Suffering from a stuffy nose? The common cold can be a nuisance. Not only does it cause discomfort, it can also keep you from doing your tasks effectively. Let’s look into its causes and what easy home treatments are available for you.
Causes
Stanford Children’s Health says over 200 viruses can cause the common cold. Rhinoviruses are the most common of these.
When the cold virus enters the body, the immune system is triggered to defend the body from the foreign substance. This results to:
- Increased mucus production
- Inflammation of the nose lining
- Sneezing
- Coughing
Cold viruses can be spread either through the air or by direct contact with an infected person or contaminated object.
Home Remedies You Can Try
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar contains probiotics that help decrease the duration of a cold. It also has natural acids that help expel mucus from the throat.
Simply mix a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar in warm water and drink a glass of this mixture two to three times a day.
Epsom Salt
Epsom salt boosts your immune system with an alkalizing effect. Epsom salt also leads to vasodilation, which is the widening of the blood vessels. This is important in improving blood flow. The better blood flow you have, the more effective your body is ridding itself of toxins, which can ultimately help in managing the common cold and its symptoms.
In a bathtub, combine a cup of Epsom salt with warm water, and soak yourself in the solution for at least twenty minutes.
Peppermint Or Eucalyptus Oil
Peppermint and eucalyptus oils contain menthol, which helps clear nasal congestion.
There are many ways to use these essential oils. You can directly apply these oils on your chest, neck, and forehead. You can also mix these in a tubful of warm water and bathe in it. Lastly, you can use them for aromatherapy. Put the oil in a diffuser, which spreads their scent all over your room.
Garlic And Honey
Garlic contains a compound called allicin, which is responsible for its taste, scent, and immune-system-boosting properties. Honey relieves sore throat, which is a usual symptom of the common cold.
Crush one or two cloves of garlic, mix it with honey, and take it orally.
Ginger And Honey
For centuries, ginger has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to cure colds. It relieves sore throat, thins out mucus, and produces a calming effect.
If you don’t have ginger tea in stock, you can make your own. Crush a piece of ginger, and let it soak in warm water for a few minutes. Remove the ginger and mix a teaspoon of honey in the infused water. Drink as a hot tea.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C decreases the severity and duration of colds. It is important in the proper function of cells in the immune system.
You can get Vitamin C naturally from foods like citrus fruits, berries, and tomatoes. You can also take a Vitamin C supplement like Purisure Vitamin C Powder. It’s a water soluble essential vitamin that is known for its antioxidant properties and ability to repair damaged tissue and fight cold symptoms.
References:
https://www.stylecraze.com/articles/effective-home-remedies-for-common-cold/
https://www.healthline.com/health/apple-cider-vinegar-for-colds#acvbenefits-for-colds
https://www.epsomsaltcouncil.org/expert-advice/treat-cold-flu-with-epsom-salt/
https://mightynest.com/articles/the-essential-6-uses-for-peppermint-essential-oil
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/garlic-fights-colds-and-flu#section1
http://www.gingerlove.be/ginger-is-good-for/cold/
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/does-vitamin-c-help-with-colds#section1