Starting the new year with a cleanse is a great way to rid your body of toxins from the previous year. Natural remedies, such as certain foods and spices, can be effective in achieving this.
While there is no cure for colds, coughs, and breath-related problems, there are several remedies that can help alleviate symptoms. It is important to choose the right remedy to avoid any negative effects on the body. Fortunately, there are many natural ways to address these issues.
Cold Causes, Symptoms, and Remedies
The common cold is a viral infection that affects the upper respiratory tract, including the nose, throat, and sinuses. There is no single cure for the cold, as it can be caused by various viruses.
Common symptoms of a cold include:
- Runny nose
- Congestion
- Sore throat
Natural remedies for colds include staying hydrated, getting plenty of rest, and gargling with warm salt water.
Coughing and Natural Remedies
Coughing is a reflex that helps clear the throat and airways of irritants. It is often associated with colds or the flu, but can also be triggered by allergies, smoke, or dust. While coughing can be bothersome, there are ways to find relief.
Natural Home Remedies for Cough Relief
There are several natural home remedies that can help alleviate a cough:
- Drinking plenty of fluids can help thin out mucus, making it easier to cough up.
- Steamy showers can help loosen mucus and make it easier to expel.
- Using a humidifier can add moisture to the air, which can help thin out mucus.
- Drinking warm tea with honey can soothe the throat and calm a cough.
- Chicken soup is a popular home remedy for coughs, as it provides warmth and contains ingredients that can help break up mucus.
Breath-Related Problems
There are various breath-related problems that can occur, including shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, and trouble breathing. These issues can be caused by conditions such as asthma, COPD, bronchitis, and pneumonia.
Fortunately, there are many home remedies that can help improve breathing and respiratory problems.
- Inhaling steam: Inhaling steam can help loosen mucus and phlegm, making breathing easier. Adding a few drops of eucalyptus or peppermint oil to boiling water and inhaling the vapors for 10-15 minutes can be beneficial.
- Drinking warm liquids: Warm liquids can help thin mucus, making it easier to expel. Sipping on hot water with lemon, herbal tea, or chicken soup can provide relief.
- Gargling salt water: Gargling salt water can soothe a sore or scratchy throat. Mix 1 teaspoon of salt with 8 ounces of warm water and gargle for 30 seconds before spitting out the solution.
- Using a humidifier: A humidifier adds moisture to the air, which can help loosen mucus and facilitate easier breathing. Regular cleaning of the humidifier is important to prevent the growth of mold and bacteria.
- Practicing deep breathing: Deep breathing exercises can improve lung function and alleviate breathing difficulties. Find a comfortable position, and slowly inhale and exhale through the nose.