Colds are common viral infections that affect the nose, throat, and sinuses. They can cause symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, sore throat, cough, headache, and fever. While there is no cure for a cold, there are some home remedies that can help you feel better and recover faster. Here are some of the best home remedies for colds that you can try at home.
Chicken soup
Chicken soup is a classic cold remedy that has been used for centuries. It is not only a comforting food that provides hydration, but it also contains nutrients that support your immune system. Some studies suggest that chicken soup may also have anti-inflammatory effects that can help reduce the congestion and inflammation caused by a cold1.
You can make your own chicken soup with chicken, carrots, celery, onion, and herbs. Alternatively, you can use bone broth, which may also have health benefits. If you are using canned soup, opt for low-sodium varieties to avoid excess salt intake.
Ginger
Ginger is a spicy root that has antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. It can help reduce muscle pain, nausea, and sore throat associated with a cold2. Ginger may also have antiviral effects that can prevent or fight off the cold virus3.
You can make ginger tea by simmering a few slices of raw ginger root in boiling water. You can also add honey and lemon to enhance the flavor and benefits. Honey has antibacterial and cough-suppressant properties, while lemon has vitamin C and antioxidants.
Garlic
Garlic is another potent herb that has antimicrobial and possibly antiviral properties. It contains a compound called allicin, which is responsible for its strong smell and taste. Allicin may help reduce the severity and duration of cold symptoms by boosting your immune system and fighting off the virus4.
You can add more garlic to your diet by eating it raw or cooked in your meals. You can also take garlic supplements or capsules, but consult your doctor before doing so. Garlic may interact with some medications or cause side effects such as bad breath, stomach upset, or bleeding problems.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an essential nutrient that plays a role in immune function, wound healing, and antioxidant defense. It may also help prevent or treat colds by reducing the risk of infection, shortening the duration of symptoms, and improving the outcome of complications5.
You can get vitamin C from various fruits and vegetables, such as oranges, grapefruits, kiwis, strawberries, broccoli, peppers, and spinach. You can also take vitamin C supplements or lozenges, but do not exceed the recommended daily intake of 90 milligrams for men and 75 milligrams for women. Too much vitamin C can cause diarrhea, nausea, or kidney stones.
Salt water
Salt water is a simple and effective remedy for sore throat and nasal congestion caused by a cold. Salt water can help soothe the irritated mucous membranes in your throat and nose by reducing inflammation and loosening mucus. It can also flush out bacteria and viruses that may be causing the infection6.
You can make your own salt water solution by dissolving 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of salt in an 8-ounce glass of warm water. Gargle with this solution for a few seconds and spit it out. Repeat several times a day until you feel better. You can also use a nasal spray or a neti pot to rinse your nasal passages with salt water.
Other tips
Other ways to treat symptoms and recover from a cold include:
- Resting: Your body needs rest to heal from a cold. Try to get enough sleep and avoid strenuous activities.
- Staying warm: Keep yourself warm by wearing layers of clothing, using blankets, or drinking hot beverages.
- Drinking plenty of fluids: Water, juice, herbal tea, or warm lemon water with honey can help keep you hydrated and loosen congestion.
- Taking over-the-counter pain relievers: Acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil), or aspirin (Bayer) can help reduce fever, headache, or body aches caused by a cold. However, do not give aspirin to children or teenagers who have chickenpox or flu-like symptoms because it can cause Reye’s syndrome, a rare but serious condition.
- Using a humidifier or a vaporizer: Adding moisture to the air can help ease breathing and reduce irritation in your throat and nose.
- Using ointments or essential oils: Applying menthol or eucalyptus ointments to your chest or nose can help clear your airways and relieve congestion. You can also inhale steam with a few drops of essential oils such as peppermint, lavender, or tea tree oil.
When to see a doctor
Most colds are mild and go away on their own within a week or two. However, some people may develop complications or more serious infections, such as sinusitis, bronchitis, pneumonia, or ear infections. You should see a doctor if you have any of the following signs or symptoms:
- A fever higher than 100.4°F (38°C) that lasts more than three days
- Severe or persistent headache, sore throat, cough, or chest pain
- Trouble breathing, wheezing, or shortness of breath
- Thick, green, or bloody mucus from your nose or mouth
- Ear pain, swelling, or discharge
- Signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth, thirst, dizziness, or reduced urine output
Summary
Colds are common viral infections that can cause various symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, sore throat, cough, headache, and fever. While there is no cure for a cold, there are some home remedies that can help you feel better and recover faster. These include chicken soup, ginger, garlic, vitamin C, salt water, and other tips. However, if your symptoms are severe or do not improve within a few days, you should see a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
I hope you found this blog post helpful and informative. If you have any questions or feedback, please let me know in the comments section below. Thank you for reading! 😊
Learn more:
1. microsoftstart.msn.com 2. yahoo.com 3. msn.com 4. mayoclinic.org 5. healthline.com 6. medicalnewstoday.com 7. microsoftstart.msn.com