HealthyBlackWoman.com
By Krystle Crossman
Posted November 23rd 2015
It is cold and flu season and it seems like more and more people get sick every year. A lot of people do not want to make a doctor’s visit and sit in a room where countless sick people have sat before them. Many don’t want to take medications to try and cure what ails them either. There are plenty of home remedies that can help you to ease your symptoms and make your immune system stronger so that you are more prepared for the next round of colds. Here are some great DIY remedies for the common cold:
1. Nasal sprays – You can use over the counter nasal sprays or you can use a warm salt water rinse from a Neti pot. It will flush out your nasal cavity where a lot of the mucus with the virus can hide.
2. Steam – Take a nice steamy shower or get a humidifier. The steam will help you to clear out your congestion and help to break apart the mucus that is in your chest. It can also help you to cough less as the air won’t be as dry.
3. Fluids – As with any sickness you are going to want to be drinking water all day. Drink as much as you can to help flush out your system. This can help with your congestion as well. You can also have broth or soup which will count as fluids. Try to stay away from sugary drinks.
4. Blow your nose – Make sure that you are clearing your nose out the proper way. Don’t snort the mucus back into your head as it can get into your lungs. Take a tissue, place a finger over one nostril and gently blow the mucus out of the other nostril. This will ensure that the mucus doesn’t travel to the inner ears which can happen when too much pressure is exerted.
5. Vitamins and minerals – Zinc has been proven to help ward off viruses and help to cure the common cold. Vitamin C and D are also great to take as they can help you to boost your immune system.
6. Sleep – A good night’s rest is one of the most important things that you can do for yourself when you are sick. It gives your body the time that it needs to heal. You may feel better when you are up and walking around but that can take a lot out of you during the day so at night make sure that you get at least a full 8 hours of sleep.