Feeling that dreaded tickle in your throat or experiencing a runny nose? You might be on the verge of catching a cold. While colds are common and usually harmless, they can still make you feel miserable.

The good news is that there are several remedies you can try to relieve your symptoms and potentially shorten the duration of your cold. Read on to discover some effective methods to combat cold symptoms and get back on your feet in just 24 hours.

1. Rest and Hydration

One of the most important things you can do when you’re on the verge of a cold is to rest and stay hydrated. Make sure you get plenty of sleep to allow your body to heal and recover.

Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, herbal tea, or warm soup, to prevent dehydration and soothe your throat.

2. Steam Inhalation

Steam inhalation is an excellent way to relieve nasal congestion and alleviate cold symptoms. Boil a pot of water and remove it from the heat source.

Place your face at a safe distance above the steaming water, covering your head with a towel to trap the steam. Breathe deeply for about 10-15 minutes, taking breaks if needed. The warm steam will help loosen mucus and clear your nasal passages.

3. Saline Nasal Rinse

A saline nasal rinse can provide quick relief from nasal congestion and help flush out any irritants or allergens from your nasal passages.

Mix a saline solution with distilled or boiled water and rinsing salt and use a neti pot or nasal syringe to gently irrigate your nostrils. Follow the instructions carefully to ensure a safe and effective rinse.

4. Warm Saltwater Gargle

If you’re experiencing a sore throat, a warm saltwater gargle can help soothe the pain and reduce inflammation. Dissolve half a teaspoon of salt in warm water and gargle the mixture for about 30 seconds. Spit it out and repeat several times a day.

The saltwater helps to draw out the excess fluid in your throat and reduce swelling.

5. Honey and Lemon

Honey and lemon are well-known natural remedies for cold symptoms. Mix a tablespoon of honey and a squeeze of lemon juice in warm water or herbal tea.

This concoction can help soothe a sore throat, boost your immune system, and provide temporary relief from coughing.

6. Over-the-Counter Medications

In addition to natural remedies, over-the-counter (OTC) medications can also provide relief. Pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help ease headache, fever, and body aches.

Decongestant nasal sprays or oral decongestants may help alleviate nasal congestion. Always follow the instructions and consult a healthcare professional if you have any underlying health conditions.

7. Eat Nutritious Foods

A balanced diet can give your body the energy and nutrients it needs to fight off a cold. Focus on consuming nutrient-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.

Vitamin C-rich foods like citrus fruits, strawberries, and bell peppers can help support your immune system. Avoid foods that can increase inflammation or worsen cold symptoms, such as processed snacks and sugary drinks.

8. Stay Warm and Relieve Muscle Aches

Feeling achy and chilly? Keep yourself warm by dressing in layers and wrapping up with a cozy blanket. Use a heating pad or warm compress to soothe muscle aches and ease discomfort.

Resting in a warm bath with Epsom salts can also provide relaxation and relief.

9. Nasal Strips

If nasal congestion is making it difficult for you to breathe, try using nasal strips. These adhesive strips can help open up your nasal passages, allowing for improved airflow and easier breathing.

Apply the strip across the bridge of your nose before going to sleep or whenever needed.

10. Herbal Remedies

Certain herbal remedies have been praised for their potential to relieve cold symptoms. Echinacea, for example, is believed to enhance the immune system and reduce the severity and duration of a cold.

Elderberry extract is another popular herbal remedy known for its antiviral properties. Consult a healthcare professional before using herbal remedies, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions or are taking other medications.

Although these remedies can help relieve cold symptoms, it’s important to remember that there is no magic cure for a common cold.

Be patient with your body as it fights off the infection, and give yourself the rest and care you need to recover fully.