Nothing really cures the common cold but there are many things that can be done at home to improve the symptoms of the illness, including cough remedies. The Mayo Clinic explains that colds tend to last for about a week but home remedies can reduce the discomfort. Some of the most effective home remedies are thought to be old wive's tales, but the Mayo Clinic indicates most truly relieve symptoms. Home remedies are safe enough that multiple treatments can be combined depending on the individual.
Step 1
Treat sinus pressure, headache and throat soreness with an over-the-counter pain reliever. These medications can often be repeated every four, six or eight hours depending on the dose.
Step 2
Sip warm tea to increase your fluid intake as well as soothe the throat. Add honey to taste as it can coat a sore throat. In addition to tea, drink plenty of fluids to thin mucus and maintain hydration. When a fever accompanies a cold it is especially important to replenish fluids by drinking throughout the day.
Step 3
Gargle with 1 Tbs. of baking soda mixed with 1 C. of warm water to soothe a sore throat. This remedy can also help fight bad breath from sinus drainage.
Step 4
Treat sinus congestion and nasal irritation with saline nasal spray. This remedy can be used as often as necessary because it is free of medications. The saline helps loosen mucus and hydrate the lining of the nose. Dry air can further irritate the nose and sinuses. Saline sprays can also help get irritants, such as those causing the illness, out of the nose. A humidifier can be run at night or wherever you spend most of your day if you find yourself having a dry, bloody nose or a dry cough.
Tips and Warnings
- Recovering from a cold requires that you eat and drink well. When cold symptoms make eating difficult, try clear broth soups. This home remedy does have healing properties according to the Mayo Clinic.
Things You'll Need
- Pain reliever
- Tea
- Honey
- Baking soda
- Water
- Saline nasal spray
- Humidifier
