Beat a cold, the natural way

In the midst of the inevitable cold and flu season, it is easy to get carried away with piling up our bodies with drugs, antibiotics, cough syrup and painkillers in an attempt to feel better. If you want to beat a cold naturally, follow my tips and you’ll be back to your full health in no time!

In the meantime: put your feet up, get an extra blanket, drink 2-3 litres of water a day, hug a hot water bottle and sip a tea. Rest is the most important element when you’re under the weather, so get plenty!

Echinacea

Why: This is a wonder! I take it 4 times a day in the depths of a cold, it is the only thing I trust to get me back on my feet again.

How: Add 15-20 drops to some water/juice and knock it back like a shot. This stuff is a power house, I cannot be without it.

Lemon, ginger, honey

Why: A winning tea combination. It’s like medicine with “a spoonful of sugar,” a la Mary Poppins. The honey soothes achey throats, while the ginger and lemon boost your immune system and kick up the heat in your body.

How: Squeeze half a lemon into boiling water, add 1cm chopped fresh ginger to a tea strainer. Complete with a heaped spoon of local honey, organic if you can get your hands on it.

Soup

Why: Soup is so comforting for the soul. It is easy to digest, easy to make, packed with nutrients and bound to make you feel better. Pumpkin soup is a personal favourite, but throw in any veggies you have lying around.

Tip: add garlic and turmeric, these will help your body fight the cold and eliminate toxins and nasty bacteria. It’s also good to avoid dairy if you are fighting a cold, as this can increase mucus secretions.

Salt and water gargle

Why: Saline solution gargle rinses out your throat, taking down any inflammation or redness and cleaning the area. I do this especially in the morning time when I wake up with a sore throat and it works a treat at reducing pain.

How: 1 teaspoon sea salt dissolved in boiled water (wait until it is cool enough to drink). Gargle at the back of the throat for 30 seconds, then spit out. Repeat as necessary. Careful not to swallow: it tastes nasty and can make you feel ill.

Facial steam

Why: This can help relieve the symptoms of congestion and blocked sinuses. I added lavender essential oil to mine, but eucalyptus would be better if you have it. The steam works really well to loosen up any pressure, which relieves headaches and pain around the nose. Bonus: it’s great for your skin, too! Rinse your face with cool water after and pat dry with a clean towel.

How: Fill a basin or sink with boiling water, add a few drops of your essential oil and breathe in the steam through your nose for 5 minutes. Keep your head covered with a towel to catch all of the steam. Keep some tissues on hand, as your nose will start to run!