10 Natural Cold Remedies to Try This Winter

Ah, yes, the dreaded common cold. While not as severe as the flu, coming down with a cold can make basic day-to-day activities more challenging. The sneezing, stuffy nose, and sore throat are never fun to deal with.

10 Diseases and 10 Remedies of Cold Weather

We can get rid of the diseases that often occur in the cold season, provided we try these remedies.

Digestive Defects and Constipation

Patients with digestive defects are prone to increased constipation due to cold. They should drink plenty of water in cold. Staying hydrated can significantly improve their digestive health.

Headache

A complaint of headache in winter can be relieved by rubbing nutmeg in milk and applying it on the forehead. This remedy can provide quick relief for those suffering from headaches.

Lips Cracking

Lips often crack in winter. Applying Kokum oil will give relief. This natural treatment is effective in keeping the lips moisturized and preventing cracks that can occur due to the dry, cold weather.

Torn Wives

Applying onion paste will give relief when the wives get torn. This remedy can be very soothing for skin irritation and can help keep the area protected and comfortable.

Mucus in the Chest

Mucus often accumulates in the chest in winter. Consuming figs will release mucus and provide relief in cough. Figs are a natural expectorant and can help alleviate this condition.

Digestion

Eat cumin powder after meals to digest better. Substances like cumin can aid in digestion and help with the discomfort of indigestion that can occur with the cold weather.

Fever Due to Cold

Eating half a teaspoon of caraway powder three times a day can cure fever caused by cold. Caraway has natural antipyretic properties and can help reduce fever.

Winter Cough and Cold

Drinking mint leaves tea mixed with sugar or salt is beneficial in cough, fever, and cold in winter. The cooling properties of the mint can help soothe the throat and reduce inflammation.

Phlegm and Asthma

Consuming a decoction made of Ajwain (carom seeds), small pepper, and poppy seeds can provide quick relief when there is an accumulation of phlegm and increasing asthma. This remedy can help clear the chest and alleviate breathing difficulties.

Joint Pain

Applying oil on the leaves of Dhatura and heating it before tying it on the painful place can give relief from joint pain in the cold season. The warmth can help with circulation and provide temporary relief from pain.

Body Pain

Cooking 3-4 cloves of garlic in mustard oil in winter and massaging it when it cools down can provide relief in body pain. Garlic is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce pain and discomfort.

6 Natural Cold Remedies to Consider

While these traditional remedies can help, here are some modern and scientifically-backed natural cold remedies to consider for the winter season.

1. Practice Prevention

The best way to manage a cold is to avoid getting sick in the first place. Some practical steps include:

- Protect your immune system by staying healthy. Exercise regularly and eat healthy foods, especially dark green leafy vegetables, to boost your immunity.

- Take care of your mental health. Chronic stress can weaken your immune system and make you more susceptible to illness.

- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water to avoid picking up and spreading cold viruses. Hand hygiene is crucial in winter.

- Avoid touching your face. Cold viruses can live on your hands for up to 24 hours and can enter your body through your nose, mouth, and eyes.

- Stay away from people who are sick to minimize your exposure to the virus.

2. Stay Hydrated

Proper hydration can support your body's infection-fighting capabilities. Here are some tips to stay well-hydrated:

- Drink lots of fluids, including water, decaffeinated tea, fruit juice, and mild soup. Avoid sugary drinks, sodas, alcohol, and coffee, which can dehydrate you.

- Set reminders to drink water throughout the day. Carrying a water bottle can be a helpful reminder.

3. Get Some Good Rest

Fighting off a cold can be taxing on your body, so make sure to let it rest and heal:

- Put your smartphone away and give your brain a break. Engage in activities like reading a lighthearted book or listening to a guided meditation.

- Take a nap if you feel the need. A short power nap can help you feel refreshed and more alert.

- Watch a heartwarming movie or do something that brings you joy to distract from the discomfort of your cold.

4. Ease Your Sore Throat

A sore throat can be a constant irritation when you have a cold. Here are some natural remedies to soothe it:

- Make your own honey lemon and ginger cough drops. There are several recipes available online that you can customize.

- Sip warm tea with honey and lemon to calm the harshness in your throat.

- Gargle with warm saltwater to reduce inflammation and provide temporary relief.

- Drink warm clear broth, such as chicken soup, to soothe the throat and provide nutrition.

- Enjoy a refreshing treat like a fresh fruit ice pop to distract and cool the throat.

5. Reduce Congestion

Mucus build-up can cause congestion and a general feeling of stuffiness. Here are some natural ways to reduce it:

- Use a cool mist vaporizer to humidify the air and help loosen mucus in the nasal passages.

- Take a hot steamy shower to relieve nasal congestion and provide relaxation.

- Try a sinus rinse with saline solution to help clear nasal passages.

- Place a warm compress on your face to provide warmth and comfort.

- Prop up your head with extra pillows before bed to allow some congestion to drain from your nose while you sleep.

6. Spice Up Your Food

Adding spices to your food can help reduce inflammation, which often occurs when your body is fighting a cold virus. Here are some ideas:

- Add turmeric, ginger, and garlic to soup to reduce inflammation.

- Sprinkle cinnamon and clove in decaf tea for an antioxidant boost and reduced inflammation.

- Use a dash of cayenne pepper in a dish to help temporarily clear a stuffy nose.

When to See a Doctor

The old saying is true: there’s no cure for the common cold. However, some of the above remedies can help you manage your symptoms. Remember, if you are still not better after a week or 2, or you start to feel worse with symptoms like persistent high fever, shortness of breath, or extreme weakness and lightheadedness, seek medical attention immediately.