We've all experienced how inconvenient it is to have a cold. The headaches, the stuffy noses, the never-ending sneezes. You're almost out of energy, and you can't even enjoy your food because it tastes like nothing.
After years of taking over-the-counter cold medicines, I know they don't help much. Now that I'm a mother, I'm even more cautious about administering medications to my children. The side effects can be extremely dangerous, and numerous studies have shown that they are completely ineffective.
So, what are you going to do? Here are my top 5 effective home remedies for colds and stuffy noses.
Get rid of the symptoms of a common cold naturally while also reducing the amount of time you are sick. Natural remedies are EXTREMELY POWERFUL!
1. Water with Salt
Gargling with salt water, as simple as it sounds, is a time-honored way to soothe a sore throat while also helping to clear mucus from the throat. To relieve a sore throat, dissolve a quarter teaspoon of salt in an eight-ounce glass of warm water and gargle at intervals throughout the day. Younger children will struggle with this, so avoid it unless they are at least 6 years old.
2. Pine Cones
Native Americans, it appears, used a natural syrup made from fresh pine buds to treat respiratory infections during the winter months. It relieves bronchial spasms and thins out any mucus on the chest. This is widely available in health stores and will be extremely beneficial to anyone suffering from a persistent cough (Children or adults with persistent coughs or breathing difficulties should see their GP first) Spruce buds also have strong antiseptic and antibacterial properties, which can aid in the expulsion of any gook that may be irritating the lungs. You can also get pine needle tea, which is especially relaxing at this time of year.
3. Thyme Ivy
It's a blend of Ivy and Thyme leaves that works by relaxing spasms in your respiratory tract. The ivy relaxes the bronchial tubes, which reduces the hacking. Thyme helps to loosen mucus. Put about 15 drops in a glass of water. There is a great syrup for children.
4. Echinacea
Stop colds before they start – This is a daisy-like herbaceous flowering plant that has been shown to work by improving the immune system to bugs, thereby avoiding more common infections or chest infections. Take it as drops every day in the run-up to the dreadful winter months, and you might avoid becoming a victim of some of the nasty germs floating around.
5. Ginger
This should be added to everything! It is well known in Chinese medicine as a warming blood tonic. Ginger stimulates circulation, which keeps everything moving. It is analgesic and anti-inflammatory, so it can help alleviate some of the discomfort caused by flu and colds. Put it in your water every day, or for the brave, chew a two-inch piece every day.
These remedies are mostly for adults, but because they are all natural, check with your health store about the dosage for children. I also have a good tip for small children who are congested.
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