How to get rid of a cold naturally
So you’ve succumbed to a cold! Your nose is running, your throat is sore and you’ve a hacking cough – it happens to us all! Read on for top tips and products that might help shorten, ease your suffering and beat your cold fast.
Get some Echinacea
Most famously, Echinacea is used as a remedy to benefit those who have contracted the common cold. It’s generally accepted that having a regular Echinacea intake can not only help to lessen and reduce the duration of cold symptoms, but also to prevent colds in the first place.
So, the question is: how does Echinacea work? This relief can be attributed to the organic phenol compounds found in the plant. Phenols contain antioxidant properties, which are beneficial to human health.
Echinacea plant-based remedies are widely acknowledged to increase the production of white blood cells in the body. Our immune systems rely on white blood cells to prevent and ease the symptoms of colds, while the plant’s genetic makeup contains antimicrobial substances which fight off negative microorganisms.
It's no surprise that Echinacea is one of the most popular natural herbal remedies. To try our homegrown, high quality Echinacea tincture.
Boost zinc level & Diet
Eating foods rich in zinc may be an effective way of keeping your immune system topped up – cacao powder and cashews are good sources of zinc as are other nuts, seeds and beans. Eating lots of fruit and vegetables, including green, leafy veg like chard and spinach, peppers, broccoli, peas, kiwi fruit and citrus fruits are another good source. And it is super important to stay hydrated and to drink, drink, drink! Always avoid alcohol, coffee and caffeinated sodas, which can make dehydration worse.
Soothe with lemon, honey and ginger
For those you have a sore throat a honey and lemon hot drink or ginger tea is a known comforting classic. Honey is a great throat soother. Studies investigating respiratory infections in children, with symptoms ranging from a hacking cough and runny nose to fever, found that a single night time dose of honey can have a small, but effective influence on their cough and help them sleep better.
Lemon is rich in vitamin C and has anti-bacterial properties and ginger, while also tasting delicious, has some interesting health benefits and has been used in traditional medicine throughout history. Active compounds, including gingerols, have meant that ginger has been used to soothe a wide array of illnesses from nausea to the common cold, fever and sore throats.
Get plenty of rest
We all know getting enough sleep is essential for physical and mental health, but there’s also a close link between the immune system response and quality of sleep. Studies have revealed that natural sleep/wake cycle have a strong regulatory effect on the immune system. Scientists are only beginning to fully understand the purpose of sleep and its underlying mechanisms, but lack of sleep is associated with many illnesses, including infection.
If you're unwell, sleep can be difficult, so make sure that you have a comfortable, dark bedroom and try our Temple Balm. The Temple Balm was designed to soothe the mind before sleep. Hops are often used in ‘sleep pillows’, while Meadowsweet boasts mild pain-relieving properties. Other ingredients include essential oils of cooling Spearmint, calming Roman Chamomile and relaxing Lavender to complement its soothing effects - while Ylang Ylang helps you to unwind.
Easy Breathe Balm
While you have a cold try our Easy Breathe Balm. This balm is ideal for clearing airways, thanks to its powerful blend of Eucalyptus, Peppermint, Spearmint and Lemon Tea Tree essential oils. These ingredients, combined with Marshmallow root extract, provide a wholesome, 100% organic chest rub that offers soothing natural relief for other cold symptoms.
We hope these tips and products help you beat your cold naturally!