Fighting off the common cold is a hard hitting battle in itself. The inflammation of the respiratory track, sore throats, headaches, fatigue and extreme congestion of the nasal passage feel like ailments that can never be overcome in the moment when you are suffering from them. But with something as common as the common cold, heading over to the doctor’s office every now and then to pick up a pack of medicines can become a tiresome affair. In fact many people report cases of antibiotic resistance developed by the body due to over consumption of allopathic medication. So to help you out the next time you feel the sniffles coming along, we put together a list of some wonderful home remedies that can make you feel better in no time. Read on to find out more.
- Antiseptic Turmeric
Turmeric is an essential part of our cuisine and can be found in every Indian kitchen. But its uses are not limited to flavouring our food. Turmeric is also known for its antiseptic properties and has been used as a treatment for colds since centuries. Turmeric is high on curcumin content which is an anti-inflammatory component and it also acts as an antioxidant. When consumed with brewed tea or warm water, the dissolved turmeric helps loosen mucus from the congested nasal passages and alleviate pressure on the sinus giving instant relief by making it easier to breathe. To keep the cold away, restock your kitchen with the omnipotent turmeric today.
- Eucalyptus Steam
Steaming, or inhalation of hot vapours is a well known practice to moisten the sinuses and help relieve clogged mucus. But instead of just heating up water, adding a few drops of eucalyptus oil to it can effectively treat a persistent cold or sinus infection. The vapours from the water when combined with the anti-bacterial properties of eucalyptus travel far up the nasal passage and fight off the infection while simultaneously clearing and easing it up. To know more about the benefits of eucalyptus essential oil, click here.
- Apple Cider Vinegar To The Rescue
Raw and unfiltered apple cider vinegar when consumed in rationed quantities helps to thin down the mucus in the respiratory tract and relieve congestion and sinus pressure. It is best if consumed by adding it to warm water, but can alternatively also be taken with honey. The thinning out of the mucus clears the nasal passage and also relieves the headaches caused by the built up pressure on the tract.
- Honey
Honey is a very soothing ingredient which helps calm down the inflamed membranes of the respiratory systems. Consuming a spoonful of raw honey soothes an irritated throat that can help ease a cough. Adding honey to a glass of warm water also helps to unclog blocked nostrils by reducing the infection and calming the passage. To find out more about how honey can help you treat the cold, click here.
- Amla Boost
It is essential to consume sufficient quantities of Vitamin C when suffering from a cold to keep up the body’s immune system and resistance barriers. Amla, an ingredient rich in Vitamin C, can be your saviour when you are feeling down. Drink a glassful of warm water with amla powder every morning to improve your immunity and help you fight off the cold faster. To give your body the amla boost, click here.
- Go Green With Tea
Green tea has shown many anti-oxidant, antimicrobial and immune-stimulating properties and has been used as an efficient cure for the common cold. A cupful of green tea can reduce phlegm, relieve headaches, reduce feeling of nausea and calm the nerves when struck with a sinus infection or the common cold. While it cannot be used as the only treatment option, drinking 2 to 3 glasses of green tea daily can give significant relief when suffering from respiratory infections and congestions. To know more about its benefits, click here.
Next time you feel a cold creeping up on you, try a few of these natural treatments first before you head to the doctor’s office. You may even be surprised with their effectiveness.