Beating Common Cold Naturally

Colds and flu are caused by viral infections and are highly contagious. Coughing and sneezing in a confined space can easily spread an infection, since the mucus in the nose and throat of cold sufferers is full of viruses.

These viruses can survive for several hours on objects such as door knobs and telephones, so it is a good idea to wash your hands frequently if people around you have got cold.

The chances of infection are heightened by stress, exhaustion, chronic sickness or depressiondefine – all of which lower the body’s resistance.

Natural Remedies For Cold:

• Drink plenty of fluids when you have cold – at least 6-8 drinks a day – in order to combat dehydration and keep mucus on the move. Include plenty of water, and hot drinks made with the juice of a lemon and a teaspoon of honey in a glass of hot water. The lemon is rich in Vitamin C and the honey helps to soothe a sore throat.

• A traditional hot toddy, made with lemon or orange juice, honey, a single measure of alcohol (such as whiskey) and boiling water is a time honored cold remedy. It is comforting and soothing and may help you to sleep.

• Inhale steam to relieve a stuffed nose. Half-fill a bowl with hot water, put a towel over your head to trap the steam and inhale for a few minutes at a time. Add some eucalyptus oil to the water for an effective decongestant.

• Aromatherapy oils can be used to keep the nasal passage clear. Mix few drops of eucalyptus with grapeseed or wheatgerm oil and rub it on your chest, or add few drops to some water in a vaporizer.

• Allow your body to rest and recover when suffering from a bout of cold or flu. If you insist on carrying on as normal, you will hinder the body’s cold-fighting efforts and spread the infection to other people.

• When you feel well enough, take a gentle walk and get some fresh air

Though complications are rare, but a cold may make the body more susceptible to secondary bacterial infections, such as bronchitis, earache or sinusitis. You may need treatment if you have any of the following symptoms;

• A cough that becomes painful

• You experience facial pain

• One or both ears become painful

• You have problems swallowing

• You experience breathing difficulties

• There are traces of blood in you phlegm

• You have a high temperature that lasts for more than 48 hours.