We are susceptible to the common cold, and with the changing season, our running nose, itchy throat, and headache say it all. No matter how hard we try to boost our immune system, we are always held hostage to the common cold.

Your doctor will prescribe you a medicine over 3–5 days, and you know this cold will be with you for at least a week. Sometimes doing away with a doctor and trying home remedies for a common cold might be a good idea. We will answer all your queries about a common cold and tell you ten simple ways to get rid of the cold in just one day.

Is it Bad to Get a Cold?

Getting a cold or a cough is not always bad because these symptoms are just part of our body’s natural healing process. All these are indications that our body is battling any foreign intrusion. Fever, cough and running nose is just a defense mechanism of our body. So, if you have fever, cold, or cough occasionally, it’s natural, and these can be cured overnight with some simple home remedies. 

What are the Common Reasons for Cold?

A common cold is an infection of the upper respiratory tract. If you think the cause of the illness is cold weather, then you are wrong. Various kinds of viruses, bacteria, or dust mites cause the disease. Cold is common in winter due to people’s tendency to remain indoors; indoor air is dry, dries up the nasal passages causing infection. Cold viruses thrive in low humid conditions. It is always better to see a doctor if your cold does not go away or have a fever. Here are ten ways to get rid of cold in just one day.

Ten Ways to Get Rid of Cold in One Day

Saline Water Gargle

Research proves that saline water gargle is an effective way to cure a sore throat. If you feel a sore throat or start having a runny nose, gargle with warm water with half a teaspoon of salt in it. Saline water is an excellent remedy to fight infections early; infection is less likely to spread to an upper respiratory tract infection. Gargle every two hours, and before going to bed, you will beat the cold by morning.

Cinnamon Powder and Honey

Mix equal parts of honey into cinnamon powder and make a paste. Consume one spoon of this paste every hour. Cinnamon has anti-inflammatory properties, whereas pure honey is a recommended cough remedy for children. Their combination will not only relieve you of cold, but you will find your cough is much better.

Try Chicken Soup

Undoubtedly a bowl of chicken soup or some hot liquid is delightful and soothing when we have a cold. Chicken soup is rich in cysteine, a powerful antioxidant that has active counter contagion properties. Proteins and minerals found in white chicken meat are proven immunity boosters, while the salt and spices cure your throat. Try a hot bowl of chicken broth for dinner, and you will be relieved of the cold by morning.

Apple Cider Vinegar

Apple cider vinegar has many uses, from removing acne to boosting immunity and even curing stomach problems. Apple cider vinegar is also a great therapy to cure the common cold and sore throat. Take a sip of apple cider vinegar when catching a cold; by morning, the cold will be gone.

Get Enough Sleep

Most of us are deprived of proper sleep due to our hectic lifestyle, and nowadays, adequate sleep seems like a bonus paycheck. Getting sufficient sleep is not only vital for sound mental health but to boost your immunity as well. When we sleep, our immune system is enhanced, strengthening the body to combat infections. If you are catching a cold, take adequate rest, sleep enough and recover faster.

Try Vitamin C and Zinc Supplements

Many people suggest daily vitamin C supplements help boost your immunity system. Similarly, zinc supplements also work well with the common cold. Vitamin C and zinc are proven cures of viruses and flu that cause the common cold. A study conducted on several sick people showed that vitamin C and zinc supplements reduced the symptoms compared to those given placebos. Even our immune system relies on vitamin C and zinc to combat infections. But remember, too much good is also wrong; too much zinc can harm your immunity, and too much vitamin C may irritate your throat.

Echinacea

Research shows that extracts of echinacea affect the immune system of your body against germs. Echinacea is an herbal supplement extracted from coneflower; this is available in herbal tea, powdered extracts, and tablets. Daily usage of echinacea increases the number of white blood cells in the human body. The use of echinacea showed instant relief from cough and the common cold. In some cases, there might be side effects like vomiting or diarrhea; it is always better to consult your doctor before continuing. 

Probiotic Drinks

Probiotics contain good bacteria, which is called lactobacillus. Studies show that probiotic drinks can significantly reduce the cold’s effect and duration when the symptoms are just evolving. There are various kinds of probiotic products, so check the label or consult before you buy.

Drink Lots of Fluids

It is always good to stay hydrated. A hydrated body not only helps in digestion but also flushes out toxins from your body. Drinking plenty of fluids will help you get rid of the cold. Drink hot fluids, tea, soup, and other liquids to keep yourself hydrated. Hot beverages will open up your nasal congestion and tightening of the chest. It would be best to avoid alcohol and caffeine; these liquids will dehydrate your body and hinder your sleep.

Facial Steam

When you are down with a common cold, a hot shower is a soothing therapy, and there is a reason behind it. Steam helps to clear the mucus and congestion in your nasal channels. Moisture will cure your common cold in no time. Add a little Vicks or eucalyptus oil in hot water and take facial steam covering your head with a towel; you will feel better.

Conclusion 

With the first symptom of a common cold, we feel restless and want the illness to go away as soon as possible. If you take vitamin C and zinc regularly, it will keep your immunity level high. Studies prove that remedies like echinacea, probiotic drinks, and honey prevents and cures a common cold. One of the best ways to fix a common cold is to get lots of sleep. However, if symptoms are prolonged with fever, see a doctor as soon as possible.