Colds; Cure and Concern

Caused by any of about 20 different viruses, colds are usually no big deal, persistent symptoms can signal a more serious problem such as bronchitis or a sinus infection. The common cold, however, will usually run its course in 7 to 14 days. The natural remedies in this chapter, used with your doctor’s approval, may help prevent a cold or relieve its symptoms, according to some health professionals.

Colds and Cure
Acupressure, is one of the many natural ways of helping your body expel cold viruses at a faster rate and it can also provide relief from congestion and muscle aches. For a cold with a dry cough and fever, it is suggested that the pressure points located in the depressions directly below the protrusions on the left and right sides of the collarbone, under the base of the skull, and at the outer edge of each elbow crease, when pressed can bring in immense relief. There are other means of getting rid of that head ache especially when you already have congestion set in deep in your chest.

You could press with your index finger and thumb a region in between the web of the thumb and index finger, on either sides. It pains most when you have excessive headache, so you’ll have to be a little careful, lest you might scream in agony. Aroma therapy also provides great relief in case you are contemplating on using its medicinal benefits as scenting a room with the right essences can alleviate the symptoms of a cold. Exotic essences such as ravensare and niaouli for their natural anti-infectious and antiviral properties. Strong smells like eucalyptus and camphor can also be used, in case you’re not too familiar with smells. You can also blend the exotic essences with sweeter-smelling oil such as rosewood or lemon for an added effect.

Colds according to Ayurveda, which they view as the kapha-vata disorder can be treated with ginger tea, and warm lemon juice, mixed with a few drops of honey. Ginger is known to reduce the effects of many such ailments. The strong tasting juices of ginger can cure a really sore throat. You could also the prescription of mixing ½ teaspoon each of fennel seeds and ginger. Since both these are both blood thinners, its best when you drink them with warm water as they fight the bacteria that cause colds to occur and help in building immunity. Most of all what really helps in an absolute emergency situation with a runny nose and terrible headaches is Vitamin C.

Load your system with Vitamin C supplements and you’ll notice a vast difference in the way it makes you a lot fitter to battle all allergies floating in the air. Try and make it a part of your daily routine, it will definitely do you more good than harm. There are many supplements that are available under the garb of Vitamin C, so you’ll have to choose!

Moreover, there is a difference in the way your body might react to the cold too. For some eating more cold foods help in battling the cold more effectively. Although I don’t really harp on this one, I am sure you can stick to the age old methods of gargling religiously, this time with a mouth wash, as its anti-bacterial properties actually help you and your throat from getting tarnished further. As far as possible try sipping in warm black coffee from time to time, in case you are in an office atmosphere. Hope these remedies help you get on to a speedy recovery.