5 Ways to Treat a Winter Cold

Winter is here and so is a nagging cold. Aside from taking an over the counter medication, there are ways to treat a winter cold right at home.

Here are some ways we like to treat a winter cold in our house.

1. Tea and Honey.

I don’t know what it is about a steaming cup of tea swirled with a spoonful of honey, but it can always make me feel a tiny bit better when I have a cold. Studies show that honey is an effective cough suppressant, especially when it is had in a warm liquid. The steam from the tea can relieve stuffiness and congestion, and the warmth is soothing on a sore throat.

Thieves tea is my go-to for coughs, stuffiness, and sore throats.

2. Rest.

Whenever you start feeling under the weather, take a step back and don’t overdo it. A lack of sleep will weaken your immune system and a tiny winter cold can turn into something bigger than you.

3. Lemon, Lavender, and Peppermint.

One of my favorite essential oil combinations is lemon, lavender, and peppermint. All three oils, when diffused, promote clean breathing and a healthy immune response. I like to think they mimic a natural antihistamine, which is totally needed if you have a cold (or allergies). Lemon essential oil has a high vitamin content, lavender is gentle and calming, and peppermint can be an expectorant. I put a few drops of each in a vegetable capsule and take them with a large glass of water.

4. Vitamin C.

Apparently, vitamin C is not going to help you get rid of a winter cold – the trick is to get your daily fix of Vitamin C, which will keep your body strong and healthy so you don’t catch a cold. Vitamin C is found naturally in fruits and vegetables and in my favorite little powder – Emergen-C. Loading up on orange juice and high concentrations of Vitamin C after you’re already sick isn’t going to help – so remember to take a multivitamin with it already in it, or just include it in your diet.

5. Hydrate.

Ever since I left home, my mom’s first bit of advice when I am feeling under the weather is to “make sure you drink plenty of fluids!” Teas, broths, and most importantly – water – will not only keep you hydrated, but also help prevent/control vomiting or nausea. Dehydration can be a tricky beast, especially when you are sick, that leads to fevers, puke, or even a trip to the ER. Make sure you always follow your Mom’s orders even when you aren’t battling an illness. 

Here are some more tips for hydration.

If you end up with a lovely winter cold, make sure you stock up on tissues, hand sanitizer, and LOTS of fluids. Catch up on your DVR and don’t forget to take a nap!