5 natural remedies to soothe your cold
|Published
As the chilly winds of winter creep in, so too does the risk of catching a cold or flu. The first instinct for many is to rush to the pharmacy or schedule a doctor's appointment at the first sign of a scratchy throat or sniffles.
But before reaching for those over-the-counter medicines, consider the simple yet effective remedies that might already be in your home pantry.
Consider using natural remedies which contain ingredients like Echinacea and Elderberry, which are supposed to help support the immune system.
Chiquita Vosloo, a homeopathic advisor, recommends a holistic approach to well-being, which includes healthy eating, sleeping well and using natural remedies.
"Winter can be tough on everyone," said Vosloo. It's important to support your family's natural well-being with safe and effective ingredients.
Hydration: Honey and lemon tea
Encourage your family to drink plenty of fluids to help loosen phlegm and prevent dehydration. Warm water, herbal teas like chamomile or peppermint, and diluted fruit juices are great options.
One of the oldest and most soothing remedies for a sore throat is a warm cup of honey and lemon tea.
Honey has natural antimicrobial properties that can help fight off infections, while lemon provides a boost of vitamin C to support the immune system. Simply mix hot water with a spoonful of honey and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a comforting drink that can ease throat discomfort.
Garlic
Garlic isn't just for adding flavour to your favourite dishes; it's also a powerful natural remedy for fighting colds and flu.
Garlic contains compounds like allicin, which have antimicrobial properties that can help reduce the severity and duration of cold symptoms.
You can incorporate more garlic into your diet by adding it to soups, stir-fries, or even crushing a clove and mixing it with honey for a potent immune-boosting remedy.
Ginger
Known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties, ginger is another staple ingredient that can help alleviate symptoms of winter illnesses.
Whether grated into hot water for a soothing tea or added to meals for a flavourful kick, ginger can help reduce congestion, soothe a sore throat and ease nausea associated with colds and flu.
Steam inhalation
Steam inhalation is a simple yet effective way to relieve nasal congestion and ease breathing during a cold or flu.
Boil water in a pot, then remove it from the heat and lean over the pot with a towel draped over your head to trap the steam. Breathe deeply for a few minutes to help loosen mucus and clear congestion.
Salt-water gargle
A salt-water gargle is a time-tested remedy for soothing a sore throat and reducing inflammation. Mix a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water and gargle for about 30 seconds before spitting it out.
This can help kill bacteria in the throat and ease discomfort.
Rest
Perhaps the most important remedies for fighting off winter illnesses are often the simplest: staying hydrated and getting plenty of rest.
Drinking plenty of fluids like water, herbal teas, and broths can help keep your respiratory system hydrated and support immune function.
Additionally, getting adequate rest allows your body to focus its energy on fighting off infection, helping you recover more quickly.
Before reaching for over-the-counter medications, consider trying these natural remedies that you may already have at home.
Not only are they often more gentle on the body, but they can also be just as effective in alleviating symptoms and supporting your body's natural healing process during the winter months.
But it's important to remember, that respiratory illnesses can be serious, especially for young children. While these remedies can help, it's essential to seek medical advice if symptoms worsen or persist for more than a week.
Combine these natural approaches with cuddles and comfort to help your family feel better sooner.