The common cold is a viral infection of the nose and upper respiratory tract. Even though it’s usually harmless, it can cause discomfort in the form of a runny nose, sore throat, fever and body aches.
Most people recover fully from the common cold after a few days. But taking natural remedies can help reduce the duration and severity of the viral infection.
Here are five safe, natural remedies for the common cold:
1. Elderberry
Elderberries are the fruits of the elderberry shrub. They’re rich in antioxidants known as anthocyanins. Thanks to these antioxidants, as well as the fruits’ natural antiviral properties, elderberries can help treat colds, the flu, hay fever and sinus infections.
If taken every two to four hours at the onset of cold symptoms, elderberry can shorten the duration of a cold by one to four days.
Elderberry can also reduce swelling and pain because of its anti-inflammatory properties.
There are several elderberry supplement options and preparations on the market, such as capsules, teas, juices and syrups.
2. Ginger
Ginger is a leafy plant whose roots or rhizomes are used as a spice or healing aid. Depending on the variety, the inside of the root may be yellow, red or white. Ginger is known for its pungent odor and mildly spicy flavor.
In addition to its ability to add flavor to food, ginger also has antiviral properties that assist the body in healing. It’s also safe for pregnant or nursing women, unlike conventional medicines. Additionally, ginger can relieve sore throat, headaches and fever.
Ginger is available fresh, dried and powdered. Fresh ginger slices can be steeped to make a soothing cup of tea, while powdered ginger can be stirred into honey for relieving cough and sore throat.
3. Slippery elm
Slippery elm is a tree native to the central and eastern United States. The tree is known for its slimy inner bark, which Native Americans used to treat fever and sore throat.
Mixing slippery elm bark with water creates a sticky substance called mucilage, which coats and soothes a sore throat. Slippery elm is also great for coughs and symptoms caused by other respiratory conditions, such as asthma and bronchitis. (Related: Investigating the efficacy of honey for treating bronchial asthma.)
4. Marshmallow root
Marshmallow root comes from the marshmallow plant, a flowering plant native to Europe and certain parts of Asia and Africa. In folk medicine, marshmallow root is used to relieve coughs and sore throat. The root’s soothing effects come from the mucilage that is produced when the root is combined with water.
5. Peppermint
Peppermint is a natural decongestant and fever reducer because of a compound called menthol. Menthol gives peppermint its characteristic minty flavor and odor. To relieve congestion, sip peppermint tea. You can also add a few drops of peppermint essential oil to a diffuser. Run the diffuser and inhale slowly through your nose.
Herb-infused honey for the common cold
Try this herb-infused honey to quickly relieve symptoms of the common cold.
Ingredients:
- Fresh or dried herbs
- Raw honey
- Filtered water
Directions:
- Fill a glass jar with fresh or dried herbs.
- Pour simmering water over the herbs. Secure the lid and steep until the water cools. Strain.
- Heat the tea over low heat until warm.
- Remove from heat and add 2 cups of raw honey for every one cup of tea. Stir to combine.
- Pour into a sterile jar and store in the refrigerator.
Notes:
- If treating a sore throat, add 2 tablespoons of ginger and 1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the mixture.
- If boosting immunity, add 1/2 tablespoon each of garlic, cinnamon and echinacea to the mixture.
- If promoting relaxation, use 2 tablespoons each of chamomile, lemon balm and lavender to make the tea.
- Children under the age of one shouldn’t be fed raw honey.
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