Treating Colds and Allergies

Last week our household was struck with the dreaded summer cold. Nothing kills a warm summer day faster than wanting to go out in the sun but already feeling hot and clammy, or wanting to run around outside and feeling achy and stuffy and tired. Here are a few home remedies that can help you get back on track to feeling your best.

Gargling salt water helps to kill bacteria in your mouth and throat and loosens any phlegm that contributes to your throat feeling scratchy. It also helps dull the pain of a sore throat. Some people also gargle warm mouthwash with similar results.

Ginger root, when grated and steeped in warm water, makes a spicy tea that helps to calm your nausea from a runny nose. It's also anti-inflammatory, anti-viral and boosts your circulation, which helps to ease irritated noses, sore throats and headaches.

Turmeric tea is a lighter summer alternative to the healing turmeric milk recipe featured here a couple weeks ago. The bitter, sweet and sour flavors compliment each other interestingly and feel great on your nose and throat. Squeeze half a lemon, a teaspoon of honey and half a teaspoon turmeric into a mug and stir together to make a syrup. Slowly pour hot water until your mug is full, then let steep for 5 minutes for full healing effects. Fresh turmeric, like fresh ginger, is a knobbly root that can be found in the produce section of most stores and Asian grocers. However, powdered turmeric works just fine too.

Keep exercising. This may seem counter-intuitive, but studies have shown that aside from preventing sickness, exercising actually helps you to feel better during sickness. Exercising at the same intensity as you normally would when you have a cold surprisingly doesn't inhibit your performance in any area. It doesn't seem to cure colds faster, but participants who exercised found that they felt better and more energetic sooner than participants who didn't. Studies haven't been done yet with sickness beyond colds. However, use caution if your cold involves fever or chest congestion as intense activity may exacerbate more serious ailments.

Drink plenty of water and get plenty of rest. This goes without saying, but don't oversleep either. Sleeping too much can be just as detrimental as sleeping too little. Get in a solid 8 hours and always have a glass of water nearby.


If you are struck with the same misfortune I was, hopefully these tips will help you get back on your feet again. Until next time, keep it clean! :)