Natural Remedies for the Common Cold
by Brandy Cordova
According to the National Center for Health Statistics, 62 million cases of the common cold occur each year in the United States. More than 200 different viruses are known to cause the symptoms associated with the common cold. The most common cold-causing viruses survive better in low humidity, during the colder months of the year.
Although the common cold is usually mild, with symptoms lasting a week or two, it is the leading cause of doctor visits. Well, if viruses cause common colds, and there are no cures for viruses, why are so many people making doctor visits and why are so many doctors prescribing antibiotics for a virus, when antibiotics only work against bacterial infections?
Instead of wasting time and money at a doctor’s office and on useless medications, try some natural remedies. The first line of defense against the common cold is to maintain a strong and healthy body that supports the immune system’s ability to fight infections. If the cold does attack, the second line of defense is safe and fast symptomatic relief, which can be achieved with natural remedies.
In order to maintain a strong and healthy body that supports the immune system’s infection-fighting ability, you need make sure you get plenty of rest, eat a healthy, balanced diet, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and
If you do catch the cold, there are quite a few must-do’s, such as stay away from others as to not spread the virus, get plenty of rest and drink plenty of fluids, as well as there being many natural remedies that can help alleviate cold symptoms.
One of the most common herbs used as both an immune stimulant and infection fighter is Echinacea. This native North American plant has been used for centuries by Native Americans and early settlers for its infection-fighting properties. As well as fighting infections, many recent studies demonstrate that Echinacea is an effective immuno-stimulant. This herb can be taken before the onset of cold symptoms, as well as during the cold to help fight the infection. However, Echinacea loses its therapeutic potency with constant daily use. Many practitioners suggest either a three-day-on, three-day-off regimen, or a one-week-on, one-week-off regimen.
Garlic is another powerful weapon in the fight against the cold. Allicin is the main ingredient of garlic’s essential oil and is responsible for its antibiotic, antiseptic, expectorant and immune-stimulating properties. It is rich in vitamins A, B1, B2 and C, and can be eaten raw or taken in capsule form.
Astragalus is used widely amongst Asian and Western herbalists to help strengthen the body’s resistance to infection and to relieve cold symptoms. Astragalus is an adaptogen, meaning it helps protect the body against various stresses.Along with these natural remedies, there are others such as Elderberry, zinc, vitamin C, green tea, honey, ginseng, ginger, and much more. As with all herbs, supplements, and medications, consult with an herbalist or healthcare practitioner before using and do your research.
Category: The Future
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