Little Known Herbal Remedies to Treat the Common Cold

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Whenever colds and flu start to come around, some people think of Guys and Dolls, the musical. An actress with a whiny nasal voice blurred into a Brooklyn accent, titters: “The grip, the grip, the post-nasal drip. With wheezes and sneezes and a sinus, that is a pip.”

Cold and flu germs both create respiratory blockage: a drippy nose, sneezing, a scratchy throat. Both may power a cough, but flu usually lingers in the lower respiratory tract.

Colds come on slowly and focus on the upper respiratory region. Besides attacking the uppermost respiratory system and dropping down, the flu can bring on headaches, muscle ache, fever and chills.

Many viruses, all contagious, bring cold and flu symptoms. Each type of virus can make deft changes, so coughs and the flu keep repeating. As no one has found a cure, most physicians treat with medicines meant to relieve symptoms. Often, these medications either interfere with the healing process or are clearly inappropriate for the condition.

A growing collection of research shows natural “cures” can help in fighting as they boost immunity and support the body’s natural healing leanings, reducing the time spent in misery.

Choosing from the following methods and design your own treatment to improve immunity, fight viruses and decrease symptoms.

Heat

Turn up the head when cold hits. Chicken soup and hot tea can ease the symptoms as the warmth moves toward your stomach. On its way, it loosens mucus which is easier to caught out when warm.

Steam works the same way. Sitting in the bathroom with a how shower running can also help relieve a stuffed nose.

Hydrate

When a cold strikes, the body makes more mucus which can dehydrate the body. Get extra fluids to help thin out the mucus and make it easier to blow or cough. Drinks with caffeine and alcohol can work to dehydrate the body — so stay away from coffee and booze.

Supplement

Some supplements have been to shorten colds As your physician about zinc and vitamin C. Tell your physician if you are beginning any new supplement or medication so the doctor can make sure it won’t interfere with any drug you are taking.

Ginger Tea

One of the best teas to sip when stuffed up, ginger tea, is delicious and warming. Capsaicin, piperine both provide numerous healing benefits. The tea also helps by providing extra fluids and heat.

Classic Cure

Old-time home remedies just work. They don’t need to be questioned on a molecular level or picked apart why — or why not — they work. Them simply “are” and have been for ages.

Three common elements — garlic, lemon and honey — are found in almost every class home remedy. They can be mixed in a choice of ways and is helpful for a cold that co-occurring with a sore throat and dry cough.

Honey/Onion Syrup

This formula works great for a cold’s wicked cough. The honey is good for nursing a sore esophagus while the onion provides antibacterial and anti-inflammatory actions. A simple recipe can be found here.

Chest Salve

This simple blend, consisting of coconut oil and peppermint essential oil, can be made quickly. The menthol in the essential oil creates a cooling sensation that makes you feel like you are breathing easier, even when all stuffed up.

Bath Salt

No, not an illicit drug. Blending scented bath salt is a fabulous way to ease a sick body and clear up lingering congestion. It is perfect when trying to get over a nasty cold — especially during the winter. This aromatherapy combined with the warmth of the bath can’t be beaten.

Radish

Two to three spicy dishes will work. The crisp, spicy vegetable is anti-septic and full of vitamins and minerals. Although horseradish is a powerful decongestant, regular garden radish works as well for many people. Eat a couple of radishes when feeling stuffed up and you will be clearing up in no time.

Despite these time-tested remedies, often colds and flu symptoms linger. If you don’t feel your symptoms are improving, be sure to consult with your physician.

Antibiotics Used Before “Modern” Medicine

Looking beyond the common cold and flu, our ancestors understand the healing power of natural antibiotics found in nature. Some of these include:

Oregano

Look beyond the antibacterial qualities, oregano can also aid with digestion and is helpful in weight loss. Carvacrol, an oil located in oregano has been used to attack the bacteria that lead to infections.

Apple Cider Vinegar

The benefits of a daily dose of apple cider vinegar include antiseptic properties and can help in everything from controlling weight to lowering cholesterol and the peril of cancer. A chemical-free anti-bacterial agent, apple cider vinegar may also be used locally to sanitize and disinfect.

Honey

As far back as the ancient Romans, honey was used to treat cuts and stop infection. Globally, countries still use honey as one of the greatest natural antibiotics, anti-inflammatories and cleansers. An enzyme in honey discharges hydrogen peroxide. This release aids the body in fighting infection and preventing bacterial growth. Mixing honey with cinnamon will boost the immune system as it strengthens the white blood corpuscles.

Turmeric

Turmeric can be eaten and used externally. These applications make it the perfect option for combating bacteria. Mixing turmeric with honey to form a paste, it can be applied to the skin to help protect against infections.

Jerry Nelson
Jerry Nelson is a freelance photojournalist who travels globally covering primarily social justice issues. Busy on assignment now in South America, Jerry is always interested in discussing future work opportunities.