Best Head Cold Remedies

Head colds are something that everyone have to deal with at some point or the other. A head cold is one of the most common illnesses, if I may term it so, and is hence, commonly called 'Common cold'. We've been hearing how to deal with this head cold since childhood, but how many of the remedies actually work? What are really the best head cold remedies? These questions are answered in this article.

A head cold may initially seem as one of those headaches we're often used to after long hours of work and a strenuous routine for a few days. Though the head cold doesn't last more than a few days and doesn't have many consequences, it's irritating to have an aching head all the time with that cold that just won't quit. Here are some of the remedies that you can go through.

6 Remedies to Fight Your Head Cold

Salt Water
Yes, you should have believed your grandmother when she told you that this is the best remedy for head cold. Salt water, an age-old remedy for colds and coughs does work as one of the best head cold cures if applied in the earlier stages of cough and cold. Though it does soothe down the head cold and cough even in the later stages, the speed is much lesser than what the ones which anti biotics can provide.

Blow your nose
I know this is obviously a home remedy, but it is surely one of the best ways to get rid of a head cold. This is so as this prevents us from having a head cold in the first place. Blowing your nose from time to time will help you have a clear nose that will ease your breathing and avoid congestion of the nostrils due to cold.

Fluids
We can't flush out the cold but we can drink enough fluids that might help in the process of doing the same. Juices, lemon water, normal water and other liquids can help to quite a large extent in getting rid of the cold. These help in dehydration and loosening the congestion of the nostrils and sinusitis. Although these fluids help, there are some that don't, such as caffeine drinks and alcohol.

Chicken Soup
Yes, chicken soup is one of the best head cold remedies as it works in not one, but two ways. Firstly, it helps in the movement of the immune system cells called neutrophils which help in the inflammatory response of the body. Secondly, it increases the movement of the mucus, helping in getting rid of the time bound viruses and also in relieving congestion.

Nasal Drops and Sprays
Saline nasal sprays and drops are an important part of the treatment as they fight the congestion in the nostrils caused due to mucus and are recommended by many doctors. Sometimes, the drops are instilled only in one nostril and are suctioned out by a bulb syringe. The best part about this remedy for head cold is that it has no side effects that will cause major problems. However, even so, consultation of a doctor is a must in this case.

Humidity
Head cold viruses are known to grow more in winters and cold temperatures. Dry air helps in drying of the mucous membranes and thus helps in avoiding a head cold, or any cold for that matter. It does lead to a scratchy throat at times. To use this as remedy, you can get a humidifier to add moisture to your house. However, clean it regularly as this can be a thriving place for mold and bacteria if not cleaned from time to time.

Another remedy that can help is Echinacea, which is actually a herbal remedy but is available in tablets and is one of the best medicine for head cold. There are also some more cures that might work, such as inhaling the aromas of certain teas or consuming garlic heated water. These are age-old remedies that still do hold true in some cases.

So, these were some of the best head cold remedies that I hope help you while treating your head cold. Every remedy works differently for every person, so always consult a doctor initially to know what is the best cure for head cold for you. Though head colds are common and aren't much of a worry, it's always good to be sure from your side and take all the necessary precautions.