The nose, whether running or clogged, causes deep discomfort. It causes headache, sore throat and many chest problems. The walls of the respiratory track are inflamed and produce lots of mucus. If cold occurs again and again, it is an indication of a weak immune system.

It is always better to take preventive measures against cold. A few simple vegetables and herbs strengthen the immune system. They not only cure the cold but keep it at bay if taken regularly.

Cold is a contagious disease and spreads fast. Coughing, sneezing or physical contact pass on the virus to those who come in contact with the patient.

Garlic

The medicinal value of garlic has been recognized for centuries across many civilizations including the Egyptian and Roman civilizations. Garlic contains many helpful compounds including allicin, one of the most potent antibiotics. Combined with Echinacea, garlic works wonders in fighting infections.

Onion

A vegetable species close to garlic in characteristics, onion has almost the same anti-bacterial virtues as garlic. Its regular intake in daily dishes strengthens the immune system.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is a great cure against the colds as it helps the body to fight infection. The best sources of Vitamin C are citrus fruits especially orange, pineapple, seedless grapes, lots of fresh ginger, banana, pink grapes and lemon.

Ginger

Ginger is a powerful antibacterial herb. It contains nearly a dozen antiviral compounds. Ginger is a pain reliever, antiseptic and anti-oxidant. It has both preventive and curative qualities against colds. Ginger can be taken in vegetable dishes, tea, with lemon in warm water and with fruits.

Liquorice

Liquorice is a great remedy to relieve the chest and throat complaints. It has been used for centuries to treat asthma, bronchitis, throat problems, colds and coughs. Liquorice contains anti-viral ingredients and fights obdurate coughs and lung infections.

Peppermint

Peppermint is a powerful expectorant in the treatment of bronchitis, colds and flu. It causes perspiration and cools the body. It relieves the body pains and headache. It is a soothing decongestant and if inhaled, it clears the blocked sinuses.

Yarrow

Yarrow has anti-inflammatory virtues and hot yarrow tea promotes perspiration which relieves colds, coughs, flu and fevers. Taken in combination with elderflower and peppermint it works very effectively.

Echinacea

An important and time tested herb for cold is Echinacea which has been used by the American Indian for centuries. Echinacea is found in varied species in most countries of the world. Its intake increases the level of properdin, a chemical that activates the part of the immune system that strengthens the defense against the cold virus and bacteria. The anti-bacterial qualities of Echinacea fight effectively against bacterial infections.

Echinacea is also a blood purifier and its sweeps away the dead cells and other debris from the lymphatic system and dispatches white blood cells to fight infectious viruses. If you apprehend cold take Echinacea tincture.

Warm Salt Water

A very easy and simple recipe involves the use of warm salt water to clear the stuffy nose. It also eliminates virus particles and bacteria from the nose.

Mix ¼ teaspoonful salt and the same quantity of baking soda in 8 ounces of warm water. Take a bulb syringe to squirt water into the nose. Apply one finger on the other nostril to keep it closed by applying a little pressure on it while squirting the salt mixture into the other nostril. Allow it to drain and rinse. Next do the same with the other nostril. Repeat this process three or four times.

Drink plenty of liquids such as water, fruit juices and soups during the cold to offset the loss of fluids through cold. Water is important to flush away the toxins from your elimination systems.