Common cold is a contagious illness that can be caused by different types of viruses. It is medically known as viral upper respiratory tract infection. The common symptoms of common cold are sneezing, running nose, cough, sore throat, watery eyes and nasal congestion.
Experts say that there is no cure for common cold. Though some other infections along with common cold can evolve into serious problems, when medical advice becomes essential. Some over-the counter medicines can simply bring relief from the symptoms of cold or shorten their duration. There are some
natural home remedies which can bring relief from the symptoms of cold.
Tips for cold relief
Blow the nose
The mucus in the nose must be blown out regularly in the right way, which is press one nostril with a finger and blow out through the other nostril. The body gets exhausted during cold, hence resting is the best remedy.
Treat the sore throat
Cold leads to develop a sore throat. Gargling with warm saltwater helps to moisten the throat and give temporary relief. A saline rinse clears the mucus and makes breathing easier. This can be done with a neti pot or a spray bottle in which the spout goes inside the nostril and washes the mucus out.
Hot drinks
This will help in getting rid of nasal congestion and prevent dehydration. It also soothes the inflamed membranes of the nose and throat caused by cold. A hot cup of tea or coffee before going to bed will give temporary relief and induce sleep.
Hot shower
The hot shower relaxes the body and moisturizes the nasal passage. The steam of the bath helps to keep the sinus clear and provide relief from stuffy nose and nasal congestion. A hot sponge bath before going to bed will help to keep the sinus clear from mucus all through the night. Hot or cold packs around the sinuses help in the congestion caused by cold. The greatest help while sleeping can be achieved by using an extra pillow as it will help in the drainage of the nasal passage.
Use a vapor rub
You can use vapour rub on the neck and chest to get relief from chest congestion. A small amount of rub can be put under the nose as well. This found to be very helpful in cough and nasal congestion. This is very simple and effective remedy for common cold.
Banish dry air
This can be done by having a cool mist humidifier in the bedroom. It will help to keep the throat moist while sleeping especially if one is breathing through the mouth.
Manage cough by taking anti cough suppressants at night
With the suppressant at night it will be easier for you to manage cough. On the other hand decongestants must be avoided at night as they can make the person restless and disturb sleep.
Avoid travelling by air
Another important advice to people suffering from cold or nasal congestion must try and avoid flying as the pressure during the landing and taking off of the aircraft can destroy the eardrums. This pressure can be relieved by eating a chewing gum or swallowing frequently while landing and taking off of the plane.
Home remedies for common cold
Garlic
The anti-bacterial properties of garlic are helpful in giving relief from the symptoms of common cold. It helps in opening the nasal passage and getting rid of toxins. Consume the paste of one garlic clove, lemon juice, honey and red chilli powder daily for few days. Alternatively boil a few cloves of garlic in water and add honey to it. Drink this mixture three times a day.
Honey
Honey is a great help in soothing an irritated throat. The enzymes and nutrients in honey kill the bacteria and viruses that cause cold. Simply mix honey and lemon juice and drink it every two hours to get instant relief from sore throat and cold.
Spice tea
Spice tea is a beneficial Ayurvedic remedy to treat common cold. The spices include coriander seeds, cumin seeds, fennel seeds and fenugreek seeds. These need to be roasted and ground to powder. Make tea with this spice powder by adding misri water and milk in boiling water. Sip it hot to get instant relief.
Ginger
The antiviral, expectorant and anti-inflammatory properties of ginger help to give relief from the symptoms of common cold. It can be eaten raw or used in making tea. Alternatively for running nose prepare a mixture of ginger powder, ghee and jiggery and consume it early morning on empty stomach.
Chicken soup
Chicken soup is a great help to treat the symptoms of common cold with the help of the essential nutrients and vitamins in it. It also boosts immunity and gives strength to the tired body. This is very nutritious and protein rich remedy
