6 Natural Cold Remedies That Work Just As Well As (If Not Better Than) Cold Medicine
Don’t run to the doctor’s office.
Unsplash By Kaitlin Livingston
This time of year, no matter where I go, I see people sniffing, sneezing, and coughing.
Avoiding coming down with something is nearly impossible when everyone around you has some sort of virus.
You could lock yourself in a room and come out when cold season is over, but that’s socially unacceptable and more than a little silly!
If you have a pesky cold or if you feel like one is on its way, here are some amazing home remedies you can use to feel better.
1. Honey Lemon Tea
This is my absolute go-to cure when I have a cold. The tea soothes your throat, keeps you hydrated, and cuts through your congestion. Also, the lemon gives your body vitamin C, which fights off colds and builds up your immune system.
2. Steam
Buy a humidifier to add moisture to your home. The added moisture will help loosen your congestion. Alternatively, you can simply boil water on the stove, then hold your head over the pot and breathe the steam in. You’ll clear out that congestion in no time!
3. Sleep
This may sound pretty obvious, but, most people push through their normal daily activities when they have a cold. Please remember, though; you’re sick and you need extra rest. When you’re sleeping, your body uses less energy, so it can work harder to cure you!
4. Oregano oil
To help combat your cough, put two drops of oregano oil on your tongue, and let them trickle down your throat. Oregano alerts your immune system to affected areas, which kills your germs. If you take the herb on a regular basis, you can actually prevent catching colds!
5. Magic gargle
Mix a half teaspoon of salt in eight ounces of water, then gargle four times per day. This simple salt water gargle will help cure your scratchy, sore throat. For coughs, try a green tea gargle. Just make the tea as normal, then gargle.
6. Hot Packs
Buy reusable hot packs at a drugstore, or make one. If you want to DIY, all you have to do is take a damp cloth and put it in the microwave for 30 seconds. Hot packs help open your sinuses, so you can breathe clearly again!
No matter how cautious you are, it is impossible to avoid all the germs during cold season. When illness strikes, though, just use these remedies to help ease your cough, soothe your throat, and loosen up your congestion. Make sure to continue utilize these tricks until your cold is completely gone. With these natural cures, you’ll be back on your feet in no time!
Kaitlin Livingston is an editor and writer who focuses on health, wellness, and lifestyle. Find more of her health and wellness content by on Unwritten.