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Kick the Ick: Natural Solutions for Treating Your Cold Symptoms

8 July 2016

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A cold is certainly one of the most miserable common illnesses out there. It hits you suddenly, leaves you feeling awful, and feels like it is never-ending. Like most people, you may know the basics of treating a cold. Fever reducers like ibuprofen and acetaminophen can be helpful, and over-the-counter cough medicine may help reduce symptoms.

However, you may still be struggling to find the relief that you want. If the drugstore remedies are not doing the trick, consider some natural remedies for treating your cold symptoms. These remedies are inexpensive and simple, so they are worth a shot if your cold is dragging you down.

Chest Congestion? Create a Homemade Vapor Rub

Chest congestion is undoubtedly one of the most uncomfortable cold symptoms. Vapor rubs do not reduce your internal congestion, but they do provide soothing relief, and making your own vapor rub is easy.

Combine about two tablespoons of coconut oil with five drops of essential oil. Spearmint, peppermint, and eucalyptus essential oils are all excellent choices. Apply this mixture to your chest to feel some soothing relief. You can also dab it underneath your nose to alleviate nasal congestion. Essential oils can be found in health food stores and many pharmacies.

Throat Discomfort? Drink One of These Herbal Teas

A sore throat is a fairly common and incredibly irritating symptom of a cold. When your throat is sore, you may feel like it is impossible to eat anything. A sore throat may even keep you up at night due to the discomfort. Fortunately, there are some inexpensive herbal teas that may help relieve your throat pain.

Echinacea tea is popular for naturally treating sore throats. There is medical evidence that shows that tablets made from echinacea may be a truly effective cold and flu treatment, so it is possible that the tea is beneficial as well. Echinacea tea can often be found in the health food section of grocery stores, and it may cost about five or six dollars per box.

Some people find the taste of echinacea a bit unpleasant. You can opt for herbal peppermint tea or honey and lemon tea to help relieve your sore throat, too. These options tend to be a bit less expensive, and they can usually be found in the coffee and tea aisles of your local grocery store.

When to See a Doctor for Your Cold

It can be difficult to know when to visit your primary care physician for a cold. However, it is important to pay attention to certain symptoms that may warrant a trip to the doctor. Some of those symptoms include:

• persistent fever

• chest pain or difficulty breathing

• coughing that lasts more than two weeks

These symptoms may be indicative of a sinus or respiratory infection. Infections like these typically need to be treated with antibiotics. If you experience these symptoms or your cold lasts more than a few weeks, schedule an appointment with your primary care physician.

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