Home Treatment For Common Cold

Many people claim to know how to cure a common cold. Is there really an effective answer to this age-old question? There is however, no exact cure for a cold so the only way we are able to rid it, is by treating it. Does the home remedy our grandparents forced us to take really work or should we rather consider the advice of our doctors? Many studies have shown that although seeing a doctor is a good option, relying on home remedies to ease the cold can be just as effective.

Most people have their own home remedies for the common cold. Some of these can be supported by scientific research. Researchers are still trying to find out how to cure the common cold, but in all likelihood, there will never be a cure, only a treatment.

Treatment:

1.    There are several different remedies which aid in quick recovery. One of the best ways to fight the common cold quickly, or even to prevent it from attacking our body all together, is by strengthening our immune system. Your immune system needs rest and proper nutrition in order for it to function properly. So when you are sick, try to consume foods that improve immunity.

2.    Vitamin C - Although many scientists believe they have proven that vitamin C does not really prevent colds, if you have a vitamin C deficiency, then taking this supplement will most certainly help your body through this illness.

3.    Fruit juices have long been considered home cures for the common cold. Both lemon and orange juice are excellent sources of vitamin C, one of the best known anti-oxidants. There have been hundreds more studies about vitamin C and the common cold than there have about green tea and the common cold. Numerous books have been written on the subject.

4.    Garlic is another herb known for its antibacterial properties. Garlic aids in improving appetite as well so patients eat better even with their condition. The herb can be prepared in different ways as soup, tea or juice. If the patient can tolerate, they can eat pure garlic as well.

5.    Tamarind-pepper rasam is also considered an effective home remedy for a cold practiced in South India . Dilute fifty milligram tamarinds in 250 ml of water. Boil the diluted tamarind i.e. imli water for a few minutes with a tablespoon of hot ghee and 1/2 a teaspoon of black pepper powder. This steaming hot rasam (soup) has a flushing effect, and should be taken thrice daily. As one takes it, the nose and eyes water and the nasal blockage is cleared instantly.

6.    Ginger is another excellent herb that is a good remedy for colds and coughs. About 10 grams of ginger should be cut into small pieces and boiled in a cup of water. It should then be strained and1/2 a teaspoon of sugar added to it. This decoction should be drunk when hot. Ginger tea, arranged by adding a few pieces of ginger into boiling water before adding the tea leaves, is also an efficient remedy for colds and for fevers resulting from cold. It may be taken 2 times a day.