Natural Remedies For the Common Cold

WellnessWednesday

Go figure I woke up with sinuses that had decided to work overtime making snot…don’t feel so well.  But that’s OK; I’m going to practice what I preach and utilize some natural products and therapies for my cold.  Obviously, the best thing would be not getting the dang cold  in the first place, but when school starts the kids bring home all sorts of germs, the virus invasion begins and is difficult to ward off.

Hydrate – The first thing I’m going to do is drink two tall glasses of water to hydrate my mucous membranes that are likely dehydrated – a breeding ground for bacteria and viruses.

Raw Foods – Next, I need to go make some fresh juice with my Champion juicer that is turning eleven years old this month.

My virus-killing recipe:

3 large carrots

1 small apple (preferably Gala because they don’t turn brown)

A sprig of parsley

Drink immediately for best flavor and antioxidant power.  Because I am in a status virus, I will drink at least one more glass of this mixture today. I often refer to Juicing For Life, by Cherie Calbom and Maureen Keene as a resource for juice recipes, wellness information, and natural remedies for specific ailments and conditions.

Well, that was yummy and actually gave me a rush of energy like it always does.  Juicing is one of the best things you can do for your health.  According to the The United States Surgeon General, The American Cancer Society, Congress, and the National Research Institute, “Americans don’t eat enough fresh fruits and vegetables to prevent disease.”  This deficiency is primarily due to our fast-paced life styles and lust for fast food and sugary treats.  I’m aware of the extraordinary benefits and even I find it hard to get my share of them.

How much is Enough?

Some experts think we need seven servings of vegetables and two servings of fruits a day.  There are professionals that believe that we should consume even more than that – as much as 50-75% of raw foods in our diets (I have yet to obtain this goal).  According to the book Raw Energy, by Leslie and Susannah Kenton, a diet of 75% raw food can actually reverse degeneration that in turn causes long-term illness, low energy, and even emotional problems.

Ditch the Caffeine, Milk, and Sweets

I opted for a nice cup of green tea (compliments of The Red Leaf Tea Company) this morning instead of my usual milk-laced coffee.  The antioxidant power in this variety of tea is astounding.  Choosing to drink even one cup a day can boost your immune system, lower blood pressure, and even assist in weight loss.

As far as the other food/beverage components that I need to ditch, I will keep close tabs on my diet for the next few days to ensure that my body doesn’t have unneeded stress while its fighting the cold.

Clearing the Sinus Cavity

Here’s where I engage the help of my trusty Netti Pot.  Though it can be used daily for sinus irrigation, it can be especially effective during times of illness.  I have one side of my nose that is more stuffed up than the other, so I started with the looser one.  *%*@, that really burned!  Usually it doesn’t, but due to the inflammation and extra mucous, it had a little punch to it.  However, on the positive note, 15 minutes later, my nose was completely clear on the one side and about 50% improved on the other and still draining down the back of my throat.

Supplements

I’m taking extra vitamin D, C, and B complex today for an extra immune system boost.  These anti-oxidant powerhouses also contain anti-bacterial properties that will stop the production of any more invaders.  I have also added some alfalfa, Allerplex (from Standard Process), Flax oil, and Fish oil- all help with respiratory ailments and will additionally boost immune function.

Rest and Recovery

Finally, I hope to get some needed rest today.  This is one of the primary elements of health and healing.  It’s simple, if you don’t sleep well, you won’t recover as quickly.  The extra stress of any condition whether it be viral, bacterial, or a major disease will continue to tax your organs and vital body functions if you do not rest properly.  Kellie, you said it; now go rest!  Please share your best remedies for the common cold.  Be well-be beautiful.

***The content of this post is informational only and is not meant to replace the advice of you health care provider.  Women’s Life Link, its owners, authors, commentators, associates, and linked sites do not claim that any of this information will dianose, improve, or cure any condition or disease.

Photo by Juleha