It starts off with a sore throat, sneezing, runny nose, and an all-around feeling of discomfort. Catching a cold is no fun and there is no medical cure for the common cold. Scratchy sore throats can be irritated by post-nasal drip, which is mucus from the nose dripping to the back of the throat. Of course, drinking plenty fluids, getting rest, and good old-fashioned chicken soup can all help soothe a cold accompanied by post-nasal drip and there are a variety of alternative treatments that can aid in relieving symptoms.
Aromatherapy
Valerie Ann Worwood, author and aromatherapy specialist, suggests that using aromatherapy can help relieve symptoms of colds and post-nasal drip. Inhaling such oils as eucalyptus, rosemary, tea tree, peppermint or lavender, can bring temporary relief. There are several ways to use aromatherapy. You add drops of your chosen oil to a humidifier or place a few drops on a cotton ball and gently sniff. You can make an herbal steam by boiling water, add 10 to 15 drops of the oils and place a towel over your head and breathe in the steam. Another option is to take a warm bath with the oil in the tub, or to purchase diffusers which disperse the oils into the air.
Herbal Therapies
According to David Y. Wrong, M.D., author of "The Complete Guide to Vitamins, Herbs and Supplements," there are a variety of herbs that can assist in dealing with symptoms of a cold or post-nasal drip. He suggests echinacea for building the immune system and improving healing time. Ginger can help with congestion in the head and chest and also helps with chills. Thyme aids in soothing sore throats and can help lessen post-nasal drip while hyssop is a good antiviral and expectorant. Garlic boosts the immune system and has properties that can help fight a cold. These herbs can be found in tinctures, teas and capsules.
Neti Pot
David Rabago, M.D., one of the leading researchers on nasal irrigation, suggests that a neti pot can help relieve post-nasal drip and is relatively safe. The neti pot is a device that resembles a teapot with a long spout. These pots are normally filled with warm salt water and inserted into the nasal cavity to irrigate and cleanse the nostrils. This keeps nasal passages clean and free of debris, which is important since the nose is an easy pathway for disease and infection to enter the body.
References
- Holistic Online
- The Complete Guide to Vitamins, Herbs and Supplements; Winifred Conkling, David Y. Wrong, M.D.; 2006
- The One Minute: by Dana Ullman; 2004
