* Easy ways to shorten or relieve a cold
* Natural and drug-free hacks to feeling better quickly
* Tried-and-true methods to get you back on your feet without side effects
Nothing slows you down more than the common cold. Trying to get through the day or sleep through the night with a hacking cough, stuffed up nose and sinus headache can be a challenge. Feel something coming on? Here are 9 easy hacks to fight the common cold. Or at least a little respite until it passes.
1. Eucalyptus Oil
For a stuffed up nose or chest congestion, nothing feels better than the powerful, clearing scent of eucalyptus oil. Vaporize it through an oil diffuser, or add a few drops to a hot bath for instant, soothing relief.
2. Netti Pot
If OTC cold meds aren’t cutting it, add a netti pot to your arsenal of remedies. Designed to irrigate saline solution to rinse the nasal passages, it can offer easier breathing and is great for allergy suffers, too.
3. Vitamin C Supplements
Vitamin C is a key ingredient for boosting the immune system, and hoards of Airborne Vitamin Supplement users swear by it to shorten the duration of their colds.
4. Raw Honey
Unfiltered honey is packed with antimicrobials, antioxidants and antibacterial properties, and its use has been reported to shorten colds. Use it in tea or mixed with lemon, ginger and hot water. On top of that, a teaspoon will help coat and soothe a painful sore throat.
Related Stories
5. Salt Water Gargle
Speaking of sore throats, combining salt and warm water for a pain-relieving gargle is a classic remedy that works by creating a hostile environment for bacteria. Rule of thumb: Dissolve about 1/2 teaspoon of salt for every 8 ounces of water.
6. Tea
Well, not just any tea. A good herbal infusion like Hey Girl’s immune system booster will help support your body’s cold-fighting abilities, while a hot beverage can help clear up congestion and keep you hydrated.
7. Sleep
A common cold needs to run its course, so sometimes it’s just about giving time time. Getting extra rest is also a key factor in letting your body repair itself, so clock in as much shut eye as possible with the help of a sinus pillow that can be heated or frozen to alleviate swelling and congestion.
8. Elderberry Syrup
Black elderberries have been recognized for centuries for their immune-supportive properties, and Gaia’s highly concentrated syrup lets you get max intake with just a minimal spoonful. This formula also includes natural Vitamin C for even more immune-boosting power.
9. Chicken Soup
Colds are often appetite-zapping affairs, but keeping hydrated and nourished are vital to surviving sickness. So prep a steaming hot bowl of chicken soup – not only will you fortify your body with much needed nutrition, but ingesting a hot liquid has been known to open up airways for easier breathing.
[caption id="attachment_67391" align="aligncenter" width="593"]
Image Courtesy of Amazon[/caption]Best Cold Medicines and Treatments
If you buy something because we told you about it, we may receive compensation from retail partners.