The common cold is a virus, or rather, lots of viruses-over 200, to be more specific. When you catch a cold the virus attaches itself to the mucous membranes of the nose and throat and essentially hijacks the cells that live there, forcing them to replicate more virus cells. Here are home remedies for common cold.

 

When your body tries to fight off the virus the symptoms pop up, like coughing, sneezing, a sore throat, general congestion and mild fatigue. Some of the common symptoms of a cold are headache, runny nose, cough, high fever, itchy eyes, sore throat, body aches and so on.

It is important to treat a cold before it leads to other infections like strep throat, bronchitis and pneumonia.

 

Common Causes of Cold

• Viruses (esp. rhinoviruses and corona viruses)
• Person to person (through cough, sneezing or hand contact)
• Psychological stress
• Allergic disorders
• Menstrual cycles

 

Home Remedies for Common Cold

 

Drink lots of fluids

It is recommended drinking eight glasses of water or juice per day when trying to power through the common cold. Staying hydrated helps moisturize the lining of the nose and throat, which makes mucus easier to clear. Avoid caffeinated or alcoholic drinks, as they can cause dehydration.

 

Honey

Honey can be important home remedies for common cold in soothing an irritated throat as well as shortening the lifespan of a cold. The high amount of nutrients and enzymes in honey help kill bacteria and viruses that cause colds.

Consume a mixture of one tsp of lemon juice and two tsp of honey. Take it every two hours to get immense relief from your cold and sore throat.

 

Steam

. Boil a pot of water on the stove and then slowly breathe in the steam. Be careful as steam can cause burns. If the steam makes your nasal passages burn, pull your head back slightly and breathe in more slowly.

 

Apple Cider Vinegar

Raw and organic apple cider vinegar is a quick and easy cold cure. It breaks up congestion and helps to alkalize the body. It can be added to a glass of water and taken as a tonic, or added to a mug of hot water with some honey as a tea.

 

Milk and turmeric

Warm milk and turmeric mixture is a popular and effective way to fight a cough and cold. This mixture is applicable for children and adults too. Turmeric and milk are also healthy ingredients needed for healthy living.

 

Cinnamon

Cinnamon can fight a common cold and help ease the pain of a dry or sore throat. Mix a tbsp of powdered cinnamon and two cloves of garlic in a glass of boiling water water and allow it to simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. Strain and drink it while it is still warm. For best results, you can add some honey as well. Drink this tea one to three times a day.

 

These home remedies for common cold should give you some relief from the symptoms of a common cold. But if the cold lasts longer than two weeks, you should consult a physician.