its way through your system, and in 48-hours, you\u2019ll be feeling fine.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, if you decide to push yourself and go to work, you run the risk of infecting others in your office with the virus. Your boss will have a fit if you send everyone home with a cold. Stay home, put your feet up, wrap yourself in blankets, brew a cup of hot green tea with lemon, ginger, and honey, then startup Netflix and watch a movie.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Rest enhances recovery time. So, remember to reduce your exposure to the elements, and stay warm if you must venture outdoors.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\r\n

<\/div>