We are in the middle of a harsh winter and among all the everyday things we have to take care of, we also have to deal with the common cold or the seasonal flu. Well, I know I felt especially uncomfortable yesterday morning, when I woke up feeling a bit sick. I really hate it when I get sick, especially when I have so many things to do. So, here are some tips that can help us get better the soonest possible:
Rest: Yes, I know, you are not the type to just stay in bed until you get better (I know I am not). But if you want to get better the soonest possible, you have to help your body fight in the most effective way. So, staying home for a couple of days is essential. Try to keep the temperature in your house between 23o-25o C and avoid physical activity. Also, you should refresh the air in your house at least once a day.
Drink more fluids: It is essential to keep your body hydrated. The more water you drink, the more you help your body detox and fight harder. Also, liquids contribute to fastest elimination of secretions from the throat and nose. Apart from water, you can also drink fresh juices or herbal tea.
Vitamins: Vitamin C is the number one vitamin for helping your body fight. You can take a supplement with Vitamin C or multivitamins, but the natural sources are always the best choice. Fruits and vegetables such as orange, grapefruit, broccoli, are a very good source of vitamin C.
Soups with protein: Yes, your mother was right again! A warm chicken soup will help you get better. Any kind of soup with meat is a good way to fuel your body with proteins and extra fluids. So, now it’s the time for that “magic” soup recipe.
Steam inhalation: You can fill a bowl with hot water, then, maintaining a distance of 30cms from the bowl, cover your head with a towel such that it forms a tent around the bowl and your head. Breathe through your nose for a minute or two. You can add a few drops of eucalyptus oil in the hot water. This will ease your breathing, especially before you go to bed at night.
Echinacea: I really swear by it! Echinacea is an herb used by Native Americans for hundreds of years. It encourages the immune system and reduces many of the symptoms. It really helps you get better sooner. You can find many supplement and I find those that also contain zinc to be very effective. You can also take an Echinacea supplement for prevention purposes, so that you don’t get down with a cold or flu easily in wintertime.
No smoking: If you are a smoker, you should try to avoid smoking. It will make your respiratory system suffer more and you will delay your treatment. And this is the good scenario! Smoking can transform a simple cold to a serious medical condition.
No antibiotics: Antibiotics do not fight infections caused by viruses. So, you may do more harm than good. Antibiotics also can have serious side-effects. You should never take any kind of antibiotics, unless a doctor has advised you to do so.
No nasal corticosteroid spray: Unless you see a doctor, don’t use a nasal corticosteroid spray.
Those are the essential natural treatment tips that will help you get better soon. Of course, if the symptoms don’t seem to go away in a few days but your condition worsens, it is always wise to see a doctor. Unfortunately, sometimes a common cold is not so common.