Gargle, rest, drink warm liquids, repeat…
I’ve written articles about how to cope with the common cold. I’ve also written articles about the common stomach virus, also referred to as the "stomach flu," but nothing compared to the article I recently read on some home remedies that should help combat the ugly symptoms of both the cold and the flu.
Like I always say, nutrition is first and foremost. If you aren’t eating right, then you’re body is up for grabs for all those pesky germs. If you’re not eating right and you do get sick, you’re in for a long haul to recovery. Nutrition keeps us healthy, but it also gets us prepared for when we do get sick. Eating all-natural, fresh veggies and fruit, as well as the other main food groups will keep you going strong through the cold, virus and flu season. I also like to eat organic foods, as they’re generally toxin-free.
Another way to stay healthy, and I’ve said this as well, wash your hands! You have to keep your hands clean. Also, do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth. Make it a habit to not touch your face with your hands. Use the sleeve of your shirt or tissue. Break the habit.
But even though we take all the precautions, we sometimes get sick. And with no known cure for the cold or flu, we have to find something to make us feel better. If you’re like me the more natural the better. There are some natural home remedies that you can try to combat the symptoms.
Nine natural home remedies
- Place a cold or hot pack on your face around your sinuses when congested - a bag of frozen peas work great, as does a wet wash cloth in a microwave (check its temperature before applying it to your face)
- Hot shower - the steamier the better - if you are weak and dizzy, leave the shower running, but take a sponge bath sitting in a chair at the sink
- Mentholated salve - sometimes applying salve under your nose will help with the congestion, as well as with the soreness
- Gargling - four times a day try gargling one teaspoon of salt in warm water. Gargling tea with tannin can help with a tickle. One teaspoon of honey mixed with one teaspoon of lemon juice or raspberry leaves steeped in 2 cups of hot water can also do the trick - however, make sure it’s room temperature before gargling and do not give honey to a child less than 1 year old.
- Don’t sniff your nose - you should blow your nose frequently, the correct way by closing one nostril with your finger and blow your nose gently. Blowing your nose the wrong way can cause an earache. Make sure you wash your hands afterwards.
- Rest, rest, rest - rest is so important for the healing and recovery process so your body can assert energy to fight the virus.
If you do get sick, just make sure you are taking precautions to not get others sick. Spreading the germ virus is something you can prevent. If possible, stay home from work. You don’t need others to get sick.
Source:
webmd.com, Cold and Flu Center, 9 Tips to Treat Colds and Flu the ‘Natural’ Way, retrieved November 16, 2008 from http://www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/9-tips-to-treat-colds-and-flu-the-natural-way
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