Colds are very common, especially during the winter season. Cold symptoms like congestion, coughing, and sore throat can be irritating, and they can make you feel miserable.

However, there are several remedies you can try to help alleviate your cold symptoms. In this article, we will discuss eight proven ways to beat colds.

1. Drink Plenty of Fluids

Drinking fluids like water, tea, or broth can help reduce the symptoms of a cold. Fluids help to loosen the mucus, keep the throat moist, and prevent dehydration.

You can also try drinking fluids that have antimicrobial properties, like ginger tea or honey mixed with warm water. Drinking fluids is especially important if you have a fever because you lose more fluids when you have a high body temperature.

2. Use a Humidifier

A humidifier can add moisture to the air, reduce congestion, and soothe the dryness of the nasal passages and throat. Humidifiers can also help alleviate coughing and improve breathing.

Be sure to clean the humidifier regularly to prevent bacterial growth.

3. Gargle with Saltwater

Saltwater gargles can help reduce inflammation and irritation in the throat. Mix half a teaspoon of salt with a glass of warm water and gargle it for a few minutes before spitting it out.

Repeat this process several times a day to reduce the intensity of your sore throat.

4. Rest

Rest is an essential remedy for a cold. It helps your body to focus on fighting off the infection, and it also conserves energy. Sleeping or resting for longer hours can boost your immune system and help you recover faster.

Avoid strenuous activities or going out in cold weather to allow your body to focus on healing.

5. Use a Saline Nasal Spray

A saline nasal spray can help reduce congestion by loosening and flushing out the mucus. It also moisturizes the nasal passages, prevents dryness and irritation, and reduces the likelihood of developing a sinus infection.

Use the saline nasal spray several times a day to alleviate your congestion symptoms.

6. Take Over-the-counter Medication

Over-the-counter medications are available to alleviate the symptoms of colds. Medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce fever, aches, and pains. Nasal decongestants can help reduce congestion and mucus production.

Cough suppressants can help reduce a persistent cough, while antihistamines can help reduce sneezing, watery eyes and runny nose.

7. Use Essential Oils

Essential oils like eucalyptus, peppermint, or tea tree oil can help alleviate cold symptoms. You can add a few drops of essential oils to a diffuser or humidifier, or you can inhale them directly from the bottle or a steam bowl.

Essential oils have antimicrobial properties, which can help boost your immune system and reduce the duration and severity of your cold symptoms.

8. Try Natural Remedies

Natural remedies like garlic, honey, and chicken soup can also help alleviate cold symptoms. Garlic has antimicrobial properties, which can help boost the immune system and reduce the severity of your cold symptoms.

Honey has medicinal properties that can soothe the throat and reduce coughing. Chicken soup has anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce inflammation and irritation in the throat and sinuses.

Be sure to consult with your doctor before trying any home remedies. Although these remedies are proven to be effective against colds, they should not be used as a substitute for medical advice and treatment.

Conclusion

Colds can be irritating and distressing, but with these eight proven remedies, you can feel better and recover faster.

Drinking fluids, using a humidifier, gargling with saltwater, resting, using a saline nasal spray, taking over-the-counter medication, using essential oils, and trying natural remedies can all help alleviate your cold symptoms. Remember, be sure to seek medical advice if your symptoms persist or worsen.