Top 10 Home Remedies for Common Cold
The common cold is a frequent infection of the upper respiratory tract, caused mainly by rhinoviruses. Symptoms usually appear 2-3 days after infection and last 7-14 days. Here are 10 natural remedies to help alleviate symptoms.
1. Garlic
Garlic contains allicin, which has antiviral and antibacterial properties. It enhances immunity and clears respiratory passages. Mix crushed garlic with lemon juice, honey, and cayenne pepper for a daily remedy.
2. Raw Honey
Raw honey soothes an irritated throat, reduces cough, and fights bacteria. Mix 2 teaspoons of honey with 1 teaspoon of lemon juice every 2 hours, or give ½ teaspoon to children over 1 year before bedtime.
3. Ginger
Ginger has antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and expectorant properties. Drink ginger tea by boiling 1 tbsp chopped ginger in 2 cups of water, steep for 10 minutes, and add honey and lemon.
4. Chicken Soup
Chicken soup is rich in nutrients and antioxidants, which can speed up recovery. It also helps prevent dehydration. Prepare homemade soup with organic chicken and vegetables for best results.
5. Red Onion
Homemade red onion syrup can relieve sore throat. Layer sliced red onions with honey in a jar, let sit 12-15 hours, and take a spoonful several times daily.
6. Black Pepper
Piperine in black pepper improves nutrient absorption and alleviates cough and congestion. Use in cooking, gargle with warm water and pepper, or simply inhale the aroma for relief.
7. Mullein Tea
Mullein tea acts as an expectorant, helping clear chest congestion. Steep dried mullein herb in boiling water for 5-10 minutes, sweeten with honey, and drink 2-3 times daily.
8. Turmeric Milk
Turmeric milk with ginger powder helps reduce cough, body aches, and headaches. Boil milk with ½ tsp turmeric and ginger powder, cool slightly, and drink twice daily.
9. Cinnamon
Cinnamon contains cinnamaldehyde, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Make tea with 1 tbsp cinnamon powder and 2 cloves in boiling water for 15 min, add honey, and drink warm 1-3 times daily.
10. Vitamin C
Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) boosts the immune system and supports proper nervous system function. Rich sources include:
- Indian gooseberry (Amla)
- Cantaloupe
- Oranges, grapefruits, lemons, limes
- Kiwifruit
- Mango
- Papaya
- Pineapple
- Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, cranberries
FAQ – Top 10 Home Remedies for Common Cold
What are some home remedies for the common cold?
The common cold can be relieved using natural remedies such as garlic, raw honey, ginger, chicken soup, red onion, black pepper, mullein tea, turmeric milk, cinnamon, and vitamin C-rich foods.
How does garlic help with cold relief?
Garlic contains allicin with antiviral and antibacterial properties. It enhances immunity and clears respiratory passages. Crush garlic and mix with lemon juice, honey, and cayenne pepper for daily use.
What is the benefit of raw honey for colds?
Raw honey soothes irritated throats, reduces coughing, and fights bacteria. Mix with lemon juice every 2 hours or give ½ teaspoon to children over 1 year before bedtime.
How can ginger be used for cold relief?
Ginger has antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and expectorant properties. Boil 1 tbsp chopped ginger in 2 cups water, steep 10 minutes, add honey and lemon to make tea.
Is chicken soup effective for colds?
Yes, chicken soup is rich in nutrients and antioxidants, helps prevent dehydration, and speeds up recovery. Homemade soup with chicken and vegetables is best.
How does red onion syrup help?
Red onion syrup relieves sore throat. Layer sliced onions with honey in a jar for 12-15 hours and take a spoonful several times daily.
What role does black pepper play?
Piperine in black pepper enhances nutrient absorption and alleviates cough and congestion. Use in cooking, gargle, or inhale the aroma.
How is mullein tea used for colds?
Mullein tea acts as an expectorant to clear chest congestion. Steep dried mullein in boiling water for 5-10 minutes, sweeten with honey, and drink 2-3 times daily.
What are the benefits of turmeric milk?
Turmeric milk reduces cough, body aches, and headaches. Boil milk with ½ tsp turmeric and ginger powder, cool slightly, and drink twice daily.
How does cinnamon help with cold relief?
Cinnamon has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Make tea with cinnamon powder and cloves, steep 15 minutes, add honey, and drink warm 1-3 times daily.
Which foods are rich in Vitamin C for colds?
Foods rich in vitamin C include Indian gooseberry (Amla), cantaloupe, citrus fruits, kiwifruit, mango, papaya, pineapple, and berries such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and cranberries.
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