Trusting on home remedies to cure common cold and cough is something that many Indian households still believe. Besides treating common cold and cough effectively, these home remedies are also free from any side-effects. Here we have mentioned some of these home remedies that will help you treat common cold and cough.
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1....Saltwater:
Gargling with saltwater is something that doctors will often recommend to ease a sore throat caused by the common cold. Saltwater is osmotic, meaning that it changes the direction fluid moves. In the throat, saltwater draws moisture away from the area of soreness and, in doing so, helps reduce swelling and irritation.
2.....Ginger:
Ginger (Zingiber officinale) has long been used to treat nausea and upset stomach, but there is evidence that it can also suppress the cough reflex by relaxing the smooth muscles of the airways.
A 2013 review of studies from Columbia University reported that gingerol, a chemical compound in fresh ginger, is able to suppress airway hyperresponsiveness that can trigger symptoms of asthma—including cough.14 It not only appears to do so when taken orally (such as with tea or by sucking on candied ginger), but also when it is inhaled in steam.
It is important to avoid consuming too much ginger, however, as it may cause stomach upset, heartburn, or diarrhea.
3.....Honey:
Honey is an ancient home remedy for cough and even science vouches for its health benefits. As per a study, honey is more effective in treating cough as compared to any other over-the-counter (OTC) drug. Its antioxidants, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties can help soothe a sore throat. It is effective for people of all age groups. However, it should never be given to babies under 1 as in some cases it may lead to infant botulism.
Directions: Mix 2 teaspoons of honey in herbal tea or warm water. Drink it twice daily for an effective result.
4......Turmeric:
Turmeric is a common spice found in every Indian household and it is effective in treating different health problems. Curcumin is the hero of this spice and is known for its antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. This yellow spice is used to prepare Ayurvedic medicine for centuries to treat respiratory disease.
Directions: Add 1/4th teaspoon of turmeric in a glass of warm milk and drink it before going to bed.
5.......Garlic:
Garlic (Allium sativum), like turmeric, also has mild antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties. Taking garlic on a regular basis is also said to lower blood pressure and boost the immune system.
Garlic is purported to relieve cough associated with the common cold, although most studies investigating the effect have been mixed. A 2014 review in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews could find no benefit in using garlic to prevent or treat cold or cold symptoms in any of the eight reviewed studies.
With that said, garlic is generally considered safe.
6.......Peppermint:
The refreshing peppermint leaves contain a compound called menthol, which can numb the nerve endings in the throat that become irritated by coughing. The menthol can also help to break down mucus and reduce congestion.
Directions: Try peppermint tea 2-3 times a day to reduce the problem of coughing. You can also use peppermint oil as aromatherapy.
7......Steam:
A wet cough, which is one that produces mucus or phlegm, may improve with steam. Take a hot shower or bath and allow the bathroom to fill with steam. Stay in this steam for a few minutes until symptoms subside. Drink a glass of water afterward to cool down and prevent dehydration.
Alternatively, make a steam bowl. To do this, fill a large bowl with hot water. Add herbs or essential oils, such as eucalyptus or rosemary, which may also relieve decongestion. Lean over the bowl and place a towel over the head. This traps the steam. Inhale the vapors for 5 minutes. If the steam feels hot on the skin, discontinue until the skin cools down.
People with a wet cough or chest congestion may also wish to follow the recommendations of the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) and use a cool-mist humidifier or steam vaporizer in their home.