Chest Cold Remedies

The natural remedies for various types of cold are maybe as old as the disease itself. A chest cold can leave anyone miserable when it is accompanied by the classic symptoms such as a dry cough, wheezing and a sore throat. This is because of the thick mucus developing in the chest which results in wheezing, coughing and throat irritation. Most of the over the counter pharmaceutical drugs for combating chest cold are pretty ineffective. Also they seem to have potentially serious side-effects and interactive effects that you should be aware of. For example, most of them contain Acetaminophen which if not well-metabolized by the liver may result in an overdose, which can often be fatal. Similarly if you’re taking a medication for your cold and flu and another for pain or inflammation or fever, you risk a potential drug overdose. However, thanks to the many natural and home remedies available, the symptoms of chest cold are usually eased and the recovery speeds up without your body having to go through the pains of pharmaceutical medications.

Chest Cold Home Remedies

Inhaling Steam: Breathing in the steam from a vaporizer, hot shower or even a pan of boiling water helps loosen up all of the phlegm in your throat and lungs. Alternately, you can add 3 to 4 drops of aromatherapy essential oils like eucalyptus oil, for some instant relief.

Saltwater Gargle: Dissolving 1/2 teaspoon salt dissolved in an 8 ounce glass of warm water and gargling, can temporarily relieve a sore or scratchy throat during a chest cold.

Increase Fluid Intake: Water, juices, clear broth and lemon water with honey can help relieve the chest cold by flushing out the cold from the system while keeping you from dehydration. Also cut down on the caffeine, alcohol and sodas, as they can aggravate the dehydration.

Using Thyme: Thyme is an excellent chest cold remedy. Place two tablespoons of fresh thyme into a small cup of boiling water. Allow it to boil for about four minutes, while keeping it covered. Once done drink the mixture when it is still hot. This is a powerful remedy which helps relax the lungs and promotes expectoration of your mucus.

Saline Nasal Sprays: The over the saline nasal sprays can combat stuffiness and congestion. They will also not leave you with the irritation symptoms associated with chemical nasal decongestants.

Having Chicken Soup: Researchers at the Mayo Clinic believe that eating chicken soup helps relieve cold and flu symptoms. They speed up the mucus movement and is an anti-inflammatory remedy for reducing the symptoms of chest cold.

Using a Heat Humidifier: The heat plays a role in loosening thick chest mucus, therefore, positioning a heat humidifier in your bedroom or sitting in a steamy bathroom can get rid of congestion and ease a chest cold.

Boosting the Immune System: Boost the immune system by taking vitamin C supplements or drinking orange juice can help the body fight off the virus. Adequate sleep and rest also help in easing the chest cold symptoms.

Over the Counter medications: If these natural remedies do not do the job properly, you can try the over the counter medical prescriptions. Nonprescription decongestants and pain relievers offer some symptom relief, however, they won't prevent a cold or shorten its duration. It should be noted that antibiotics destroy bacteria and are practically of no help against cold viruses.

Although, minor colds can be very irritating and you could be tempted to try out the latest remedy available for a chest cold treatment, the best course of action is to get rest and drink plenty of water. For instant relief go in for the chest cold natural remedies, that can help ease the cold and provide relief from the symptoms.