First the bad news. There is no cure for a cold. Colds are caused by a great number of viruses and those viruses are always changing and mutating. Your immune system can adapt, and perhaps medicines can adapt, but the viruses will change and continue to infect people. There is good news, however. You can do a lot to feel better and speed your recovery.
Prevention
Remember that old saying, "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure." The best treatment for a cold is not getting one in the first place. Most colds are spread from coming in physical contact with sick people or surfaces they have handled. It is very important to wash your hands frequently, especially after being in public places, handling money, or being around someone who is sick. If possible keep a disinfectant cleanser handy to wipe down surfaces.
Boost Immunity
Your immune system is what determines how often you get sick and for how long, so keep it strong with regular exercise and good nutrition. Vitamins and minerals have a direct impact on how your immune system functions, so taking a good supplement can only help. There are also supplements you can take to charge up your immune system.
Astragalus: Astragalus is a herb long used in traditional Chinese medicine to boost the immune system. Studies have shown that Astragalus has antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and diuretic effects, all which can help relieve a cold. Astragalus has no major side effects, so it can be taken on a regular basis. You should still consult a physician if you are taking any other medications, to avoid any negative interactions.
Mushrooms: Besides fighting cancer and protecting the heart, the shiitake mushroom has been shown to have potent antiviral effects. It contains a substance called Lentinan that strengthens the immune system and helps overcome cold and flu viruses. Many types of mushrooms are nutrition powerhouses and should be eaten several times a week. They can be eaten in either fresh or dried form.
Garlic: Garlic is practically famous for its health benefits. Garlic has sulphur containing compounds that are antiviral, antibiotic, and anti-parasitic. It has been used for centuries to relieve sickness and disease. Eating a clove of chopped garlic everyday has numerous health benefits, including warding off colds and flu. For those worried about the garlic smell there are odorless capsules, though they are not considered as potent as fresh garlic.
I'm Sick. Now What?
Stay Fluid: One of the most important things to do when you have a cold is to stay hydrated. Drink a lot of water, juice, herbal tea, broth, etc. to get at least your recommended eight ounces at eight times a day. A little more than that could be helpful. Avoid alcohol and caffeine which can actually dehydrate you more.
Rest: Many people don't take the time to slow down and let their body recuperate when they are sick. For many it's hard to take the time off from work and other responsibilities when they feel under the weather. However, your immune system really kicks into high gear when you slow down on your physical and mental labors. Often you can knock out a cold just by getting extra sleep when you first feel symptoms. Another point to consider is that when your at home resting, your less likely to spread your illness to others.
Garlic Again: Just remember, fresh is considered more potent than capsules, and cooking can destroy some of the illness fighting compounds contained in the garlic. Up your dosage to three or four cloves a day while you feel sick. If you're really concerned about the odor, remember your supposed to be at home getting rest anyway.
Ginger: The Gingerol compounds in the spice Ginger are excellent for reducing inflammation, helping ease congested airways. It can also help expel nasty phlegm from lungs and sinuses to reduce coughing. It also has a warming effect that can help sweat out a cold and prevent chills.
Drink a little ginger tea during the day for some cold relief. Peel and chop a two inch piece of ginger and bring it to a boil in two cups of water. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 20 minutes. Strain and add honey and lemon juice to taste. The honey and lemon can also ease a sore throat.
Chicken Soup: The old standby recommended for ages.When you're not feeling well, a bowl of hot chicken soup just makes you feel better mentally. Yet there is some evidence that chicken soup helps you physically as well. Apparently it can slow down white blood cells that increase mucous in the lungs and nasal passages. It's also likely the steam can help clear your stuffy nose.
Humidity and Eucalyptus: During the colder months people tend to stay indoors more. Dry indoor air added to more people in close proximity for longer equals an environment where cold viruses thrive. Use a humidifier to keep moisture in the air, as well as helping breathing congestion. Just remember to clean it often, to prevent the spread of mold, mildew, and bacteria.
For an extra boost, try adding eucalyptus oil to your steam. Inhaling the oil is very effective against colds, flu, bronchitis, and congestion. It has such powerful anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties that it can destroy some airborne infections, keeping others from getting sick. Just remember, while breathing it is ok, never eat or drink eucalyptus or its oil. It can be toxic, especially to children.
By taking all of these tips you should be able to put together a good regimen to start feeling better quickly. Though there is no actual cure for the cold virus, you can do a lot to increase your resistance to getting the bug. If you do get one, these tips can often greatly reduce the duration and severity of your symptoms. Hopefully, you become one of those people who can say "I rarely get sick". Let me know of any other great remedies that you use stay well.
No comments:
Post a Comment