How to Treat Common Cold Symptoms Naturally?

Common cold is a viral illess, frequently faced by individuals all over the globe. Also known as the Upper Respiratory Infection, it is characterised by fever, runny nose, frequent sneezes, headache, etc. Generally, these symptoms last for a few days, but can be highly contagious if not managed properly.

This blog enlists some natural treatment options for common cold which are not only effective, but are also safe to implement. But, before that, it is crucial to learn the basics of common cold. Read below. 

About common cold

Common cold inflames the upper respiratory tract, with rhinoviruses being mainly responsible for it. This can happen at any time of the year, but the frequency is usually more during seasonal changes. As per the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), an adult contracts common cold about four times a year (on average). Cough droplets dispersing through air and contaminated surfaces are the major modes of viral transmission. Also, improper maintenance of hand hygiene can be a contributing factor. 

Top 9 natural ways to treat common cold

Take enough rest

Similar to other infections, common cold also incurs immunological stress to the body. When the body combats against common cold virus, most of the energy is used up in the process, making you weak from within. Thus, it is recommended not to engage in strenuous activities during the period of illness. Instead, take plenty of rest – this will help the body to focus on eliminating the infection and reenergise itself. However, you can do light exercises for they help in better blood circulation.

Drink lots of fluids (preferably warm)

Water constitutes around 70% of our body weight, carrying out vital physiological and metabolic functions, including fighting infections. You must also know in this context that a lot of water is lost when you experience fever and produce respiratory phlegm. Thus, when you have common cold, ensure to rehydrate the body more often. For better results, take warm vegetable soups, herbal teas or concoctions. 

Include vitamin C

Vitamin C is a popular micronutrient, known for its antioxidant and immune-boosting properties. It is present in seasonal fruits and vegetables, especially the citrus ones, such as, apples, oranges, gooseberries, etc. Other fruits include: kiwi, pineapple, papaya, mango and guava. So, when you catch common cold, serve more of these foods to yourself – they can help alleviate your symptoms in a better and more efficient manner.   

Use saline nasal spray

Common cold often irritates the nasal passages and blocks them. However, a good way to relieve this symptom is by using a saline nasal spray. It helps thin coagulated mucus while keeping the respiratory pathway moist. You can easily prepare it in your home. 

Mix equal parts of table salt and baking soda (half a teaspoon each) in a clean cup of distilled water. Stir the mixture constantly until the added components have dissolved uniformly. Once the solution is prepared, pour it into a clean spray or dropper bottle.

How to use: Tilt the head a bit forward, insert the nozzle tip into one of your nostrils and squeeze the liquid. Repeat the same process with the other nostril.    

Steam therapy

Steam therapy is one of the best homely remedies for managing symptoms of common cold. You can inhale steam or take a steamy bath – these measures help relieve nasal congestion, soothe the inflamed respiratory tract, thus making breathing easier. The warmth can infuse into your airways, aiding in quicker recovery from common cold.

Aromatherapy with essential oils

Essential oils can significantly promote your well-being while you have a common cold. For example, eucalyptus oil, tea tree oil, peppermint oil, lavender oil, to name a few. These have anti-inflammatory, antiviral and decongestant properties that help combat nose stuffiness, making breathing easier.

How to use: Take a clean cotton ball and add a few drops of your preferred essential oil, and inhale it.  You can also mix it in a carrier oil, such as, coconut or almond oil and massage the chest gently.      

Apart from the above ways of usage, you can also put essential oil in:

• A warm bath
• A diffuser
• A steamer

(Note: Perform a patch test before you apply an essential oil on the skin. This prevents unwanted allergic reactions.)

Have probiotics

Probiotics are live strains of beneficial bacteria and yeasts that act as an immune booster. They help regulate systemic inflammations, including common cold. Some popular examples of probiotics helping to reduce respiratory infections are lactobacillus, bifidobacterium, etc. These bacteria prepare your body for developing an active defensive mechanism against common cold-causing pathogens. You can add the following probiotics-rich foods into your regular diet: 

• Yoghurt
• Kefir
• Sauerkraut
• Kimchi
• Kombucha

Massage the sinuses

Gently massaging the areas around the nostrils, sides of the nose, forehead and temples can ease respiratory blockages and associated headaches. You may also incorporate an essential oil during the process for better results.

Eat a well-balanced diet

Have nutritious and light foods during your illness. This will nourish the body and provide energy to combat the cold symptoms. Ensure taking every type of food (in proper proportion) to get all the necessary macronutrients and micronutrients for optimal functioning of the immune system.   

Other essential tips for quick recovery from common cold

By following the above tips, you will surely recover from common cold. But, to hasten the recovery process, certain additional measures are also needed.  Some of them have been mentioned below.

• Blow your nose frequently
• Sleep by keeping the head in an elevated position
• Eat gullible and digestible foods
• Stay warm
• Avoid caffeine, smoking and alcohol consumption
• Wash the hands frequently with a medicated soap to prevent contamination
• Cut down on dairy-based products

Conclusion

Common cold is generally mild and treatable with natural remedies (as mentioned above), with symptoms subsiding within two to three days. But, if they persist for a week or more, and gradually worsen, you must seek medical help. If you suffer from high fever (above 38.9°C), sore throat, swollen tonsils, pain in the ears, do not sit back. Immediately contact your locally available private GP and obtain personalised guidance — or simply go to Private GPs London for expert care.