How to Relieve Cold Symptoms without Medication

Nearly everyone gets a cold at some point. There are many over-the-counter options to relieve cold symptoms, but you may prefer to limit your use of these. Concerns about side effects or the expense of such medications can lead you to choose tried-and-true home remedies instead. Here are a few options.

Things You'll Need

• Saline drops
• Humidifier
• 1 to 3 drops eucalyptus oil
• 1 tsp. honey

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Moisture is a simple and easy-to-come by solution to unpleasant cold symptoms.

  Saline drops in the nose can relieve sinus congestion and steam in a bedroom can help prevent it. Use a commercial humidifier over night or throughout the day as needed to relieve symptoms. Moisture in the air also has been shown to reduce the transfer of flu germs and may help keep other household members from catching the illness.

• 2

  A drop or two of eucalyptus oil on your pajamas, just under your chin, will relieve a stuffy nose and promote relaxation, allowing you to get the sleep that will help you recover faster.

• 3

  Try a teaspoon of honey to relieve a sore throat. A spoonful of honey works as well as over-the-counter cough medicine to suppress a cough long enough to help you sleep.