Nursing a cold

Despite advances in modern medicine and technology, no cure has yet been found for the common cold. Of course, there are ways to nurse yourself in order to feel better.

Countless remedies and concoctions might ease your symptoms, but then there are also no guarantees you will get well instantly.

This is because the cold virus has to run its course, according to health experts. The normal run is 72 hours. If it is a nasty one, give yourself anywhere from seven to 14 days to fully recover. This, assuming that you do not develop a cough in the process.
Having the sniffles? Here are a few tips for you.

Hydrate — This ranks highest in the priority list. Water, fresh vegetables and fruit juices, chicken soup, bone broth and veggie broth can help you prevent dehydration. Things to avoid: Coffee, black teas (except herbal teas without caffeine), sodas, any caffeinated beverage.

Lemon Cleanse

In one glass of warm water, add a squeeze of lemon juice from a 1/4 wedge of fresh lemon add one teaspoon of honey. Sip this slowly. Do this twice daily.

Gargle — Use a saltwater solution: mix one teaspoon of sea salt (non-iodized) in a glass of warm water. Use this to soothe a scratchy, sore throat. Gargle as often as you can  all day and just before sleeping.

Try an antiseptic solution (non-alcoholic) as a gargle as well. Consider throat sprays (some with a mild anesthetic effect).

Nasal flushing — Buy an over-the-counter Saline Spray and flush your nasal passages morning and night. This can help decongest your nose and ease your breathing.  It might feel intense at first but it is an effective way to clear up congestion.

Keep warm — Abrupt changes in temperature can cause allergies, too. So, this could aggravate your cold. Wear socks. Your feet should be warm at all times. Cover your throat area with a kerchief or scarf. Avoid the draft of an open window and an electric fan. Never point the fan towards your chest or your back. The draft could aggravate your cold.

Sip warm liquids. In short, avoid cold drinks. Warm tea, soup, juices can help. Take ginger tea as it warms the body.

Honey power — With natural antibacterial properties, honey can be helpful in soothing your throat. If you are looking for honey with more potent anti-bacterial benefits, try Manuka Honey from New Zealand.

Humidifier — Adding moisture to the air you breathe can give you some relief. Use a vaporizer or steam infusion. These can help loosen congestion.

Steam inhalations with essential oils like Doterra’s peppermint and frankincense are extremely effective in providing relief.
Antibiotics — You do not need an antibiotic if you only have a cold. It cannot treat your cold virus unless your cold deteriorates into a cough or an upper respiratory infection. Consult your physician.

Other medications — Antihistamines, cold relief tablets, sprays and other preparations should be prescribed by your doctor so that you can get the most effective one to address your condition.

Foot soaks — The soles of the feet carry numerous nerve endings that can benefit from a soothing foot soak.

In a deep pan, add very warm water, add one cup of epsom salt, one cup of sea salt, then add five drops of peppermint or eucalyptus oil. Soak your feet for 30 minutes .

Rest — There is nothing like rest. Keep still and get as much sleep as you can.

Listen to inspiring music — Any music that can put you in a state of calm can prepare your body for healing. Calming the spirit is essential to reach full recovery.

Affirmation: “It is time to re-charge, re-cover and reboot.”

Love and light!