As we head into winter, the following, yet commonly overlooked, natural remedies and precautions will help alleviate your cold and flu symptoms.
1. HONEY. Honey is a natural cough suppressant. Mix with hot water and lemon or eat a teaspoonful to soothe an aching cough.
2. HOT SOUP. Any hot brothy-type soup will relieve congested sinuses, and is even more effective when cooked with small slices of fresh ginger.
3. EAT PICKLES. Pickles can essentially cure a sore throat as they are cured in a brine of vinegar and salt water; ingredients that possess anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
4. SUPPLEMENT. Give your immune system a boost by taking the following supplements:
– VITAMIN C. Up your daily dosage of C to 1000 mg.
– ECHINACEA. Despite what skeptics say, I believe you can stop a cold in its tracks if you take 250 mg – 500 mg of echinacea daily at the onset of a cold.
– ZINC. At the first sign of a cold, take zinc lozenges or a zinc supplement (50 mg).
5. PROTECT. Protect yourself from germs and bacteria by washing hands frequently and using hand sanitizer. Also, avoid touching surfaces in public places (i.e. hand rails, door knobs/handles etc.) and do not touch your face.
6. SLEEP. Getting plenty of rest (at least 8 hours a night) will help maintain the strength of your immune system.
LITTLE MAGAZINE 