Colds and flu are some of the most common affections that people are suffering from at a certain point in their life. Even though colds are not that serious compared to other affections, it is still important to treat them quickly and efficiently. According to studies, the average adult tends to be sick with a cold at least a few times each year. Furthermore, around 16% to 20% of the population gets sick with flu. Considering the fact that these illnesses are caused by a virus, it is virtually impossible to stop their reappearance completely. However, there are effective home remedies that one can use in order to relieve symptoms.
It is a well-known fact that having an amazing immune system allows the human body to fight against all kinds of illnesses. Luckily, there are effective home remedies that one can use in order to make sure that they are healthy all year round. Even though herbal and natural remedies might not be the most suitable options in all cases, they can still help shorten the duration of colds and flu. Last but not least, it is important to remember that these natural remedies might not work for everyone. Therefore, it might be a good idea to book a doctor’s appointment for a more precise medication.
Stay Hydrated
A good way of eliminating colds and flu is by staying hydrated. People who are sick with cold tend to prefer drinking warm fluids. Water, juice or warm lemon water are all amazing ways of preventing dehydration and loosening congestion. For many, chicken soup is the most common and comforting way of eliminating the symptoms of an illness. As already mentioned before, hot and steamy liquids are an efficient way of opening up the nasal passages and easing congestion. Besides that, according to lab research, chicken soup is a natural way of easing inflammation. However, its anti-inflammatory properties haven’t been useful in many human subjects. On the other hand, most people know that the benefits of tea are quite similar to those of chicken soup. Swallowing the hot fluid keeps people hydrated, soothes a sore throat and relieves a cough. Furthermore, the antioxidants in black teas might assist the body in fighting diseases.
Last but not least, it is important to avoid alcohol or coffee at all costs. They can only make the human body more dehydrated and can prolong the recovery phase.
Get Enough Rest
Often people hear that getting enough bed rest is the most efficient and practical way of eliminating a cold. The human body needs to heal, especially when it’s suffering from such an illness. There’s nothing worse than feeling sick and not being able to sleep. People who are sick with flu might find it hard to concentrate and be productive at work. For that reason, and out of respect for the other colleagues, it might be a good idea to get a few days off and rest up.
Rest plays a vital role when speaking about efficient ways of helping the body to recover from a certain illness. Therefore, people should make a priority of getting a good night’s rest. Those who are struggling to fall asleep when fighting a cold need to create a relaxing asthenosphere for sleep. Letting in fresh air is an important part of the process. Besides that, one has to know how to treat a fever, prevent the cold by taking a spoonful of honey and putting a hot water bottle on achy areas.
Optimize Vitamin D Levels
According to relevant studies, the optimization of vitamin D levels is an effective way of shortening the duration of an illness. People need to understand the importance of vitamin D for the human body. Even though getting enough sleep and rest when fighting off the symptoms of a cold are important factors, in this case, going for a stroll in the sun for even a few minutes can work wonders. A decent level of vitamin D in the body is an effective way of boosting the immune system. Therefore, people who are constantly spending time outdoors can enjoy the benefits of vitamin D for their health.
On the other hand, when dealing with cold and flu, it can be a good time to learn some new tips related to health and not only. Healthy Focus provides lots of interesting articles related to health, beauty, nutrition or wellness. One can find a lot of interesting and useful information by doing research online.
Use a Humidifier
A humidifier is a useful device that might decrease cold symptoms and prevent the development of colds. In order to make it effective, people can place humidifiers in the own bedrooms. However, it is important to remember to change the water each day. At the same time, cleaning the device thoroughly prevents the buildup or mildew or other unwanted bacteria. Moreover, in order to prevent mineral deposits from forming in the device, it might be good to use distilled water instead of tap water. In households where there are small children, it might be good to opt for cold mist humidifiers as hot ones might cause burns.
Gargle
Even though a lot of people might not be aware of this fact, gargling is an old-school remedy that helps prevent a sore throat and essentially a cold from progressing. Everyone knows from experience that a sore throat is actually one of the first symptoms of a cold. When it comes to gargling, one can choose from a variety of recipes that include directions for mixing gargling salt water. However, the most common one is adding a teaspoon of salt to a glass of warm water. Regardless of the recipe that one opts for, it is important to make sure that the water is not too hot. Otherwise, it can lead to burns.
When it comes to the act of gargling, the most effective way of doing so is by looking up the ceiling and even tapping the throat in order to make the warm salt water get into all areas of the throat. The whole process needs to be repeated a few times a day.
Natural home remedies can be a good alternative for traditional medicine when speaking of colds and flu. However, most of the time it is important to speak to your doctor before you proceed following unusual remedies.
