It always seems that right when our lives become busier than ever is the time that we get sick. From the coughing and scratchy throat, to the stuffy nose, headaches, and sleepless nights, it just doesn’t appear that we can get better fast enough. Add to that the foggy and often grotesque feeling that happens after loading up on all the over-the-counter “quick-fixes”, and we feel more miserable than ever.
Well don’t fret any longer, here is a list of 7 natural remedies that REALLY work and will help you feel better in no time. Best of all, you won’t have to deal with any crummy side-effects after downing a cocktail of pills that you thought would put you out of your misery.
- 1.) Ginger Tea: Ginger has both antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties which can soothe multiple symptoms including sore-throats, stomachaches, and headaches. All you have to do is slice a 1 inch piece of ginger root into thin disks and boil in water for 5-10 minutes. The longer you let it steep, the more potent the tea will become. If you have a sore-throat, or want to add some sweetness, add a little bit of honey. They honey will coat your throat while creating an even tastier concoction.2.) Coconut Oil: Not just for culinary purposes, coconut oil can be used to hydrate dry, chapped skin and to soothe the irritation that comes from blowing your nose every 2 minutes. Just dab a little under your nose and let the soothing begin.3.) Turmeric Gargle: Most of you have probably heard of gargling with salt water to relieve your sore throat. The salt shrinks swollen glands. However, if you add turmeric to the mix (the yellow spice that gives curry its color), you will get an additional anti-inflammatory benefit. Sprinkle equal parts salt and turmeric in warm water and gargle.
4.) Salt-water Nasal Spray: Just as salt water can help reduce inflammation in your throat, it can do the same for your nose. To help the “I can’t breathe” feeling subside, buy a pure Salt-water Nasal Spray and use every couple hours. The great thing about this product is it is non-addicting, so you can spray away. Typical nasal sprays have medicine in them and are extremely habit-forming, causing the stuffiness to become worse.5.) Eucalyptus Oil: Eucalyptus Oil (also known as Melaleuca Oil and used in a vast array of products), is a great remedy to help combat stuffy-noses and to soothe chest congestion. Mix a little bit with warm water, dip a wash cloth in it, and then place under your nose to help soothe and moisten simultaneously. You can also dab the oil directly onto the skin surrounding your nostrils, or onto your chest, for a more invigorating feeling.6.) Melatonin: One of the worst parts about being sick is the fact that you are so tired, yet can’t seem to get a good night’s rest. Melatonin is here to help. A natural hormone found in all mammals, melatonin helps to regulate the body’s normal sleep cycle. Proven to help you fall asleep faster, melatonin allows your body to get the sleep it needs when you are under the weather.7.) Water: Don’t discount the power of this mighty beverage. When you are sick, your body is working on overdrive to clear out your system of unwanted pathogens. Drinking water will help rehydrate your body and flush these suckers out. Drink at least 8 glasses a day – the more the better. Adding lemon juice to the mix will help fight these pathogens even further, so squeeze a little in your water for an additional boost. Mint is another taste enhancer which is also known to combat nausea, so if this is your issue, add some mint to your water as well.