Introduction
Cold and cough are common respiratory ailments that affect millions of people every year. These conditions can cause discomfort, fatigue, and interfere with daily life. While over-the-counter medicines are available, they may have negative side-effects and may not always work. Fortunately, there are natural remedies that can help cure cold and cough in a day. In this article, we will discuss some of the best natural remedies for curing cold and cough quickly.
Drink Plenty of Fluids
Staying hydrated is vital when curing a cold and cough. Liquids help to loosen mucus, soothe a sore throat, and prevent dehydration. Drink lots of water, herbal teas such as peppermint or chamomile, hot broths, and soups. Consider sipping fluids throughout the day rather than chugging large amounts at a time.
Steam Inhalation
Steam inhalation is an effective and time-tested remedy for relieving a sore throat, nose, and chest congestion. Inhaling warm, moist air helps to soothe inflamed tissues. To do steam inhalation, fill a bowl with hot water, cover your head and the bowl with a towel, and breathe in the steam for 5-10 minutes. For better results, add a few drops of eucalyptus oil or menthol to the water.
Gargle with Warm Salt Water
Gargling with warm salt water can help soothe a sore throat and reduce swelling by washing away mucus and irritants. Simply mix a teaspoon of salt with a cup of warm water and gargle with it for a few seconds before spitting it out. Repeat several times a day for relief.
Use a Humidifier
Humidifiers add moisture to the air, helping to loosen mucus and soothe irritated tissues in the nose and throat. Use a humidifier in your bedroom or other areas where you spend most of the time. Clean and maintain the humidifier regularly to prevent bacterial growth.
Restful Sleep
Getting restful sleep is one of the best ways to help your body fight off infection. Try to sleep for 7-8 hours each night and maintain a comfortable sleeping environment. Avoid sleep disruptors such as caffeine, alcohol, and too much screen time before bed.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is essential for boosting immunity and reducing the duration of cold and cough. Consume foods such as oranges, strawberries, grapefruit, kiwi, bell peppers, and broccoli that are rich in vitamin C. Alternatively, take supplements to meet your vitamin C needs.
Ginger and Honey
Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties and helps boost the immune system’s response to infection. Honey has antimicrobial properties and is a natural cough suppressant. Mixing ginger tea with honey can be beneficial. To make ginger tea, add ginger slices to a cup of boiling water and simmer for 10-15 minutes. Add honey to taste and drink several times a day.
Conclusion
Curing a cold and cough quickly requires a combination of natural remedies. Drinking plenty of fluids, doing steam inhalation, gargling with salt water, using a humidifier, getting restful sleep, consuming vitamin C, and using ginger and honey are all effective ways to alleviate symptoms and fight off infection. Give these remedies a try and consult a doctor if your symptoms persist or worsen.
