The holiday season has started now your body is probably feeling a little worn down and depleted. We are all guilty of indulging a little too much during the holidays: late nights, less sleep, cocktails, and one too many cookies. Although, at the time it didn’t seem like I was doing too much harm to my body, after a while all the jubilation of the holidays starts to take a toll. As a result, my system has to work overtime in order to process the toxins. Now add an irregular weather pattern, where one week its below freezing and the next it feels like spring, and you have a recipe for the perfect cold.
The common cold is a multitude of viruses and unfortunately, a virus is not curable. I am not referring to COVID-19, I am talking about the plain ole common cold virus. When the virus enters your system your body tries to fight it off and that results in unpleasant symptoms, like coughing, a sore throat, congestion, sneezing, and mild fatigue. These 5 remedies listed below are aimed to bring some relief to your body as your immune system kicks into high gear to fight the cold virus.
1. Garlic, Lemon, and Honey Brew
This is one of those classic remedies that you don’t need to question why it works. It has been used for decades and it always seems to bring relief when we’re feeling under the weather.
What you need:
- 1 Lemon
- 1 medium clove of garlic
- 1 teaspoon of honey
- Warm Water
Instructions:
Juice the lemon into a mug. Crush up the garlic and add it to the mug. Top off with warm water and then mix in honey (you can always add more to taste). Stir in up and let it sit 1-2 minutes and then drink entirely. Repeat 2-3 times a day until symptoms dissipate
2. Steam it Out
There is no better way to get rid of a stuffy nose than creating a steam bath for yourself. My secret trick? Add essential oils! The essential oils have anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties that are carried through the steam. So while the steam is opening you up, the essential oils are helping fight off the virus,
What you need:
- 5 drops of tea tree oil
- 5 drops of eucalyptus oil
- Boiling water
- Heatproof bowl
- Towel
Instructions:
Put the essential oils in the bowl and fill the bowl 3/4 of the way with boiling water. Place your face over the bowl (being careful to not get too close) and then drape the towel over your head to trap the steam. If it becomes too warm or uncomfortable, remove your head or back away. Blow your nose immediately after!
3. Vapor Rub Alternative
I personally find it pointless to spend money on chemicals that aren’t necessarily great for my body. So ditch the store-bought stuff and try making it yourself. It is super quick to make and will help your body break down the congestion.
What you need:
- 1/2 cup of coconut oil
- 10-15 drops of peppermint oil
- Airtight container for storage
Instructions:
Meltdown coconut oil in the microwave. Add the peppermint oil and stir. Seal until it is completely cool. Simply rub a little onto your chest or right underneath your nose. To really add power to the punch, place a hot water bottle on your chest.
4. Spicy Ginger Tea
A hot cup of tea always does the trick to soothe a sore throat, but when you add ginger it can also act as a decongestant. While the honey soothes your throat, ginger contains an aromatic compound that lessens inflammation in the nasal passageways and sinus cavity. When that happens, mucus is able to flow out instead of getting stopped up.
What you need:
- 6-8 tablespoons of freshly grated ginger
- 1/2 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of honey
- 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon (optional)
- 4 cups of boiled water
- Large glass jar or container
Instructions:
Add ginger and cinnamon to the jar. Carefully pour boiling water into a jar and cover immediately to ensure the essential oils of the ginger don’t escape. Let it steep for 30 minutes. Strain into your favorite mug and then add honey and lemon. Store the rest for up to 24 hours in your refrigerator.
5. Epsom Salt Bath
Having a cold can be used as a great excuse to escape your hectic life and slip into a relaxing bath. This Epsom salt mixture provides aromatherapy that will clear your sinus while it helps your tired body relax.
What you will need:
- 1 cup of Epsom salt
- 4 drops of peppermint essential oil
- 4 drops of eucalyptus essential oil
- 4 drops of lavender essential oil
- Airtight container
Instructions:
In a small dish combine all essential oils. Pour the salt into your container and add blended essential oils. Mixing thoroughly to make sure the essential oils are mixed in well and evenly. Add 3-4 tablespoon of the salt mixture to the running water of your bath. Take deep breaths, relax, and enjoy some time to yourself!
