Common Cold Home Remedies

The common cold is caused by a virus infection which affects the upper respiratory tract. It is a frequently occurring condition as there above 200 viruses that cause the infection. As a result of this, the body is unable to immunize itself against all strains of the virus, and so the common cold occurs more frequently than any other illness.

The symptoms of common cold include blocked nose, mucus discharge from the nose and soreness in the throat. Individuals may also experience sneezing, coughing, headache and fever. These symptoms may persist for a period of three to ten days. The cold spreads from direct contact with infected individuals. If an individual affected by the cold touches his nose and then touches another surface, other individuals who touch that same surface are likely to become infected. The cold virus can survive on objects for many hours and so it is very easy to contract the infection. Cold temperatures do not cause the common cold, although the frequency of the infection is greater during winter months. It is believed that since people spend more time indoors and in close proximity with one another, the virus is likely to spread. It is for this reason that school-going children and those kept in day care are more susceptible to the common cold.

When affected by the common cold, especially if there is fever, it is advisable to avoid eating solid foods. Drink plenty of vegetable and fruit juices and avoid foods such as fish, meat, eggs and any starchy food. Once the condition improves, one must eat healthy balanced meals consisting of vegetables, fruits, nuts and seeds. An effective remedy for common cold is garlic soup. This can be prepared by boiling chopped garlic in water. This will clear up the airways and also alleviate fever. Ginger tea is another beneficial remedy for treating the common cold.  You can also make a paste of the root of bitter gourd and honey and consume at night daily. An age old remedy for the common cold is a glass of warm milk to which a half a teaspoon of turmeric has been added. The turmeric is very effective in easing throat soreness. An effective way to unblock the nasal passage and alleviate congestion is to prepare a soup of tamarind and pepper. Regular intake of vitamin C will help to prevent colds. Taking vitamin C is large doses also helps to reduce cold symptoms and quicken recovery.