If you have a common cold, you're not going to find a cure for the virus. Instead, you can treat the symptoms and relieve coughing, congestion and sneezing. Old-time and folk remedies that have been around for generations may help naturally relieve your cold symptoms. If you don't find any relief at home from your cold symptoms, consult your doctor.
Chicken Soup
According to the Mayo Clinic, this remedy has been found to help treat cold symptoms. Common ingredients found in chicken soup include chicken, broth, onions, garlic, carrots and parsley. These ingredients together have the ability to relieve inflammation caused by the cold as well as helping mucus move quickly through the body. This relieves congestion and shortens the duration of the cold.
Salt Water
A salt water gargle is an old-time remedy used to relieve a scratchy throat. To gargle with salt water, add approximately 1/2 tsp. salt to a full glass of warm water. Gargle the concoction in the back of your throat for several minutes before spitting it out. The results are temporary but can be done frequently for relief. Water alone is also helpful for relieving colds. Drink plenty of water to keep your fluid intake up while fighting a cold. Get your fever down by soaking in a cool bath for at least 10 minutes.
Eucalyptus
The Science Blog website recommends eucalyptus, which has the ability to open sinuses and get rid of congestion from the chest. Oils from the eucalyptus plant can be rubbed on the chest to act as a decongestant agent. If eucalyptus isn't available, dry mustard mixed with water and placed on the chest has the same effect on cold symptoms.
