How to Fight Off a Cold Naturally

Getting a cold is one of the most irritating and frustrating things that can happen, yet it’s something that most of us experience at least once a year. When your nose is stuffy, your head is foggy, and your throat is scratchy, it can feel like you’re a lost cause. No amount of paracetamol, ibuprofen, and VapoRub seems to save you from the dreaded effects of the common virus.

You’re often laid in bed, trying to clear your nose, reminiscing about the days when you could breathe with ease. At this point, you’re desperate and ready to try any remedy at your disposal. Anyone in a nursing job, in Guernsey or otherwise, will tell you that colds are among the most common complaints that they receive. However, there is no immediate cure for the common virus. Despite this, the following natural remedies are thought to be extremely effective in fighting off a cold.

Garlic

Upon noticing your first sniffle, you should reach for the garlic as this particular plant assists you in the building of your immune system. Garlic is a natural antibiotic, meaning that it’s capable of inhibiting or killing harmful bacteria in your body. You can consume garlic in the form of a tablet or simply add it to your food. Ultimately, garlic will put your body in good stead to fight off any viruses.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a vital ascorbic acid that assists the healing of wounds, maintains healthy bones, cartilage, blood vessels, and skin, and protects your cells to keep them healthy. You can consume vitamin C in a variety of fruits and vegetables such as potatoes, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, blackcurrants, strawberries, peppers, and citrus fruits and juices. However, you can also buy vitamin C tablets and consume it in this way.

Grapefruit Seed Extract

Mixing around 10-20 drops of grapefruit seed extract in orange juice and quickly drinking this is another method of aiding a cold. This is due to the high levels of vitamin C in the grapefruit and orange juice alike. As previously mentioned, this keeps your cells healthy and protects them from potential threats.

Elderberry Juice

Elderberry juice or extract contains antioxidant flavonoids that shield your cell walls from foreign substances. As a result, it’s an effective defence against colds and fevers.

Apple Cider Vinegar

You’ve probably heard enough about the seemingly endless benefits of apple cider vinegar but, the truth is, it’s actually highly effective in fighting off colds. Not only does it soothe your sore throat, but it can play a huge role in the rebuilding of your immune system. This is due to various helpful proteins, enzymes, and friendly bacteria that are enhanced during the fermenting process.

Eucalyptus Oil

One of the most irritating symptoms of a cold is the constant congestion and this is where eucalyptus oil comes in. Placing eucalyptus oil in a humidifier is a great way of relieving your congestion as you try to sleep. However, this particular oil can affect blood sugar levels and shouldn’t be inhaled by people to who this could be detrimental.

Honey

Honey is good for colds due to its high level of antioxidants and its antifungal and antibacterial properties. As a result, sore throats and coughs are often soothed through honey consumption.

Ginger

Ginger contains gingerol, which has powerful medicinal properties to treat colds, coughs, sore throats, and even nausea. However, people with bleeding disorders, gallstones, and those taking blood-thinning medication should consult their doctor ahead of consuming ginger. Additionally, it should be avoided two weeks prior or subsequent to surgery.

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