My Top 7 Cold Remedies
Colds, huh? They're like uninvited guests that just won't leave. Feeling down with a cold is basically a rite of passage, but fear not! There are some remedies that might just save the day. Some of these old tricks have been passed down for generations. So, to all you sniffly folks out there, here's to a speedy recovery!
1. My Favorite Immunity Tea Recipe
My loved ones and friends know that when they need an immune boost, I make a tea concoction that I have found to reduce cold symptoms, and shorten the common cold. Just remember, this is supposed to be strong so that it kicks the cold's butt!
What’s in it:
1 mug of hot water
fresh squeezed juice from a lemon
1 sprig thyme
pinch of ground turmeric or freshly grated turmeric (1/4”)
pinch of ground black pepper
pinch of ground cinnamon
pinch of ground cayenne pepper
pinch of ground ginger or fresh grated ginger (1/4”)
2 tsp elderberry syrup
2 tsp manuka honey or high quality honey
optional: echinacea tea bag
optional: 1 clove of minced garlic (will keep vampires away)
2. Vitamin C
This might seem like an obvious one, but vitamin C really is great for cold prevention and treatment. The best type of vitamin C you can get is from real foods.
Food sources of vitamin C in include:
-Oranges
-Grapefruit
-Strawberries
-Broccoli
-Cauliflower
-Pineapple
-Sweet Potato
-Apples
-Kale
If you are looking for a vitamin C supplement, choose one that is derived from real fruits and vegetables. Many supplements use lab-created nutrients, which can be less effective. A common lab-created vitamin C supplement is called ascorbic acid.
3. Fire Cider
Apple cider vinegar is known for its antibacterial properties that may boost the immune system and metabolism. In the fire cider recipe, apple cider vinegar serves as the base due to these beneficial qualities. Having fire cider readily available can be helpful during times of feeling rundown. This concoction contains immune-boosting ingredients such as garlic, onion, lemon, ginger, honey, and more. A shot of Fire Cider at the onset of a cold can be beneficial. You can find many recipes online for fire cider including on Mountain Rose Herbs.
4. Zinc & Echinacea
Zinc, when taken consistently at the onset of a cold, can help reduce the severity and duration of the common cold caused by the rhinovirus. While zinc may not necessarily prevent a cold, it has been shown to inhibit the multiplication of the rhinovirus, thus leading to a shorter duration of the cold. Another herb, Echinacea, has also been proven to lessen the severity and duration of colds by boosting the production of white blood cells in the body. Drinking Echinacea tea during a cold can be a beneficial form of treatment.
5. Elderberry & Honey
My pantry always includes elderberry syrup, a versatile and effective remedy for the common cold. Elderberry is rich in flavonoids, serving as a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent that supports overall health. Research indicates that consuming elderberry at the onset and during a cold can provide various benefits and alleviate symptoms. In addition to elderberry, honey, particularly high-quality raw or manuka honey, is renowned for its antibacterial properties, immune-boosting effects, and soothing qualities for the throat and stomach. When choosing honey, opt for reputable or local brands offering only raw honey to ensure authenticity. Be cautious with manuka honey purchases, as some products may be misrepresented. Honey can be consumed alone or added to tea as a natural remedy for cold symptoms.
6. Steam or Diffuser
Using a diffuser during nighttime can help ward off the common cold and alleviate symptoms like sore throats or nasal congestion. Add a few drops of eucalyptus, frankincense, oregano, tea tree, lemongrass, clove, cinnamon leaf, or rosemary essential oils for best results.
To inhale essential oils more directly and clear nasal passageways, ears, and soothe the throat, create a "steam tent." Fill a large bowl with boiling water, add a few drops of essential oil, and cover your head with a towel to trap the steam while leaning over the bowl. This enables deep inhalation of the steam for direct benefits.
7. Turmeric
Turmeric, an herb with numerous health benefits, is highly recommended for daily consumption to prevent diseases, cancer, and illnesses. It is particularly beneficial for boosting immunity. Remember that turmeric is absorbed more effectively when accompanied by black pepper. When seeking a turmeric supplement, ensure that black pepper is listed among the ingredients.
Golden milk is a blend of herbs comprising turmeric, honey, black pepper, cinnamon, and milk of choice. Known for its potential health benefits, it is touted as an effective remedy against colds, flu, and various health issues. Ready-to-use blends are available in stores, or you can choose to craft your own concoction at home.
