5 Effective Home Remedies To Calm Common Cold Infection
Come monsoon and many of us get worried about the onset of infections, mainly the ‘Common Cold’! Though people say, “It’s just a cold”, but being sick with cold isn’t fun even if you are resting at home. The combination of a runny nose, nasal congestion, sore throat, chills, and heaviness in the head, body aches, and fever can make anyone miserable.
Taking over-the-counter medicines is not always the best option as these might do more harm than good. Therefore, trusting on home remedies can actually help. As it cures the ailment without taking a heavy toll on the body. Read here 5 simple and effective home remedies that will help to heal the cold infection naturally.
Gargle with salt water
Dissolve 1/2 or 1/4 teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water. Take a sip of it and allow it to reach the back of the throat by gargling. This mixture of salt and warm water would help to relieve pain and reduce the inflammation in the throat.
Take steam with Eucalyptus oil
Steam inhalation is considered an effective method to treat the common cold. For better results prefer taking a steam with a drop of Eucalyptus oil. It would surely give relief from cold infection.
Sip on some chicken soup
Sipping on the chicken soup can reduce the severity of the common cold by limiting the progression of Neutrophils - one of the prime components in the immune system which immediately defend against infections. Chicken soup, which inhibits the movement of these Neutrophils, is, therefore, an excellent anti-inflammatory agent that help soothe the discomfort of cold.
Have a cup of thyme and sage tea
Thyme and sage tea is very helpful in treating all kinds of respiratory infections like the common cold and even strengthen the lungs. Mix one and a half cup of hot water with 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme and 1/2 teaspoon of dried sage and let it infuse under the lid for 10 -15 minutes. Strain the concoction and add 1/4 teaspoon of lemon juice in it. If you want you can sweeten your tea with honey. Sip on it while it’s still warm. Make sure to avoid this tea during pregnancy and breastfeeding!
Say no to dairy and sugary food
During the common cold, dairy and sugar products should be avoided at all costs. Sugary products and milk, when taken during a cold infection, may slow down the functionality of the immune system. Low immunity can further scale up the severity of infections. Therefore better avoid these products until you get rid of the cold completely.
If you feel sick despite practicing these remedies for a week, consult your doctor to get a medical help. It might be more than a ‘Common Cold’!
For any query related to Ayurvedic treatment for cold, cough and other seasonal conditions, consult an Ayurveda Specialist at www.healthcaremagic.com
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