Banish the sniffles instantly with these 6 miraculous natural cold remedies - Try them out!
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Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before making any changes to your health regimen.
As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, it's not just the pumpkin spice and cozy sweaters that herald the arrival of fall—it's also the season of sniffles, sneezes, and sore throats.
While there’s no magic cure to fend off the common cold, simply managing the symptoms and boosting your immune system can help by a big margin. While over-the-counter cold medications may help, most people prefer to avoid them.
Here’s an arsenal of natural remedies that can help you ease the common cold and recover with speed. Let's explore six immune-boosting and time-tested strategies that can help you banish those bothersome cold symptoms.
1. Elderberry: The Ancient Immune Booster
Elderberries are not just a treat for the palate; they're a boon for your health. These small, dark berries from the Sambucus nigra tree are brimming with vitamins and antioxidants, and they have a storied history of medicinal use.
Hippocrates himself was a fan, and modern research supports his wisdom. Studies have shown that elderberry extract, when taken early in the course of a cold, can shorten the duration and lessen the severity of symptoms.
Just stay away from raw elderberries as unripe ones contain toxins that can cause nausea and diarrhea, as per the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.
2. Chicken Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Cure
Chicken soup isn't just soul food; it's a scientifically-supported remedy for the common cold–even being prescribed as a cure for respiratory illnesses in 12th century Egypt.
Its anti-inflammatory properties can help ease the symptoms of respiratory illnesses. The steam from a hot bowl of chicken soup can also help clear nasal passages, while the nutrients from the chicken and vegetables bolster your body's defenses.
Dr. Stephen Rennard from the University of Nebraska Medical Center also studied its effects and revealed that each individual vegetable and the broth of the chicken soup recipe helped reduce inflammation.
3. Salt Water Gargle: The Simple Soother
A sore throat can be one of the most irritating symptoms of a cold, but a simple salt water gargle can provide much-needed relief. Dissolving half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and gargling can help reduce throat pain, ease swallowing, and even reduce swelling.
A study reported that people with throat inflammation caused by viruses or allergies, upon gargling salt water three times a week for one week, reported less throat pain and swelling compared to those who used antibacterial mouthwash.
It's a quick, cost-effective, and comforting solution that can be used by adults and children who have mastered the art of gargling.
4. Honey: Nature's Sweet Healer
Honey is more than just a natural sweetener; it's a powerhouse of health benefits. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties make it an excellent remedy for coughs and sore throats.
A spoonful of honey can soothe irritation and suppress the cough reflex, making it easier for you and your loved ones to get a good night's sleep. Try 1 to 2 teaspoons of honey on its own or stir it into a warm drink like tea or hot water.
5. Hydration: The Key to Recovery
Staying well-hydrated is crucial when fighting off a cold. Fluids help thin mucus and maintain proper nasal drainage.
While water is the gold standard, don't overlook other hydrating options like herbal teas, broths, and fruit juices. And don't forget that fruits and vegetables can also contribute to your daily fluid intake.
Keep an eye on the color of your urine—it should be a pale yellow if you're properly hydrated.
6. Sleep: The Unsung Hero of Healing
Never underestimate the power of a good night's sleep, especially when you're battling a cold.
Sleep is when your body goes into overdrive to fight off infections. Adults should aim for at least seven hours of sleep, while teens and younger children need even more.
To improve sleep quality when you're congested, elevate your head, use a humidifier, or take a warm shower before bed. A cup of caffeine-free tea with honey can also set the stage for a restful night.
Do you have your own tried-and-true cold remedies? Share them in the comments below!
As the leaves turn and the air grows crisp, it's not just the pumpkin spice and cozy sweaters that herald the arrival of fall—it's also the season of sniffles, sneezes, and sore throats.
While there’s no magic cure to fend off the common cold, simply managing the symptoms and boosting your immune system can help by a big margin. While over-the-counter cold medications may help, most people prefer to avoid them.
Here’s an arsenal of natural remedies that can help you ease the common cold and recover with speed. Let's explore six immune-boosting and time-tested strategies that can help you banish those bothersome cold symptoms.
1. Elderberry: The Ancient Immune Booster
Elderberries are not just a treat for the palate; they're a boon for your health. These small, dark berries from the Sambucus nigra tree are brimming with vitamins and antioxidants, and they have a storied history of medicinal use.
Hippocrates himself was a fan, and modern research supports his wisdom. Studies have shown that elderberry extract, when taken early in the course of a cold, can shorten the duration and lessen the severity of symptoms.
Just stay away from raw elderberries as unripe ones contain toxins that can cause nausea and diarrhea, as per the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health.
Elderberry may reduce the length and severity of cold symptoms when taken early during an infection, according to some studies. Image source: Pexels / Susanne Jutzeler.
2. Chicken Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Cure
Chicken soup isn't just soul food; it's a scientifically-supported remedy for the common cold–even being prescribed as a cure for respiratory illnesses in 12th century Egypt.
Its anti-inflammatory properties can help ease the symptoms of respiratory illnesses. The steam from a hot bowl of chicken soup can also help clear nasal passages, while the nutrients from the chicken and vegetables bolster your body's defenses.
Dr. Stephen Rennard from the University of Nebraska Medical Center also studied its effects and revealed that each individual vegetable and the broth of the chicken soup recipe helped reduce inflammation.
3. Salt Water Gargle: The Simple Soother
A sore throat can be one of the most irritating symptoms of a cold, but a simple salt water gargle can provide much-needed relief. Dissolving half a teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water and gargling can help reduce throat pain, ease swallowing, and even reduce swelling.
A study reported that people with throat inflammation caused by viruses or allergies, upon gargling salt water three times a week for one week, reported less throat pain and swelling compared to those who used antibacterial mouthwash.
It's a quick, cost-effective, and comforting solution that can be used by adults and children who have mastered the art of gargling.
4. Honey: Nature's Sweet Healer
Honey is more than just a natural sweetener; it's a powerhouse of health benefits. Its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties make it an excellent remedy for coughs and sore throats.
A spoonful of honey can soothe irritation and suppress the cough reflex, making it easier for you and your loved ones to get a good night's sleep. Try 1 to 2 teaspoons of honey on its own or stir it into a warm drink like tea or hot water.
Just remember, honey is not suitable for infants under one year due to the risk of botulism. Image source: Pexels / Three-shots.
5. Hydration: The Key to Recovery
Staying well-hydrated is crucial when fighting off a cold. Fluids help thin mucus and maintain proper nasal drainage.
While water is the gold standard, don't overlook other hydrating options like herbal teas, broths, and fruit juices. And don't forget that fruits and vegetables can also contribute to your daily fluid intake.
Keep an eye on the color of your urine—it should be a pale yellow if you're properly hydrated.
6. Sleep: The Unsung Hero of Healing
Never underestimate the power of a good night's sleep, especially when you're battling a cold.
Sleep is when your body goes into overdrive to fight off infections. Adults should aim for at least seven hours of sleep, while teens and younger children need even more.
To improve sleep quality when you're congested, elevate your head, use a humidifier, or take a warm shower before bed. A cup of caffeine-free tea with honey can also set the stage for a restful night.
Do you have your own tried-and-true cold remedies? Share them in the comments below!
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