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Old-Time Cold Remedies

There is nothing common about the common cold, when a cough may lead to a runny nose and a sneeze may lead to a headache. The multitudes and discomfort of the symptoms may be so dizzying that it is entirely too easy to go running for the medicine cabinet or neighborhood pharmacy when the symptoms start to intensify. Sometimes, the best remedies for a cold are the old-time, all-natural ones that can be found in your own home--and without the buzz and chemical aftertaste that most medicines provide.

  1. Chamomile Tea

    • Nothing says old-fashioned cold remedy like a hot, steaming cup of chamomile tea. A doctor may not find medicinal proof of its effectiveness, but chamomile tea drinkers will swear to its power to help you sleep and rest. Add a little cayenne pepper to further warm you up. Cayenne pepper will also help open up your sinus passages and reinforce your immune system.

    Honey and Lemons

    • Sometimes in life, you have to take the sour with the sweet. If you have a sore throat and a cough that just will not go away, try adding a tablespoon of honey with a glass of hot water to lubricate your irritated throat. Throw in some lemon juice and have a healing party. The vitamin C in lemons helps your immune system get back on track.

    Garlic

    • Garlic helps against vampires, but it is even more effective on colds. Garlic contains allicin, which is known for its antibacterial prowess and gives garlic its intense taste, but you have to crush garlic to activate it. Add some chopped garlic to a bowl of hot chicken soup and, with a little bad breath, you may be well on your way to good health. If garlic is too strong for you, try onions instead. They share the same healing qualities.

    Steam

    • If your refrigerator or pantry is bare, take heart. Simply boil some water in a pot, grab a towel to drape over your head and lean over the pot for a few minutes. The steam produced by boiling water helps open constricted nasal passages and the water helps hydrate irritated membranes you need to breathe. Sprinkle in some pepper to help you sneeze as this will help expel excess mucus from your nose. Just remember to cover your mouth when you sneeze, please.

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