It seems like once a year (at least) it’s inevitable that I come down with a cold. And the only thing worse than getting sick, in my opinion, is having to take all the medicine that comes with it. I find that antibiotics do a number on my digestive track, so I try to save them for the worst of the worst. If I can, I prefer to try and sooth the cold away naturally. And I have to say, I’m convinced these methods work. I figured some of you might feel the same way, so I put together a few of, what I think, are the best way to naturally ease a cold. Definitely let me know in the comments if you have any remedies as well!
Got the Sniffles? Here are 5 Natural Ways to Ease a Cold!
Humidifiers
The last time I got sick, I swear a humidifier is what saved me. It’s amazing what putting a little moisture in the air can do for congestion. Even here in Seattle, our home can feel dry because of our forced heating. Buying a humidifier might be an initial investment, but you can get a decent sized one for around $40 (like this one) and you’ll have it forever. Just make sure to keep it clean by running vinegar through it regularly. Whenever you feel a cold coming on, set it next to your bed and let it run through the night to help ease your breathing while you sleep.
I also want to add that an essential oil diffuser is basically a mini humidifier. The only difference is you can put oils into a diffuser (don’t put them in a humidifier FYI). You can set up your diffuser on your nightstand or near your bed as well and drop in some eucalyptus oil, which is known to aid the symptoms of colds.
Apple cider vinegar
This is one I was surprised about, but it works so well! It might sound kind of odd, but the next time you have a cold, take shots of apple cider vinegar a few times a day until your symptoms go away. Not to get all science-y, but from what I read, the vinegar will “alkalinize the body,” which helps kill viruses and bacteria — AKA your cold!
Raw honey
A friend told me this the last time I was sick. I’ll admit I didn’t try it, but only because I didn’t have any local, raw honey on hand (this part is very important). Honey apparently has antioxidant and antibacterial properties, which help your body get rid of colds. Just make sure that you use locally harvested honey. I’ve also heard this helps with allergies, too!
Oil of Oregano
I’ve been told to add oregano to food whenever I get the chance because it’s an antioxidant powerhouse. Good thing I’m Greek! This characteristic also makes it the ideal natural remedy for fighting colds. You can take it in oil form, but it’s also been made into convenient soft gel pills as well for easy swallowing.
Hot baths
Last, but certainly not least, take a steaming hot bath. It’s probably the oldest trick in the book, but I stand by it (remember my tips for taking the best bath ever?). Before you sit down, add in a couple ounces of ground ginger. Ginger is a natural anti-inflammatory and will promote the elimination of toxins from the body through sweat. That said, if you start sweating quite a bit, don’t freak out, that’s the ginger working its magic!
P.S. you can find even more self care and wellness tips here, including:
- 15 Winter Self-Care Ideas
- Why You Should Try a Meditation App
- The Benefits of Float Therapy
- The Lowdown on Seasonal Affective Disorder
A few of my favorite products to help naturally ease your cold:
Obviously I’m not a doctor, so always check with one first before going too crazy with the home remedies. These are just a few things that have helped me! Let me know what other natural tips you have to ease a cold down in the comments, too.
