Съдържание
A holistic approach to treating the common cold can significantly speed up the recovery process after illness. The common cold is a common illness, especially during the fall-winter season. This condition represents a kind of signal for the body to slow down, take a well-deserved rest and relax. Although this ailment often goes away on its own, there are numerous completely natural methods that can relieve symptoms and improve the general condition. Holistic therapeutic approaches for the common cold often feature more affordable prices compared to traditional over-the-counter medications.
Tips for relieving cold symptoms
Get plenty of rest
Rest is undoubtedly one of the effective remedies for the common cold. It is an ideal occasion to indulge in a well-deserved vacation without feeling guilty. Rest supports the immune system as it directs the body’s energy towards self-healing and strengthening processes. It is important to note that those who rest more when they have a cold recover faster. So, in this case, rest is not only pleasant and relaxing, but has a beneficial effect on the recovery process.
Include apple cider vinegar in your regime
Incorporating apple cider vinegar into your daily regimen can be an effective way to recover quickly from a cold. Gargling with apple cider vinegar three or four times a day can help speed up the recovery process. Preparing a drink with apple cider vinegar is easy and requires only a few ingredients:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
- 1-2 tablespoons of honey
- 2 tablespoons of apple cider 2 tablespoons of lemon juice according to preference
- Appropriate amount of warm water
Directions:
- Mix the apple cider vinegar, honey and lemon juice in a glass.
- Add desired amount of warm water to the mixture.
- Stir well until all ingredients are dissolved.
- The drink can be sipped gradually or can be used for gargling.
Not only does this drink offer support for the immune system, it can also help relieve cold symptoms such as sore throat and difficulty breathing. The amount of water can be adjusted depending on preference and needs.
Make your own ginger tea
A simple way to support your body during a cold is by making ginger tea. Drinking 2 or 3 cups a day can improve your immune system, relieve a runny nose, soothe a sore throat and reduce inflammation. You can easily prepare ginger tea, which is healthy and very pleasant to taste.
Here’s what you need:
- 2 tablespoons grated ginger (or organic ginger concentrate)
- 1 cup hot water
- Honey (optional)
Directions:
- Place the grated ginger in a glass.
- Pour the hot water over the ginger.
- Add honey if you wish to sweeten the tea.
- Stir well.
- Let the tea brew for a few minutes.
- Strain if necessary.
- Enjoy your hot and soothing drink.
This tea can be drunk any time of the day when you want to relax and take care of your health.
Eat healthy
To improve the symptoms of the common cold, it is important to eat healthy. Light food rich in beneficial substances can help strengthen the immune system and speed up the recovery process. Avoiding certain foods containing gluten, sugar, and dairy products can help ease inflammatory processes in the body and give the immune system extra energy to fight infection.
The best foods during a cold are fresh fruits and vegetables, which are rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, juices without added sugar and chicken soup, which is rich in nutrients and easy to digest. These foods help to provide enough hydration and nourish the body while helping to relieve cold symptoms.
Natural remedies for colds
Eucalyptus oil
Eucalyptus oil is known for its ability to clear a stuffy nose and make breathing easier for the common cold. To use it effectively, a few drops of eucalyptus oil can be added to a bath of warm water before bathing. Alternatively, four to five drops of eucalyptus oil can be dissolved in a large bowl of boiling water. The bowl is placed on a hard and flat surface, then you should bend over it, covering your head with a towel, for a period of 5 to 10 minutes. These procedures can be repeated twice a day.
It is important to note that people with liver diseases should avoid the use of eucalyptus oil, as it can have adverse effects on their health.
Honey
Honey is valuable for health as it boosts the immune system, relieves coughs and soothes sore throats with its antioxidant, antibacterial and antiviral properties. The recommended dose is 1 to 2 tablespoons, which you can add to a glass of warm water, tea or water with lemon to experience the benefits of honey. It is important to note that infants under 1 year should not consume honey.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is considered helpful in the treatment of colds. If you choose to take it as a supplement, the recommended daily dose is between 500 and 1,000 milligrams for children and between 2 and 4 grams for adults. These amounts should be divided into several intakes throughout the day to achieve better absorption and effectiveness.
In addition to supplementation, vitamin C can also be taken through food. Sources of vitamin C are citrus fruits, and some additional sources are elderberry syrup and acerola. These supplements high in vitamin C may be useful for helping the immune system and fighting infections.
Herbal liquid extracts
Herbal liquid extracts are an effective alternative in dealing with a cold when used properly. Specific choice of extracts can have a great impact in relieving symptoms.
Among the recommended extracts for colds are:
- Echinacea extract: Echinacea is known for its immunomodulatory properties. Taking this extract can support the immune system and speed up the recovery process.
- Rhodiola extract: Rhodiola has also been used traditionally to improve immunity. This extract can help fight infections and slow the progression of a cold.
- Cayenne Extract: Cayenne hot peppers contain capsaicin, which is known for its antibacterial and antiviral properties. Application is a few drops of this extract under the tongue 2-3 times a day.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D has been scientifically proven to be extremely effective in reducing the symptoms of the common cold. Natural vitamin D can be synthesized through sun exposure. Taking vitamin D3 supplements prevents contracting viral diseases such as influenza or significantly reduces their symptoms. There are even vegan versions of vitamin D supplements available on the market. These supplements are an effective way to supply the body with this important vitamin and are recommended as part of health care, especially during cold and flu periods.
Lemon oil
Lemon essential oil is known for its antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties that can help fight the common cold. This oil is extracted from the rind of the lemon fruit. Adding one drop of the oil to 2 liters of water and drinking it throughout the day not only improves the taste of the water, but also assists in fighting colds. Additionally, drops of the oil can be added to a diffuser to make breathing easier and create a more pleasant atmosphere in the room.
Peppermint oil
It seems that no list of holistic cold remedies would be complete without mentioning peppermint oil. A drop can be added to a little coconut or almond oil. The resulting aromatic oil can be used to massage the chest and soles of the feet in the morning before getting dressed or before going to sleep at night. What is the effect? You will enjoy easy breathing at night and a burst of energy during the day.
Why choose the holistic approach to cold treatment?
The holistic approach to treating a cold is a holistic and natural method of promoting rapid recovery of the body. The use of herbal liquid extracts, vitamins, essential oils and other natural remedies such as honey and cayenne pepper can support the immune system and relieve cold symptoms. It is important to note that a healthy diet, optimal hydration and proper rest also play a key role in the recovery process. Combining these holistic methods can offer an integrated and effective way to fight a cold while maintaining the body’s overall health and well-being.
