Herbal treatment for colds
Viruses are caused by a common cold, so antibiotics cannot be used for treatment. But some herbs can be used that aim to reduce the severity of symptoms associated with a cold or reduce the duration of infection. In the following, we will learn about some of these herbs:
Treating the common cold with herbs: What is the truth about it?
Many herbs offer potential benefits in treating colds, but you should consult your doctor before using any of these herbs. Among these herbs are:
1. Ginger
Ginger is one of the herbal remedies for colds. Ginger contains many compounds such as gingerols and schools. These compounds provide anti-inflammatory properties that reduce the severity of cold symptoms, such as sore throat, and nausea.
Ginger can be used to treat colds by drinking a cup of boiling water containing thin slices of ginger.
2. Astragalus
Astragalus can be used as one of the herbal remedies for colds; Astragalus contains many antioxidant and antiviral properties, and it also works to enhance the ability of the immune system to fight various infections.
The benefits of astragalus can be taken advantage of by drinking asparagus tea or consuming dietary supplements containing extracts of this herb.
3. Ginseng
Ginseng is one of the herbal remedies for colds. Because it contains polysaccharides and ginsenosides that help reduce the severity of cold symptoms and reduce the duration of colds.
Ginseng can be used to treat colds by eating it in its raw form or drinking ginseng tea.
4. Elderberry
Elderberry contains anthocyanins that boost the immune system and fight viral infections. Elderberries can be used as a way to treat colds with herbs by eating them alone or using them in desserts.
5. Mint
Mint can be used as a herbal remedy for colds. It contains menthol, which has the ability to fight the pain associated with colds and nasal congestion, making it easier to breathe during a cold.
Menthol can be used by inhaling water vapor that contains menthol oil or by applying it to the pillow where the patient sleeps at night.
Treating colds with other natural methods
In addition to herbal remedies for colds, many other natural ways help with treatment, such as:
- Hydration: Moisturizing the body from the inside is an important step in treating colds, like drinking water, juices and soups help to get rid of nasal congestion.
- Gargling: Gargling with a saline solution that consists of half a teaspoon of salt dissolved in 240 milliliters of warm water helps relieve sore throat.
- Consumption of honey: Honey helps to get rid of sore throat, and it can be taken with a spoon or dissolved in a cup of tea.
- Consumption of citrus: Citrus contains vitamin C, which helps to raise the body's immunity and get rid of phlegm, and citrus can be taken alone or add lemon juice to a cup of warm tea.
When should you visit a doctor?
Some cases may accompany the common cold and require a visit to the doctor. Among these cases are:
- Symptoms persist for more than 10 days despite the use of herbal and other natural methods of treating colds.
- The presence of chronic diseases that the patient suffers from.
- pregnancy.
- Symptoms of the common cold appear in persons over 65 years of age.
- Symptoms of the common cold appear in infants under the age of 3 months.