How to Beat a Cold Naturally

Having a cold is probably one of the most uncomfortable things imaginable. They make it difficult to sleep, work and even eat. This is because our bodies are working hard to fight unwelcome visitors. While they can ease symptoms in the short-term, over-the-counter medications barely make a dent in the common cold. However, there are a few ways to fight the common cold without ever having to brave the drugstore.

Eat Your Garlic

Garlic has antibiotic properties and is a natural antihistamine, but to receive these benefits, garlic must be eaten raw. For those of us that cannot handle popping a few cloves of garlic in our mouth daily, raw garlic capsules are easy to find at most health food stores. They will help you stop sneezing and boost your immune system.

Discover Oil of Oregano

This essential oil has the power to fight bacterial, fungal, viral and parasitic infections. It is, however, very strong and should be used with caution as it can irritate the skin. The best way to ingest oil of oregano is by placing a few drops in a small glass of water. The water intake will help with dehydration and the oil with coat your throat to help with coughing.

Water, Water Everywhere

We all know we are supposed to drink water daily, but you should up your intake when you have a cold. It helps hydrate your cells so they can battle the toxins in your body and helps to loosen mucus. Being well hydrated means mucus should be thinner and easier to pass when you sneeze or cough.

Put Up the Do Not Disturb Sign

This one seems obvious, but it is perhaps the most important. The best way to help your body when you are ill is to remove yourself from your responsibilities. Put life on pause for at least a few hours, if not a few days. Your body is fighting a battle against outside intruders and it needs all the help it can get. Plus, it is so important to not spread your cold to other people.

Avoiding stress is also vital to recover from sickness quickly. If you continue to put your body through taxing activities at work or school, it may take weeks to recover instead of days.

Get Steamy

Do you remember being sick as a child and your mother giving you chicken soup? She was on to something! Hot liquids relieve nasal congestion and help keep you hydrated. If you are having a hard time drinking enough water while you are ill, soup is a great option. It allows you to drink part of your meals so you’ll get vital nutrients and calories while staying hydrated.

Steam also helps soothe the inflamed membranes in your throat and nose. If you can’t stand the idea of eating, taking a hot shower or setting up a humidifier near your bed are both great alternatives.

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