Keep Warm to Naturally Fend Off the Common Cold

Disclaimer: Results are not guaranteed*** and may vary from person to person***.

Natural Treatments for the Common ColdI like to think of this week as the first “official” week of the New Year. The reason? I tend to get hit with a holiday crash during the first week. I’m a bit wiped out from all of the year-end events and have a hard time getting back into the swing of things.

So usually, the first week of January is a write-off.

If you’re anything like me, you know what I’m talking about. December can take a lot out of you and by the time the New Year rolls around, your body is screaming for a break. But now we’re right into the thick of cold season, and the potential of getting knocked on your butt for a few days is always only a sneeze away.

A new study I read yesterday about the rhinovirus—or the common cold—lends itself nicely to the theory that the best way to deal with a cold is to wrap up and keep warm. A research team from Yale University recently learned that the common cold virus replicates more quickly in cooler temperatures than warmer ones. For example, they learned that it’s easier for a cold to replicate and grow in your nasal cavities, where it is cooler than your lungs.

Part of the reason why might have to do with how your immune system reacts. The team learned that your immune system response weakens in colder temperatures, while in some cases, minor genetic deficiencies hampered immune system sensors that detect and kill viruses. This could be part of the reason why some people are so susceptible to colds, while others rarely get them.

Three Ways to Naturally Treat the Common Cold

If you’re currently battling a cold or soon find yourself with one this season, there are natural ways to limit its impact:

Keep Warm and Hydrated

Based on the results of this study, warming up with a blanket and a hot cup of tea are definitely worthwhile. Do your best to keep your body temperature up and keep hydrated with fluids like green tea to open up airways and limit mucus.

Get Lots of Sleep

Getting rest is also important, so if you have sick days at work, it’s worthwhile to take them. Getting a day or two of solid rest can help you kick a cold quickly, so it’s not lingering around for a week or two.

Gargle with Warm Salt Water

Gargling water can help soothe the scratchy feeling in your throat. Dissolve a teaspoon of salt in warm water and gargle up to four times daily for sore throat relief.

The common cold is almost unavoidable, but it doesn’t have to be a big distraction. Stay warm, get your rest, and give yourself the best opportunity to recover as quickly as possible.

Also Read : How Pizza Can Relieve Your Cold Symptoms

Source for Today’s Article:
Yale University, “Cold Virus Replicates Better at Colder Temperatures,” ScienceDaily web site, January 5, 2015; http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/01/150105170014.htm.