Colds are commonplace and can be frequent problems for people who have challenged immune systems. People with colds tend to suffer with nasal congestion or drainage, chest congestion, sore throats, coughing, sneezing and fevers. Colds often make us feel run down and achy. However, there are available alternative remeies that have proven themselves useful. These alternative treatments may be all that you need to resolve, or at least control the symptoms of, your cold.
Foods
Almost everyone has heard the adage about chicken soup being good for a cold. Well, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, chicken soup does indeed help to relieve congestion and body aches from colds. Apparently, the steam from the hot soup can have a soothing effect, and the ingredients from the soup have anti-inflammatory properties.
Also helpful for treating a cold-- hot, spicy foods. Eating a dish with spicy peppers can help to relieve congested sinuses, allowing you to breathe much easier.
Zinc
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, zinc helps to improve the immune system and can even have a beneficial effect on the viruses that cause colds. Because of the boost in the immune system, zinc may actually decrease the amount of time you suffer from a cold. Zinc can be purchased from your local pharmacy or health food store as a lozenge, or as a supplement that can be taken orally. The University of Michigan recommends taking a zinc supplement of 13 to 25 milligrams every two hours to help with shortening the cold. There are also zinc nasal gels on the market that may provide benefit. Although there has not been much research done on the efficacy of zinc, many people still believe in its benefits and continue to use the supplement as a treatment for colds.
Nasal Wash and Sprays
Nasal washes consist of saline solution that can be poured or squirted into the nasal cavity to wash out irritants, bacteria and excess mucous. They are helpful in relieving stuffiness or dryness of the nasal cavity that colds can cause. In addition, nasal sprays can also be helpful with relieving nasal problems associated with colds. Unlike nasal washes that typically get used at home, nasal sprays can be easily carried in a purse or pocket for use any time it may be needed. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the best nasal saline sprays contain a compound called benzalkonium chloride which can sometimes worsen symptoms. Therefore, try to purchase a nasal spray that is simply salt water, or saline, which does not contains additives.
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